In my business I often come across labels being loosely thrown around such as 'hoarder', 'ADD' or 'OCD' to describe someone's behavior including one's own. More often than not, the labels are misused and even abused. It sometimes makes me cringe when I hear, "Oh, he's so ADD", or in jest "I'm sure I'm a hoarder!". So this month I thought it was important to give a brief 'lesson' on the terms associated with disorganization and maybe identify where you fit in if at all.
Hoarding: According to the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) hoarding is a complex disorder made up of three connected problems: 1) collecting too many items, 2) difficulty getting rid of items, and 3) problems with organization. These problems can lead to significant amounts of clutter which can severely limit the use of living spaces, pose safety and/or health risks, and result in significant distress and/or impairment in day-to-day living.
Chronic Disorganization: According to the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, characteristics include accumulating large quantities of objects, documents, papers or possessions beyond apparent necessity or pleasure; difficulty parting with things and letting go; wide range of interests and many uncompleted projects; needing visual "clues" as reminders to take action; tending to be easily distracted or lose concentration; often having weak time management skills.
While Chronic Disorganization is found at the extreme end of the continuum, it is NOT hoarding. And interestingly enough, these individuals are often the most creative and innovative people!
The majority of my clients fall into the first & second level (5 levels) of the Clutter-Hoarding Scale. These two levels describe household or working spaces with standard amounts of clutter and basically functioning environments (level 1) and clutter obstructing some functions of key living areas, slight congestion of stairs, hallways, etc. among other issues (level 2).
Sorting through an exhaustive amount of information about clutter and disorganization can be extremely overwhelming. As long as we rely on other people's perceptions, our own self diagnosis and worse, television shows and social media it can be even more confusing. What is most important is to first, get knowledgeable about what your level of clutter and disorganization is by seeking professional advice, determine its effect on your personal and work life, and determine your readiness for change.
Most important, being conscious of our use of language and being sensitive to the degree individuals struggle with disorganization (whatever their severity) ultimately creates a community of understanding, empathy and non-judgment and helps us through our own journey to a clutter-free, authentic and truly prosperous life.