Watch or Listen to the Full Interview

If you want to hear the full conversation with Esmeralda, check it out on The Vibe With Ky Podcast here:

Now, let’s talk about ADHD and clutter.

Meet Esmeralda: The ADHD-Friendly Organizer

Esmeralda is the founder of Get Neat Now, a professional organizing company specializing in ADHD-friendly strategies. She’s also a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, giving her a unique perspective on how to break down tasks for those who struggle with executive function challenges.

You can find Esmeralda and her expert advice here:

Why ADHD Makes Organization So Difficult

ADHD isn’t just about being easily distracted. It affects executive function, which impacts:

  • Starting and finishing tasks
  • Time management (time blindness)
  • Memory (out of sight, out of mind)
  • Letting go of clutter (emotional attachment to objects)
  • Task switching and maintaining order

Understanding these struggles is key to finding solutions that actually work.

ADHD-Friendly Organizing Tips from Esmeralda

1. Start Small and Tackle the Most Overwhelming Area First

Trying to clean everything at once is a recipe for burnout. Instead, focus on the space that stresses you out the most—whether that’s your desk, closet, or kitchen counter.

2. Use Micro-Organization Techniques

Instead of organizing an entire room, break it into micro-tasks:

  • Sort just your cups before moving on to plates.
  • Organize one shelf instead of tackling the whole closet.
  • Focus on a single junk drawer instead of your entire kitchen.

3. The Clutter Basket Method

For those random items that don’t have a home, use a clutter basket. This keeps your space tidy without forcing you to immediately find a permanent place for everything. Once a week, go through the basket and organize what’s inside.

4. Visibility is Key

ADHD brains often suffer from “out of sight, out of mind” syndrome. If you tend to forget about things once they’re put away, try:

  • Using clear storage bins
  • Keeping daily essentials on open shelves
  • Labeling sections to avoid misplacing important items

5. Body Doubling for Accountability

Body doubling means having someone present while you work. This could be a friend, a family member, or even a virtual organizer like Esmeralda. Having another person around can help keep you focused and make organizing feel less overwhelming.

Managing Emotional Attachment to Clutter

One of the hardest parts of decluttering with ADHD is letting go of things. Esmeralda recommends keeping a Memory Box—a designated space for sentimental items. This allows you to honor your memories without keeping everything scattered throughout your home.

Digital Clutter Matters Too

If your inbox is overflowing or your desktop is covered in files, digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical mess. Here’s how to manage it:

  • Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails
  • Create a “Later” folder for messages that need attention
  • Use a single cloud storage system to keep digital files organized

5 Key Takeaways From This Blog

  1. Start small—focus on one cluttered space at a time.
  2. Break tasks into micro-steps—don’t try to do everything at once.
  3. Use a clutter basket to keep messes contained.
  4. Keep things visible—clear storage and labels help prevent forgetfulness.
  5. Try body doubling—having someone nearby can boost focus.

FAQ: ADHD & Organization

Q: How can I stay organized when I lose interest quickly?
A: Keep your system flexible and engaging. Switch up methods if something stops working.

Q: I don’t have time to organize. What do I do?
A: Use 5-minute decluttering sprints. Set a timer and focus on one small area.

Q: What if my family doesn’t help keep things tidy?
A: Establish clear household organization habits and assign manageable tasks to each person.

Q: Should I go minimalist?
A: Not necessarily! Find a balance that works for you—functionality matters more than aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve struggled to stay organized with ADHD, you’re not alone. The key is finding realistic, ADHD-friendly strategies that work for you. Whether that’s using micro-organization, body doubling, or keeping a clutter basket, small changes can make a big difference.

And if you need expert guidance, reach out to Esmeralda for personalized organizing solutions.

Much love. Good vibes. – Ky