That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding - #124 How the little-known Hummingbird Method can help you to dehoard the areas you’ve been avoiding

#124 How the little-known Hummingbird Method can help you to dehoard the areas you’ve been avoiding

01/19/24 • 32 min

2 Listeners

That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe

Today I delve into my experiences of overcoming avoidant behaviours when it comes to decluttering. I share how the Hummingbird Method has been instrumental in breaking down the fear and anxiety associated with tackling daunting hoarded areas.

Join me as I explore the power of gentle, gradual progress and the freedom that comes from challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours.

New method for managing tasks: hummingbird method.
Overcoming fears
Use the hummingbird method to beat procrastination.
Versatile method adaptable for different tasks and problems.
Challenging rigid beliefs to overcome hoarding habits.
Experiment, try new things, open new doors.
Gentle approach to tasks.
Change is necessary for progress.
Trying new things, starting small.
Understanding the Difficulties of Letting Go
The fear and difficulty involved in letting go of hoarded items
The sense of freedom and positive change that can result from letting go
Exploring hummingbirding
Overcoming inflexible behavior and thinking through the hummingbird method
The daunting piles were not as intimidating as imagined
Challenging limiting rules and stepping into avoided areas to confront tasks
Embracing a New Approach
Encouragement to experiment and try new ways of approaching difficult tasks
Starting with small steps, such as opening the cellar door
The passive nature of the "Hummingbird method" in breaking down avoidance barriers
Comparison to a kitten gradually expanding boundaries to become more comfortable
Applying the Hummingbird Method
Using the method to tackle fears and avoidance behaviours
Gradually familiarising yourself with daunting tasks or situations
Illustrative examples of avoiding tasks and gradually confronting them
Comparing the method to a child overcoming a fear of balloons at a party
The importance of flexibility and openness in challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours
One tool in a range of strategies
Recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for overcoming hoarding and avoidance behaviours

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe

Join me as I explore the power of gentle, gradual progress and the freedom that comes from challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours.

New method for managing tasks: hummingbird method.
Overcoming fears
Use the hummingbird method to beat procrastination.
Versatile method adaptable for different tasks and problems.
Challenging rigid beliefs to overcome hoarding habits.
Experiment, try new things, open new doors.
Gentle approach to tasks.
Change is necessary for progress.
Trying new things, starting small.
Understanding the Difficulties of Letting Go
The fear and difficulty involved in letting go of hoarded items
The sense of freedom and positive change that can result from letting go
Exploring hummingbirding
Overcoming inflexible behavior and thinking through the hummingbird method
The daunting piles were not as intimidating as imagined
Challenging limiting rules and stepping into avoided areas to confront tasks
Embracing a New Approach
Encouragement to experiment and try new ways of approaching difficult tasks
Starting with small steps, such as opening the cellar door
The passive nature of the "Hummingbird method" in breaking down avoidance barriers
Comparison to a kitten gradually expanding boundaries to become more comfortable
Applying the Hummingbird Method
Using the method to tackle fears and avoidance behaviours
Gradually familiarising yourself with daunting tasks or situations
Illustrative examples of avoiding tasks and gradually confronting them
Comparing the method to a child overcoming a fear of balloons at a party
The importance of flexibility and openness in challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours
One tool in a range of strategies
Recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for overcoming hoarding and avoidance behaviours

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

#123 The emotional impact of emergency dehoarding: confronting paralysis, shame, terror, panic and exhaustion

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In today's episode, I delve into the emotional impact of emergency dehoarding. Over the last few weeks, I've faced the daunting task of decluttering my home in preparation for an impending electrical testing. I explore the rollercoaster of emotions, from terror and shame to motivation and determination, as I grapple with the challenges of addressing my hoarding situation. Join me as I uncover the journey of navigating through the paralysis and panic to making progress, all while acknowledging the emotional and physical toll of the process.

Stay tuned for practical insights, personal revelations, and a determined commitment to moving forward and not slipping back.

Overcoming fear and making progress step-by-step.
Planned time off and charity donation preparation.
Anticipated shame, ensuring access, fluctuating emotions.
Continual progress and proactive cleanup mindset.
Therapist support pivotal.
Overcoming challenges with tools and focus.
Cannot sustain that intensity, but need to keep moving.
Making rooms accessible.
Overcoming challenges one step at a time, managing panic and making progress amid fear.
Took time off, arranged charity collection.
Struggling with hoarding shame, balancing pragmatism and terror.
Focus on forward movement and addressing small tasks promptly.
Realising the value of decluttering and talking to therapist.
Facing challenges, equipped with tools and deadline.
Unable to sustain pace, seeking balance and progress.
Despite challenges, maintaining progress is beneficial in the long run.
The emotional impact of emergency dehoarding
Paralysis and panic when faced with the task of dehoarding the house
Overcoming initial resistance and taking gradual action to prepare for impending electrical testing
Managing emotions of terror, shame, and exhaustion during the process
Finding motivation in focusing on progress and benefits of a cleaner home
Coping with difficult tasks by reminding myself that it all had to be done
Creating a loose daily plan to guide efforts
Booking a charity collection for excess belongings providing practical assistance and motivation
Acknowledging the imperfect nature of the donation process but recognising its necessity
The role of support from a therapist and knowledge gained from a podcast about hoarding in managing the process
Developing a "toolbox" of knowledge and strategies through podcast, interviews, research, and listener stories
The benefits of having a deadline to stay focused and make progress in the hoarding situation
Reflecting on the improved hoarding situation and the emotional and physical toll of the process
Acknowledging the progress made and the determination to continue moving forward and not slip back
Making a conscious effort to avoid reverting to old habits, aiming to maintain balance and not let up on efforts to overcome compulsive hoarding

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

#125 Clearing hoarding hurdles: Anticipating and overcoming roadblocks in the dehoarding process

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By acknowledging potential roadblocks ahead, we can prepare emotionally and practically for upcoming challenges and even get more efficient when we’re dehoarding. I talk about the importance of being proactive, realistic, creative and adaptable when facing obstacles, while also seeking professional support when needed. I look at the need for planning, prioritising, and breaking down tasks into smaller chunks to overcome difficulties.

Anticipating obstacles improves efficiency and motivation.
Anticipating challenges leads to proactive decision-making.
Anticipate obstacles, reflect, and evaluate for success.
Stay open to possibilities, prepare for obstacles.
Planning can overcome mental obstacles for success.
Preparing for challenges in dehoarding process.
Anticipate challenges and plan preventive measures.
Allow yourself rest, plan ahead, ask for help.
Anticipating obstacles while working. Subconscious problem-solving.
Anticipating obstacles improves efficiency and reduces discouragement.
Anticipating challenges improves decision-making, reduces panic.
Being proactive is key.
Planning to deal with nostalgic stuff eventually, while focusing on current tasks and building up decluttering skills.
Anticipate and adapt to obstacles, focus on progress rather than completion. Reflection and objective evaluation are key.
Stay open to possibilities, prepare with needed supplies, seek advice on overcoming obstacles from others.
Address decision fatigue, burnout, and overwhelm to avoid stops and starts and make consistent progress.
Prepare for challenges, gain confidence from past experiences.
Anticipate and prevent burnout by pacing work, taking breaks.
Take days off even if it feels wrong. Plan ahead and seek help.
Tip for calming mind
Importance of Anticipating Obstacles
Benefits of problem-solving and emotional preparedness
Improving efficiency and momentum in the decluttering process
Assisting in planning, prioritising, and decision-making
Overcoming Challenges
Difficulty of anticipating obstacles, particularly for novices
Leveraging experience to anticipate and surmount obstacles
Adaptability, creativity, and flexibility in addressing anticipated obstacles
The value of trust, resourcefulness, and forward planning
Nostalgic items as potential distractions and triggers
The importance of realistic goal setting and objective evaluation
Anticipating Logistical Challenges
Ensuring necessary supplies are available
Learning from others' experiences with obstacles and their solutions
Importance of planning, breaking down tasks, and consistent progress