Life as a mom can be overwhelming, trust me I know. Between working/running a business, managing schedules, keeping up with endless to-do lists and ensuring everyone is fed and cared for, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly running on empty. But what if one of the secrets to reducing burnout lies in the space around you? Did you know that a cluttered home can contribute to a cluttered mind, but an organized, simplified space can work wonders for your mental clarity and overall well-being. This is especially true with adults and kids with ADHD.

Here’s how an organized home helps me to reduce mom burnout and practical tips to create calm in your space—one step at a time.

There’s a Connection Between Clutter and Stress

Clutter is more than just physical stuff; it’s mental and emotional baggage. There are times when I will say I have too much stuff going on in my mind or my mind is cluttered. When I say this, I stop to look around where I’m at. It has been said that a messy environment can increase feelings of stress and overwhelmness, making it harder to focus and relax. I know as a mom, I often feel the pressure to keep everything together, but the visual chaos of a disorganized home can take a toll on me.

So often when your home feels out of control, it’s easy to feel like your life is out of control too. I know on the flip side, an organized and tidy home can:

• Create a sense of accomplishment and control.
• Provide mental clarity and reduce overwhelm.
• Reduce the overall stress
• Allow more time and energy to focus on what matters most: your family.

Taking Small Steps to Tackle Clutter and Create Peaceful Spaces

The idea of organizing your entire home can feel daunting, especially when you’re already stretched thin. Instead, break it down into small, manageable steps that you can tackle bit by bit. Here’s how:

1. Start Small and Stay Focused

I like to start with the area that drives me crazy, the most. Pick one area that bothers you the most—maybe it’s the kitchen counter or the entryway. Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus solely on that space. Small wins add up and build momentum.

2. Use the “One In, One Out” Rule

This one can be hard for so many people. But for every new item that comes into your home, donate or discard one item that you no longer need. This simple rule helps keep clutter from building up over time.

3. Involve the Whole Family

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Every few months, I involve my kids in going through their toys to decide what to keep, donate or toss. We get rid of broken items or those they no longer play with. You can also enlist your family to help organize closets or cabinets. This not only lightens your load but also teaches responsibility and teamwork.

4. Create Systems That Work for You

Organizing isn’t about perfection; it’s about finding systems that make your life easier and work for you. For example:

• Use labeled bins for toys or pantry items if that helps. I don’t do this because it really doesn’t work for us. 
• Have a designated “drop zone” for keys, mail and backpacks. We have a drop zone and it helps so much. 
• Establish a weekly routine for tidying up high-traffic areas. Spending 10 minutes a day picking up an area helps so much. Part of our kids’ responsibility is to pick up their room before bed. This doesn’t happen every night, but it does most nights. By doing this it helps keep their rooms cleaned. I pick up the living room, dining room and kitchen daily. 

5. Let Go of Perfection

Keep in mind, the goal is to create a home that feels calm, simple and functional, not picture-perfect. Progress is more important than perfection. I get how hard this can be, but reality being perfect isn’t going to happen. Expecting perfection causes us stress. 

The Emotional Benefits of an Organized Home

As you begin to declutter and organize, you’ll likely notice emotional benefits beyond just a tidier space. You may feel:

• Less Overwhelmed: Fewer piles mean fewer mental distractions. 
• Feeling Calmer: When we aren’t constantly worried about picking up and the mess, we have a sense of calmness.
• More Empowered: Tackling clutter can give you a sense of accomplishment and control.
• Better Connected: With less time spent managing “stuff,” you can focus more on meaningful moments with your family.

A Simple Challenge to Get Started

Ready to create calm in your home? Start with this simple challenge:

• Choose one drawer, shelf or corner of a room.
• Spend 15 minutes decluttering it.
• Keep only what you use, love or truly need.
• Celebrate your progress, no matter how small!

Final Thoughts

An organized home is about creating space and simplifying your homes and life, not about having everything perfectly in place. It supports your well-being and allows you to thrive as a mom. By tackling clutter in small steps and focusing on simplifying, creating peaceful, functional spaces, you’ll not only reduce burnout but also set the stage for a happier, more balanced life.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Take it one step at a time, and soon you’ll start to see a difference in your life. You will feel the calm and clarity that comes with an organized and simplified home.

Love and Support,