Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

Heather Tingle

In this podcast, Heather will teach you what really works, and what doesn't, to successfully declutter your home - as when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic, it isn't just a case of hiring a skip and having a big sort out - it's not that easy!

Heather is an expert in working with families that live in chaos, and all the challenges that brings. She is Autistic and has ADHD so knows all about how neurodiversity links to clutter. As a naturally messy person herself, she can show you how to live in a clean, clutter free and organised home regardless of the issues you face. She thrives on creating strategies and systems that work for real families. Transforming your cluttered homes to calm, safe spaces can also improve your mental, physical and financial health, learn all about it in this podcast.
Heather Tingle has been a member of The Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers since 2016. She and her family have had hoarding tendencies, living in messy homes, stuck in that never ending, exhausting cycle of chores and tidying. She decluttered her home and found a new, calmer and more content way to live. She now supports clients in person and online to achieve the same outcome in their own homes - and now you can learn how she does it through this podcast too!

#4 in the Top 100 decluttering All time chart

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Top 10 Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

005 - How to declutter when you're stuck on pause

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

11/24/23 • 13 min

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Introduction:

Heather Tingle welcomes Untanglers to another episode of Decluttering Untangled.
Topic: "How to Declutter When You're Stuck on Pause."

Understanding the Pause:

Neurodivergent individuals may experience the 'freeze' response to stress.
Heather shares her personal experience of feeling stuck on pause, emphasising the impact of self-imposed pressure.

Overwhelm and Lack of Reward:

Overwhelm as a major hurdle to decluttering.
Neurodivergent individuals might struggle with the traditional reward system.
The challenge of not feeling the impact of small accomplishments due to clutter's persistent nature.

Imagining the After:

The difficulty of visualising outcomes, a common struggle for neurodivergent individuals.
Heather discusses her personal challenge of visualising her space after decluttering.

Worry Over Timing and Commitment:

Fears of getting engrossed, forgetting important tasks, or losing steam halfway through the process.
The fear of ending up in a bigger mess than when you started.

How to Get Off Pause:

Knowing the end result is crucial: What, when, and how will your space look after decluttering?
Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable parts to reduce pressure.
Planning a reward for motivation and satisfaction.

Short and Sharp Sessions:

Recommending short, focused decluttering sessions to avoid burnout.
The importance of visual timers and Heather suggests a recommended product (Amazon affiliate link in show notes below).

Competition and Gamification:

Gamifying the process by making it a competition against time or against a friend.
Counting items to add a competitive element and excitement.

Accountability Without Pressure:

Tailoring accountability to individual needs, especially for those with PDA profiles.
Scheduling decluttering goals within a reasonable timeframe and self-rewarding.

Buddy Up for Support:

Heather suggests having a decluttering buddy for support.
A caution about choosing a non-judgmental buddy and using online communities for s

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If you'd like to say 'Thank you', by buying me a virtual coffee (it'll actually buy me a cup of tea!), you can do so HERE. It will mean I can afford to continue to give help for free and continue with this podcast.

Join my free Declutter Community for real support, tips and advice from Heather and other Untanglers that are just like you!
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Grab my current freebies to support a cleaner, tidier home.
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Please note, I may not be able to reply, but do read all emails to me and appreciate them massively.

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002 - The power of the do it now mentality and how it can change your life

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

11/10/23 • 27 min

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Introduction:

Host: Heather Tingle
Duration: Approx. 18 minutes

Summary:
In this episode of Decluttering Untangled, Heather Tingle introduces a powerful strategy she uses with her one-on-one clients: the "Do It Now" mentality. This simple yet impactful strategy can transform your life and home when implemented consistently. It's not just about decluttering; it's about reprogramming your brain to make better decisions and understand time more effectively.

Key Takeaways:

The 'Do It Now' Mentality:
- Not directly related to decluttering but highly effective.
- Teaches your brain to make decisions and grasp time more efficiently.
- Reduces procrastination, a common problem for individuals with cluttered lives.
Clutter Is Delayed Decisions:
- Clutter mainly arises from postponed decisions and procrastination.
- The episode emphasises the importance of changing your brain's default "do it later" option.
A Load Off Your Mental Plate:
- Immediate action lightens your mental load.
- Addresses the tendency to postpone tasks that eventually become overwhelming.
Practical Applications of 'Do It Now':
- Respond to messages and emails immediately.
- Open and handle mail promptly to avoid growing piles.
- Tackle small tasks like washing dishes or picking up clothing right away.
Diary Planning for Longer Tasks:
- Craft projects and other lengthy tasks can be scheduled in your diary.
- Taking time to plan these tasks in advance prevents them from becoming clutter.
Living in the Present:
- The 'Do It Now' mentality encourages living in the present.
- This is more enjoyable and helps you make better use of your time.

Action Steps:

Challenge yourself to "Do It Now" for tasks taking less than five minutes.
Use your diary to schedule longer tasks, preventing them from becoming clutter.
Embrace the 'Do It Now' mentality to simplify your life and declutter effectively.

Conclusion:
Heather concludes by emphasising how procrastination and delayed decision-making create clutter, and adopting the 'Do It Now' mindset simplifies your life, ultimately making the decluttering journey more efficient. By acting promptly when tasks arise, you save yoursel

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001 - Where to start decluttering - the magic of zoning

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

11/09/23 • 16 min

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Introduction

Host: Heather Tingle
Introduction to the podcast "Decluttering Untangled."
Explains the importance of zoning as the first step in decluttering.
Highlighted the chaos caused by clutter and "doom piles."
Heather shares personal anecdotes about disorganised paperwork.

The Purpose of Zoning

Zoning is introduced as a method for creating designated areas for specific activities or purposes.
Emphasis on the importance of making these zones work for daily life.
The story of a client's experience where zoning was the initial focus.
Discussion of the differences between zoning and decluttering in terms of mental energy and decision-making.

Benefits of Zoning

Zoning serves as a roadmap for decluttering.
Zoning aids in identifying the volume of items in specific zones, helping determine storage needs.
Preventing duplicate purchases by having a clear view of what you already own.
It helps in visualising and quantifying your belongings, making it easier to decide what to keep or discard.

The Types of Zoning

Examples of zoning in various rooms of the house, including the kitchen and living room.
Explanation of how zoning should reflect your personal activities and lifestyle.
An ADHD tip on setting realistic expectations for your zones and activities.
A reminder to organise your items as you live your life and not someone else's.
A teaser for upcoming episodes on decluttering and the PAVES system.

Conclusion

Recap of the benefits and challenges of zoning.
Heather's analogy of zoning being like playing Tetris or a sliding puzzle.
Encouragement to start your decluttering journey by zoning.

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003 - Decluttering with your heart, using emotions not logic for lasting success

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

11/10/23 • 17 min

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[INTRO]
Heather Tingle introduces today's topic on Decluttering Untangled: the use of emotions, not logic, as a guide to decluttering.

Acknowledges the controversy surrounding emotional decluttering and explains that it's her preferred method.
Highlights the relatability for those who are emotionally attached to their belongings, providing an alternative approach to decluttering.

[THE LOGIC PITFALL]

Describes the common problem of using logical reasoning when decluttering and how it doesn't always fit each person's situation.
Mentions the typical logical questions like "When did I last use this?" and "Do I still need it?"
Emphasises that decluttering isn't a one-size-fits-all task and why logic alone might not be suitable.

[NO MAGIC NUMBER]

Addresses the myth of finding a right number for things like towels, cups, or bras.
Explains how logical reasoning often results in keeping items based on endless scenarios.
Highlights the irrationality of this behaviour, considering we're emotional beings, not purely logical ones.

[THE NEW VS. OLD DILEMMA]

Explores the logic behind keeping new items just because you bought them recently, especially when the older ones are cozier.
Questions the common tendency to save new items for a "special" occasion.
Encourages the audience to consider how often they reach for the comfortable, worn-in items over new ones.

[THE COAT HANGER METHOD]

Strongly criticises the logic-based coat hanger method, which encourages turning hangers around and ditching clothes not worn in a year.
Shares a personal example of why this method might lead to regret.
Discusses the complications when sizes fluctuate, and emotional attachments get dismissed based on logic.

[REGRETS DERAIL PROGRESS]

Discusses how regrets become roadblocks to further decluttering, emphasising how they deter individuals from making decisions.
Shares a personal story about the only item Heather regrets decluttering – a vintage Red Dwarf t-shirt.
Explains why using logic to decide can lead to regret when circumstances change.

[EMOTIONS OVER LOGIC]

Presents the alternative of using emotions for decluttering and why it's a transformative experience.
Advocates for the idea that caring more for what you own leads to a greater appreciation of items.
Discusses the

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008 - The PAVES System® - Why you need a Vision

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

12/15/23 • 12 min

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Summary

In this episode, Heather Tingle discusses the importance of having a vision for your decluttered home. She explains how a vision helps with decision-making, motivates you, and provides a reward to look forward to. Heather provides tips on creating a vision for each space in your home and how to consider the desired feelings and activities in each room. She also encourages listeners to trust their own judgment and overcome external influences. Heather concludes by emphasising that your vision can come true with time, effort, and keeping it in mind throughout the decluttering process.
Takeaways

Having a vision for your decluttered home helps with decision-making and motivates you to keep going.
Consider the desired feelings and activities in each room when creating your vision.
Trust your own judgment and design your home according to your preferences, regardless of external influences.
Your vision can come true with time, effort, and keeping it in mind throughout the decluttering process.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Vision
03:21
Benefits of Having a Vision
07:12
Creating Your Vision
08:09
Trusting Your Judgment
09:33
Overcoming Influences
10:01
Your Vision Can Come True

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004- How to survive Black Friday

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

11/17/23 • 15 min

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In this episode Heather shares her insights and strategies to get through Black Friday with more thought and less impulse shopping.

Heather welcomes Untanglers to another episode of Decluttering Untangled.
Shares insights from her past when she used to shop as a pastime.
Reflects on the fleeting satisfaction and subsequent regrets of impulse shopping.

Impact of Marketing (02:28 - 04:52)

Discusses the evolution of marketing and the current sophistication with targeted ads on social media.
Highlights the David versus Goliath situation, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in buying.

Transformation Through Decluttering (04:52 - 07:15)

Heather shares her personal transformation as she decluttered her home.
The shift from finding joy in shopping to deriving satisfaction from buying things she truly adores.
Stressing the significance of a decluttered home in finding peace.

Understanding Black Friday Pull (07:15 - 09:33)

Explores common thoughts your brain might entertain on Black Friday, such as the lure of bargains.
Emphasizes the importance of measuring the real value and impact of a purchase on your life.

Challenges to Consider (09:33 - 11:51)

Addresses common challenges like feeling deserving, keeping up with others, and the allure of treats.
Encourages experiences over material purchases for genuine treats.

Counteracting the Black Friday Pull (11:51 - 14:08)

Strategies to counteract the pull, including making a list of needs and setting a budget.
Advises knowing where the purchased item is going and questioning if you'd buy it at full price.
Encourages redirecting money intended for splurges towards bigger life goals.

Making It Harder to Buy (14:08 - 16:12)

Practical tips to make buying more intentional, like unsubscribing from mailing lists.
Removing auto-saves on bank cards and staying busy to avoid temptations.
The significance of decluttering as a way to preclude unnecessary purchases.

Conclusion (16:12 - 18:12)

Heather sums up the episode, emphasizing that Black Friday should work for the individual, aligning with personal needs.

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028 - But it's a good box!

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

05/03/24 • 9 min

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Summary

In this episode, Heather Tingle discusses the habit of keeping boxes and the impact it has on clutter in our homes. She explores the reasons why people keep boxes, such as the sentimental value or the belief that they may need them in the future. Heather encourages listeners to evaluate the cost of keeping boxes and the benefits of decluttering. She also provides tips on how to determine whether to keep a box or let it go.

Takeaways

Keeping boxes can lead to clutter and take up valuable space in our homes.
It's important to evaluate the reasons for keeping a box and consider if it is truly necessary.
Boxes that have sentimental value or can be repurposed for storage can be kept, but boxes kept solely for resale purposes may not be worth the space they occupy.
Checking return policies and considering alternative solutions can help alleviate the fear of discarding boxes.
Letting go of unnecessary boxes can create a more organized and spacious living environment.

Chapters

00:00
The Habit of Keeping Boxes and Its Impact on Clutter

03:45
The Cost of Keeping Boxes and the Benefits of Decluttering

07:18
Creating an Organised and Spacious Living Environment

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007 - The PAVES System® - How to Declutter and take Action

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

12/08/23 • 19 min

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Introduction:

Brief recap of the Pave system and its importance.
Emphasis on the 'A' for Action.

Getting Started with Action:

Highlighting the necessity of moving from planning to action.
Encouragement to have selected a micro-category from Episode 6.

Tackling the Piles of Doom:

Practical steps for dealing with overwhelming clutter.
Zoning strategy: Placing items in appropriate rooms or areas.

Sorting Action Piles:

Exit Piles:
- Items needing action, such as fixing or checking.
- Organising methods, like using bags or boxes.
Giving to Someone You Know:
- Setting aside items for friends or acquaintances.
Charity and Recycling:
- Designating bags or boxes for charity and recycling.
- Highlighting the importance of separating items during disposal.
Rubbish Bag:
- Allocating a bag specifically for items to be discarded.
Selling Items:
- Caution on the stress of selling and the need for a clear plan.
- Advising a time limit and preparing Plan A and Plan B.
Items to Move to a Different Room:
- Ensuring items find their designated spaces in the home.
- Emphasising the value of small, consistent declutters.

Decision-Making Strategies:

Using emotion rather than logic initially.
The Konmari method modified for smaller, more manageable categories.
Comparing items against each other and making decisions based on adoration and space constraints.

The Ohio Method:

Encouraging the "Only Handle It Once" approach.
Closing eyes, reaching in, and making decisions on the spot to reduce decision fatigue.

Delayed Decisions and Sentimentality:

Discouraging delayed decision piles as a form of procrastination.
Advocating for sentimentality considerations and creating a designated space for sentimental items.

Finishing Strong:

Stressing the importance of completing the process.
Allocating time after decluttering sessions to move items to their final destinations.
Ensuring that listed items for sale are addressed promptly

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006 - The PAVES System® - Removing the stress of decluttering - have a plan!

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

12/01/23 • 18 min

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In this episode of Decluttering Untangled, Heather Tingle introduces her trademarked PAVES System ® , a proven approach to decluttering that goes beyond the typical blitz. The PAVES System ® stands for Plan, Action, Vision, Exit Plans, and Systems. Heather emphasises the importance of planning, which is the first step in this transformative process.

Key Points:

PAVES System Overview:
- Plan: The crucial starting point in The PAVES System ® .
- Action: Follows planning, where the decluttering process happens.
- Vision: Visualising the end result keeps you motivated and focused.
- Exit Plans: Strategising how to dispose of discards efficiently.
- Systems: Implementing routines to maintain a clutter-free space.
Importance of Planning:
- Avoiding Sidetracks: Having a plan prevents getting distracted during decluttering.
- Motivation: Knowing when to start and finish enhances motivation.
- Decision Fatigue: Planning helps manage decision fatigue during the decluttering process.
- Control and Focus: Planning provides control over the process, keeping you focused on the end result.
Micro Categories and Timing:
- Identifying Stress Points: Start with areas that cause the most stress.
- Micro Categories: Break down decluttering into small, manageable tasks.
- Time Management: Consider short, focused decluttering sessions based on your schedule and energy levels.
Minimising Distractions:
- Phone Distractions: Use phone locks and "do not disturb" mode.
- Buddy System: Partner with someone for mutual focus.
- Utilise Breaks: Make use of short breaks for quick decluttering tasks.
Space Considerations and Rewards:
- Decluttering Space: Identify where you can declutter and store items temporarily.
- Rewards: Plan a reward system for completing decluttering tasks.
Discards and Selling Items:
- Exit Plans: Decide when and how discards will leave the house.
- Selling Items: Plan A and Plan B for selling items, setting deadlines.
Physical Tools:
- Bags and Boxes: Use sturdy, manageable containers for organising and discarding items.

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076 - Stop Waiting, Start Enjoying: Why "Perfect" is Holding You Back

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

04/04/25 • 7 min

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Summary

In this episode of Decluttering Untangled, Heather Tingle discusses the importance of taking immediate action in decluttering and organising your space. She shares cautionary tales from her clients who waited for the perfect moment to put items in their place, leading to unnecessary stress and clutter. Heather emphasises that 'done is better than perfect' and encourages listeners to enjoy their items now rather than waiting for ideal circumstances.

Takeaways

Waiting for perfection can lead to more stress.
Immediate action can alleviate clutter and anxiety.
Items can deteriorate while waiting to be used.
Enjoy your items now instead of waiting for the perfect moment.
Perfectionism can hinder progress in decluttering.
It's easier to adjust items later than to wait for perfection.
Decluttering should be a fluid process, not a rigid one.
Neurodivergent tendencies can influence our desire for perfection.
Small actions can lead to significant progress in organization.
Be kind to yourself during the decluttering journey.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Decluttering Mindset

02:45
The Importance of Immediate Action

05:37
Overcoming Perfectionism in Decluttering

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FAQ

How many episodes does Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic have?

Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic currently has 83 episodes available.

What topics does Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic cover?

The podcast is about Declutter, Health & Fitness, Leisure, Home & Garden, Mental Health, Decluttering, Podcasts, Adhd and Autism.

What is the most popular episode on Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

The episode title '001 - Where to start decluttering - the magic of zoning' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

The average episode length on Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic is 14 minutes.

How often are episodes of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic released?

Episodes of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

The first episode of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic was released on Nov 9, 2023.

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Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic

Heather Tingle

Top 10 Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic have?

What topics does Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic cover?

What is the most popular episode on Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

What is the average episode length on Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

How often are episodes of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic released?

When was the first episode of Decluttering Untangled with Heather Tingle : How to declutter when you're overwhelmed, ADHD or Autistic?

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