My OCD & Accidental Organization

At age 14, I was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Being a child, hearing this news gave me incredible embarrassment. I knew that others my age didn't care about catching germs, enforcing tapping rituals, or cultivating those intrusive thoughts the way I did. All of my rituals, ticks, and "strange" mannerisms consumed my daily schedule.

I rose out of bed every morning to a strict 5 o'clock alarm. Without hesitation, I would tap the nightstand numerous times. My bed was made twice, with concise movements, to flatten the bedspread at every corner. The pillows were fluffed, the curtains were pulled back, and the dresser was meticulously dusted.

Swiffer products were my best childhood friends. Of course, the room was never left in distress or the morning would be sour. Having an override of anxious thoughts was the hardest part of carrying out OCD's mannerisms. Even if it gives me a different perspective on cleaning, I won't disregard its rough beginnings.

My cycles of OCD have changed over the years, and it has grown along with me. It is a disorder that I continue to live with in my college years, granted that it's significantly toned down in comparison.

So, what do people think of when they hear "OCD" in conversation?

Maybe the first things that come to mind are having extreme cleanliness, constant handwashing, and frolicking in clouds of lysol. Its common to have people assume that I am still scared to death of germs. Well, they aren't wrong. It definitely started out that way!

Okay, but what does OCD have to do with spring cleaning tips?

My brain's way of compartmentalizing life around me has allowed me to develop three main ways of keeping routine:

Labels, suitcases, and checklists!

The most helpful aspects of my OCD really do come down to learned patterns of organization.

Labels & Storage:

Using paper sheets from the craft store is a great way to make eye-catching labels for storage boxes. There's no reason to make organizing boring, so add some pizazz! Most craft stores have a large quanity and selection of paper for scrapbooking, which is more cost-effective and hands-on.

For example, you can use a gold colored sheet, cut it into a fun shape, and write the name of the items on it. Tape it on the place you need it to be and boom, instant style! Personally, I think my clothing labels are the most fun to make. I try to create mini shirts, dresses, and shoes out of the paper for the boxes of clothing I have in my closet.

Nothing has to be fancy, just functional!

Making an effort to clean out my closet of the least worn clothes every year is a must, so that I can maximize the amount of space I have. This method reduces waste and keeps me focused on buying only the clothes I know will be worn and used often!

If you are living on your own, are in college, or just dealing with a smaller space, then downsizing on clutter might be an intimidating task. My ultimate tip for bedroom storage is buying 3 large containers, tops! For instance, I have a container for memories/keepsakes, general items, and miscellaneous.

The Suitcase Method:

As strange as it seems, the suitcase tells all! The way I have been able to properly determine what stays and goes in my collection of clothing items is to assess their use. Shopping sprees at 3 am can cause anyone to gather a mountain of barely worn clothes. Therefore, it might be time for a change!

I begin by sorting my clothes to 1. what I need and 2. what I have grown out of style-wise. Once a smaller pile remains, I usually question if they have been worn at least 6 times the past year. If the decision making becomes overwhelming, I pull out one or two large suitcases.

The suitcase method is my main determinant of holding onto clothes. I pack whatever is the most necessary and wanted for that particular season into the suitcases. If I am struggling to throw out old clothes or debating what to give away, this cuts time in half! Almost always, I have a few leftover clothes that don't fit into the suitcase and are given away.

Checklists:

Mental and paper checklists have been the backbone of my organization since the day I found out label makers existed. They are my favorite way to feel accomplished, even if what Im listing is not a "productive" sounding task.

For people who also deal with mental illness, getting yourself breakfast may be the most meaningful point being crossed off on the checklist. Any tasks during the day that make you feel comfortable are valid enough to celebrate!

Every day, I make a checklist using my bullet-journal or monthly planner. On these lists, I write the homework I need to get done, chores, or small reminders for the day ahead. Lists are there to act as a small nudge. Sometimes I have only a few sentences, like if I need to eat a healthy snack or set aside time to breathe. Reflecting on the day and getting a few moments to yourself is important for all aspects of a cleaning routine.

Lastly, getting pens that are comfy really aid the desire for wanting to make one often! I love using all sorts of gel pens to make the writing smoother or adding stickers to make my lists inviting. Give yourself a mini stationery haul and make lists that are pleasing to the eye!

Even as an adult, sometimes its necessary to dive into your creative side and be your own teacher. Forming lists when you have a lot to do, while being patient with yourself, will allow your scheduling behavior to become a solid habit.

Hope these tips can make your organizing a little easier!