Taming the 'Doom Bags': An ADHD Organizer's Guide:
A 'doom bag' or 'doom box' is a container filled with miscellaneous items that have been put away for later sorting or dealing with. They are often a result of procrastination, time blindness, or executive dysfunction. Didn't Organize Only Moved- (DOOM)
Do you find yourself constantly surrounded by "doom bags" or "doom boxes"? You know, those random bags and boxes filled with miscellaneous items that you shove into a closet or under the bed, promising to sort through them "later"? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. This is a common struggle, particularly for those with ADHD.
Why ADHD and "Doom Bags" Go Hand-in-Hand
People with ADHD often struggle with:
Executive function: This makes it difficult to plan, organize, and complete tasks, including sorting through piles of stuff.
Time blindness: Leading to procrastination and a sense that there's "always enough time later" to deal with the clutter.
Emotional dysregulation: Clutter can feel overwhelming, leading to avoidance and further procrastination.
Hyper-focus: This can make it hard to switch between tasks, like putting things away in their proper places instead of tossing them in a bag.
These challenges contribute to the creation of "doom bags" as a way to quickly deal with clutter and move on to something more immediately gratifying.
Turning "Doom Bags" into Opportunities
While "doom bags" can be a symptom of ADHD-related challenges, they can also be reframed as an opportunity for organization and self-discovery. Here's how:
Acknowledge and Accept: Don't beat yourself up about having "doom bags." Recognizing them is the first step towards tackling them.
Break it Down: Instead of facing a mountain of "doom," schedule short, manageable sessions to sort through one bag or box at a time. Use a timer to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Categorize and Conquer: As you sort, create categories for items: keep, donate, discard, and relocate. This helps you make quick decisions and see progress.
Find a Home: Once you've sorted, ensure everything has a designated place. This prevents future "doom bag" formation.
The "One-In, One-Out" Rule: To prevent future clutter build-up, for every new item you bring in, commit to getting rid of something similar.
Embrace Imperfection: Don't aim for perfection. Focus on progress, not perfection. Any step towards decluttering is a win.
Mindful Consumption: Before purchasing something new, ask yourself if you truly need it and where you'll keep it. This helps prevent future clutter and "doom bags."
Turning "Doom Bags" to Your Advantage
Believe it or not, "doom bags" can actually be useful:
Time Capsules: They can offer a glimpse into your past interests and priorities.
Creativity Boosters: You might rediscover forgotten items that spark new ideas or projects.
Starting Point: They provide a concrete starting point for decluttering and organizing.
Remember, you're not alone in this! Many people with ADHD struggle with "doom bags." By understanding the reasons behind them and implementing these strategies, you can take control of your clutter and transform those "doom bags" into opportunities for a more organized and fulfilling life.
Rule:
Once you have successfully reduced the number of doom bags and have them under control, designate a specific container as a "doom basket." This basket serves as a temporary holding area for items that don't have an immediate home. However, once the basket is full, it becomes a priority to sort through its contents and find permanent solutions for each item. Make an appointment with yourself to do this. Mark it on your calendar and set aside the time then set a timer to help keep yourself on track.
By implementing this rule, you can prevent new doom bags from forming while still having a designated space for those occasional overflow items.
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