As an ADHD mom, how many times have you waited for motivation to strike before tackling housework? You’re not alone. Motivation seems like the magic ingredient we’re missing when our homes feel messy and out of control. But here’s the hard truth: Motivation isn’t reliable—and it’s definitely not enough.
If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of waiting for inspiration that never comes, let’s break it down. I’ll show you why motivation often fails us and what you actually need to create a cleaner, calmer home.
The Myth of Motivation
Why Motivation Fails ADHD Moms
Motivation feels great when it shows up, but ADHD brains are notoriously inconsistent when it comes to accessing it. Factors like executive dysfunction, time blindness, and decision fatigue often make it hard to start tasks, even when we really want to.
What Happens Instead:
- You wait for motivation.
- The mess builds up.
- You feel overwhelmed, which makes starting even harder.
Sound familiar?
What You Actually Need: Systems and Momentum
Instead of relying on fleeting motivation, focus on building ADHD-friendly systems and creating momentum. These two strategies work together to keep your home manageable, even when motivation is nowhere to be found.
1. Systems That Work With Your Brain
ADHD brains thrive on simplicity and visual cues. Creating systems that align with how your brain works makes cleaning easier and more automatic.
Examples of ADHD-Friendly Systems:
- Landing Zones: Designate specific spots for high-traffic items like keys, mail, and backpacks.
- Clear Bins and Labels: Use clear storage containers so you can see what’s inside without opening them.
- One-Task Checklists: Break cleaning into small, actionable steps (e.g., “Clear the kitchen counter” instead of “Clean the kitchen”).
Why It Works: Systems eliminate decision fatigue and give you a clear starting point, making it easier to begin and maintain tasks.
2. Momentum Over Motivation
Starting is the hardest part. Once you’ve begun, it’s much easier to keep going—even if you don’t feel particularly motivated. That’s where momentum comes in.
How to Build Momentum:
- Set a Timer: Commit to cleaning for just 5-10 minutes. Often, you’ll find it easier to continue once you start.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Finishing even one small task, like clearing a corner of a room, gives you the dopamine boost you need to tackle the next one.
- Focus on High-Impact Areas: Prioritize spots that make a big visual difference, like the kitchen counter or living room floor.
Why It Works: Momentum creates a positive feedback loop that keeps you going, even when motivation is low.
How to Start When You Feel Overwhelmed
If your home feels like too much to handle, start small. Pick one of these micro-actions to get the ball rolling:
- Clear a Surface: Choose one counter or table and remove all clutter.
- Set a Timer: Spend 5 minutes putting items back where they belong.
- Do One Task: Take out the trash or load the dishwasher—just one thing.
Remember: Progress, not perfection, is the goal.
How Systems and Momentum Changed My Life
When I stopped waiting for motivation and started focusing on systems and momentum, everything changed. My home isn’t perfect (and that’s okay!), but it feels more manageable. I’m no longer paralyzed by the mess, and I’ve learned to celebrate small wins that add up over time.
If you’ve been relying on motivation to clean, try shifting your focus to these strategies. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it becomes to stay on top of your home—even on the hard days.
Want Help Building Your Systems?
The Struggles I See Everyday
If you’re like most of the amazing women I work with, you’ve probably felt:
• Overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work it takes to clean and organize.
• Stuck in procrastination because you don’t even know where to start.
• Embarrassed or ashamed about the state of your home.
You’re not alone.
And more importantly, you’re not broken.
You just need a system that works for your ADHD brain.
THE SOLUTION…..
Introducing: The Clutter Cure Club
This membership is your step-by-step guide to breaking free from the chaos and creating a home you love.
Here’s what you’ll get:
✅ Weekly action plans that break down tasks into bite-sized, ADHD-friendly steps.
✅ Fun cleaning challenges and contests that turn chores into a game.
✅ Simple systems designed to help you stay focused and consistent.
✅ Access to a private community for support and accountability.
Here’s Everything You’ll Get Inside The Clutter Cure Club:
Weekly Bite-Sized Action Plans – So you’ll always know exactly where to start ($200 value).
ADHD-Friendly Cleaning Challenges – Make cleaning fun and motivating ($150 value).
Proven Systems That Stick – Designed for long-term results, even if you’ve struggled in the past ($300 value).
Private Supportive Community – Get encouragement and share wins with others just like you ($100 value).
Chore War Games – Compete against other members of the community to win prizes for doing your cleaning….seriously 🙂 We love to make things FUN!
