Mastering Executive Functions: Proven Strategies to Overcome Chronic Disorganization

Posted by Erica Warren on Aug 25, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us struggle with chronic disorganization. Whether it’s losing your keys, spending too much time looking for important documents, or feeling overwhelmed by clutter, disorganization can take a significant toll on our daily lives. As someone who has dedicated my career to understanding the mind and helping others improve their executive functioning, I’ve learned that organization isn't just about neatness—it's about effectiveness.

Girl on messy couch struggling with disorganization

In a recent episode of the Executive Functioning Brain Trainer Podcast, I had the pleasure of discussing strategies to help the chronically disorganized find a new way of being. Here’s a breakdown of our conversation and some practical tips to get you started on your journey to a more organized life.

Understanding Chronic Disorganization

Before we explore strategies, it’s important to understand what chronic disorganization looks like. Chronic disorganization occurs when your space and belongings are in such disarray that it begins to impact your ability to function effectively. You might struggle to find things when you need them, feel overwhelmed by your environment, or waste precious time trying to get organized.

However, the key to overcoming this challenge isn't about becoming perfectly organized. Instead, it’s about finding systems that work for you—systems that make it easier for you to access what you need, when you need it.

The Reframe: From Efficiency to Effectiveness

One of the most important shifts in mindset when tackling disorganization is to focus on being effective rather than efficient. Often, organizational systems are designed by naturally organized people and work well for them. But for those of us who think differently—whether due to neurodiversity, creativity, or just personal preference—these systems might not fit.

Think of finding the right organizational system like finding a pair of shoes that fits perfectly. Just because one system hasn’t worked for you in the past doesn’t mean there isn’t a better fit out there. It’s all about finding a method that aligns with how your brain works.

Personalizing Your Organizational System

Everyone processes information differently. Some people are visual, needing to see things laid out clearly. Others are auditory, remembering what they hear better than what they see. There are also those who are kinesthetic, who need to move and interact with their environment to process information effectively.

In our discussion, we emphasized the importance of recognizing your personal processing style. For example, if you’re someone who processes information best by interacting with others, organizing your space with a friend or family member might make the task feel easier and more enjoyable. The goal is to match your organizational approach to your natural processing style.

Practical Strategies for Getting Organized

Now that we’ve covered the mindset shift, let’s explore some practical strategies that can help you get organized:

1. The KonMari Method

The KonMari Method, developed by Marie Kondo, is a well-known approach to decluttering that emphasizes tidying by category rather than by room. This method is particularly popular because it combines practical steps with a mindful, joy-focused approach to organizing your space.

Key Steps:
1. Commit to Tidying Up: Start by making a commitment to declutter your entire space in one go, rather than tackling one room at a time.
2. Visualize Your Ideal Lifestyle: Spend time envisioning how you want your space to look and feel.
3. Tidy by Category: Follow a specific order—clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous, and sentimental items.
4. The Joy Check: Hold each item and ask, "Does this spark joy?" If not, it’s time to let it go.
5. Organize and Store: Arrange items in a way that is both accessible and visually pleasing.
Additional Resources:
- Marie Kondo’s Official Website - Explore Marie Kondo’s resources, books, and courses on her method.
- The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up - Marie Kondo’s bestselling book that introduced the world to the KonMari Method.

2. The Four-Box Method

The Four-Box Method is a straightforward approach to decluttering that involves sorting items into four categories: Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Relocate. This method is highly effective for making quick decisions and systematically organizing your space.

Key Steps:
1. Prepare Your Boxes: Label four boxes or bins—Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Relocate.
2. Tackle One Area at a Time: Choose a specific area or category and start sorting.
3. Make Quick Decisions: As you pick up each item, decide which box it belongs in.
4. Follow Through: Dispose of trash, donate or sell items, relocate what belongs elsewhere, and organize what you’re keeping.
Additional Resources:
- Becoming Minimalist - A blog dedicated to simplifying life, including practical decluttering tips.

3. The 2020 Rule

The 2020 Rule, popularized by minimalists, suggests that if you can replace an item for less than $20 and in less than 20 minutes, it’s time to let it go. This rule helps reduce attachment to items that are inexpensive and easily replaceable, thus freeing up space for more important things.

Key Steps:
1. Identify Items: Consider items you are hesitating to discard.
2. Apply the 2020 Rule: If the item can be replaced easily and inexpensively, let it go.
3. Focus on Impact: Keep items that have a significant impact on your daily life.
Additional Resources:
- The Minimalists’ Blog - Dive into articles and resources that promote minimalist living.
- Zen Habits - A blog by Leo Babauta that offers advice on minimalism, simplicity, and mindfulness.

4. Swedish Death Cleaning

Swedish Death Cleaning is a method that involves decluttering with the intention of easing the burden on loved ones after you’re gone. It’s a reflective approach that encourages you to clear out unnecessary items over time, passing on meaningful belongings to others.

Key Steps:
1. Reflect: Consider what items are truly necessary and meaningful in your life.
2. Declutter Gradually: Focus on one area or category at a time, removing unnecessary items.
3. Gift or Donate: Pass on items that might be useful or meaningful to others.
4. Document Memories: Consider documenting sentimental items in a journal or photos before letting them go.
Additional Resources:
- The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning - A book by Margareta Magnusson that delves into the concept of death cleaning.

5. The Minimalist Game

The Minimalist Game turns decluttering into a daily challenge, where you get rid of a number of items corresponding to the day of the month. This approach gamifies the process, making it more engaging and motivating.

Key Steps:
1. Start Small: Begin with one item on the first day, two items on the second day, and so forth.
2. Involve Others: Turn it into a challenge with family or friends to stay motivated.
3. Reflect on Progress: At the end of the month, evaluate how the process has impacted your life.
Additional Resources:
- The Minimalists’ 30-Day Minimalism Game - Official rules and tips for the minimalist game.
- No Sidebar - A blog that explores minimalist living, with tips and stories for simplifying your life.

Cognitive Flexibility: The Secret to Long-Term Success

Finally, it’s important to cultivate cognitive flexibility—the ability to shift your mindset and approach challenges from different angles. For instance, if organizing makes you anxious, try reframing it as an exciting opportunity to create a space you love. Being flexible in your thinking can help you move past obstacles and find solutions that work for you.

In conclusion, getting organized isn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold—it’s about finding what works for you. By understanding your unique processing style, shifting your focus from efficiency to effectiveness, and employing practical strategies that align with your needs, you can create an environment that supports your goals and brings you joy.

Remember, the journey to organization is just that—a journey. Take it one step at a time, celebrate your victories, and most importantly, make it work for you.

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren

Dr. Erica Warren is the author, illustrator, and publisher of multisensory educational materials at Good Sensory Learning. She is also the director of Learning to Learn and Learning Specialist Courses.