Embracing Neurodiversity in the Face of Clutter: The Myth of “Just Get Organised”

Clutter can feel overwhelming for anyone, but for neurodiverse individuals, it often presents unique challenges. Sensory sensitivities, executive functioning differences, and varied ways of processing information can make traditional organising methods ineffective or even stressful. Understanding how neurodiversity intersects with clutter is key to creating environments that support well-being and productivity.

Too many tabs open? That’s not a character flaw. That’s a nervous system trying to cope.

As a society, we talk about clutter as if it’s a simple motivation problem. Often we reflect this on ourselves as a personal failing.

“I just need to be more disciplined.”

“I just need to get organised.”

“I should try harder.”

But for many people, clutter isn’t about laziness at all. It’s about how your brain is wired. Neurodiversity — including ADHD, OCD, and autism spectrum conditions — can significantly shape the way we relate to our spaces. And when we understand that, something powerful happens: shame reduces.

Let’s gently unpack this.

OCD: When Order Feels Urgent

Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as “liking things neat.” In reality, it involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours aimed at reducing anxiety.

For some people, this can show up as perfectionism around order. The home doesn’t just need to be tidy — it needs to feel right. And if it doesn’t, the nervous system stays on high alert.

Ironically, this can lead to paralysis. If the cupboard can’t be organised perfectly, it may not be organised at all. The all-or-nothing cycle keeps overwhelm alive.

Lazy minimalism gently disrupts this by lowering the bar. Done is better than perfect. Functional beats flawless.

ADHD: The Land of Half-Finished Everything

ADHD brains are interest-driven, not importance-driven. Executive functioning — planning, sequencing, finishing — can be harder.

That’s why you might have:

• Three half-decluttered drawers

• A pile sorted into categories… but never put away

• Five “systems” started and abandoned

It’s not lack of care. It’s dopamine.

ADHD thrives on novelty, which means starting feels exciting — finishing does not. Large projects can quickly become overwhelming because they require sustained attention and delayed reward.

This is why 5–15 minutes a day works. Short bursts. Visible wins. No marathon organising sessions required.

ASD: Black-and-White Thinking and Sensory Load

Autistic individuals may experience strong preferences for predictability and order. Black-and-white thinking can make decision-making difficult:

• Keep it or get rid of it?

• Use it daily or never?

• Perfect solution or total failure?

Add sensory sensitivity into the mix — visual clutter, noise, textures — and the nervous system can become overloaded quickly. When your brain processes more sensory data than average, clutter isn’t neutral. It’s exhausting.

Gentle simplification reduces cognitive and sensory load. Fewer items mean fewer micro-decisions. Fewer visual stimuli. More calm.

Here is the truth:

**********Clutter is rarely about moral failure.*******

It’s often about executive function, anxiety regulation, sensory processing, and perfectionism.

The goal isn’t to become someone else. It’s to work with your brain instead of against it.

At The Lazy Minimalist, I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all systems or Pinterest-perfect homes. I believe in practical, evidence-informed approaches that respect different brains, different energy levels, and different nervous systems. Whether you thrive on structure, need short bursts of momentum, or feel easily overwhelmed by sensory input, there is a gentler way forward. I can tailor make packages that support your strengths rather that trying to control your weaknesses.

Because sometimes the mess isn’t laziness.

Sometimes it’s wiring.

And wiring deserves compassion, not criticism.