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!

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

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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 "spark joy" philosophy, emphasising the importance of joy and happiness in your living space.

[EMOTIONS VS. LOGIC: A BALANCE]

Concludes that it's acceptable to use logic when emotions are not intense for a specific item, particularly by considering available space.
Reminds the audience that using emotions is an essential aspect of decluttering.
Urges listeners to embrace

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2 Listeners

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 support.

Teaser for Future Episodes:

Heather teases the upcoming exploration of her PAVE system, with 'P' standing for Plan.

Closing Words:

Encouragement to celebrate small victories and kindness to oneself during the process.
Inviting feedback and questions from listeners.

Closing Music:

2 Listeners

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 yourself time and reduce stress. Recognizing when you're thinking, "I'll do it later," is the first step, followed by immediate action and scheduling longer tasks for the future

2 Listeners

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.

2 Listeners

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

1 Listener

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.

Conclusion and Preview:

A glimpse into upcoming episodes, focusing on countering reasons to keep items.
Encouragement to practice decision-making and share progress.

Stay tuned for the next episode, where we'll delve into the 'V' for Vision in the Pave system. Until then, happy decluttering!

1 Listener

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.
Encourages going into Black Friday with excitement but making it work on one's terms.
Expresses gratitude for listening and signs off.

1 Listener

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.
- Cleaning Materials: Prepare materials for cleaning as you declutter.
Final Thoughts:
- Continuous Planning: Regular planning makes decluttering an ongoing, manageable process.

Heather Tingle emphasises that planning is the foundation of successful decluttering, ensuring a systematic, less stressful, and more sustainable approach. Stay tuned fo

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030 - Stop saving things for best

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

05/17/24 • 12 min

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Introduction:
In this episode of "Decluttering Untangled," host Heather Tingle explores the common tendency to save things for special occasions and the impact it has on our lives and homes. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, Heather shares insights into why it's essential to break free from this habit and embrace using the special every day.

Key Points:

The "Saving for Best" Syndrome: Heather reflects on her own past habit of saving the best parts of food for last, only to miss out on enjoying them due to feeling too full. She parallels this with the common practice of saving items for special occasions, such as fine crockery and heirlooms, which often end up gathering dust and going unused.
The Burden of Perfectionism: Heather discusses the fear and perfectionism associated with preserving items for best, highlighting how this mindset can prevent us from experiencing joy in our everyday lives. She emphasises the importance of reframing these beliefs and recognising the fundamental purpose of the items we cherish.
Practical Examples: Using personal anecdotes, Heather illustrates the consequences of saving items for best, such as perfume spoiling over time and cherished possessions becoming damaged or ruined. She encourages listeners to reconsider their approach to using and enjoying the things they value.
Creating Meaningful Connections: Heather emphasises the significance of using cherished items regularly, rather than relegating them to storage. She shares memories of her grandparents and how witnessing their enjoyment of special possessions created lasting connections and meaningful experiences.
Embracing Self-Worth: Heather challenges listeners to confront feelings of unworthiness associated with using luxury items, advocating for self-care and self-expression through everyday indulgences. She encourages wearing special attire, using fine crockery, and enjoying luxury items without waiting for a special occasion.
The Freedom of Letting Go: Heather emphasises the liberation that comes from letting go of the need to preserve items for best, urging listeners to embrace the joy of using and appreciating their possessions every day. She shares personal anecdotes of broken items that brought less regret when they had been enjoyed regularly.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Heather encourages listeners to break free from the "saving for best" mindset and embrace the luxury of everyday living. By reframing our relationship with cherished possessions and prioritising joy over perfectionism, we can create a more fulfilling and authentic life. Remember, be kind to yourself, you're not alone, and keep untangling.

061 - How to Overcome the All-or-Nothing Mindset While Decluttering

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

12/20/24 • 10 min

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Summary

In this episode of Decluttering Untangled, Heather Tingle explores the pervasive 'all or nothing' mentality that affects our approach to decluttering and organisation. She shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies to help listeners break down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps, emphasising the importance of taking small actions rather than waiting for the perfect moment. Heather also addresses the challenges posed by perfectionism and ADHD, encouraging listeners to focus on initial thoughts and actions to avoid getting stuck in a cycle of inaction.

Takeaways

The all or nothing mentality can hinder progress.
Breaking tasks into smaller steps makes them more manageable.
Waiting for the perfect moment often leads to inaction.
Small actions can lead to significant changes over time.
Perfectionism can create overwhelming expectations.
It's important to recognise when you're stuck in all or nothing thinking.
Taking immediate action on small tasks can prevent procrastination.
Organising and decluttering can be done in bits, not just big projects.
Recognising initial thoughts can help in decision-making.
Stop the grand spiral

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to All or Nothing Thinking

02:50
The Impact of All or Nothing on Daily Tasks

06:07
Overcoming All or Nothing Mentality in Home Projects

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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 66 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 '003 - Decluttering with your heart, using emotions not logic for lasting success' 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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