Since 2012 we have witnessed many clients and students being held back by their own thinking distortions around the idea of getting organized. What is a thinking distortion? Simply put, it’s our brains way of telling us how things are or ought to be based on past experiences and teachings. And yes, we can all get stuck at one time or another in thinking distortions. So, I wanted to break down 10 common thinking distortions that we see on a regular basis.

Why is understanding thinking distortions important in order to get organized?

Understanding your own unique thinking distortions can help you break out of negative thought patterns. Most of the time we don’t even recognize that we’re stuck in an old story line. It isn’t until someone new helps pull back the blinders that allows us to see the situation in a different way. Emilio and I are often a catalyst for change in people’s homes not because we’re amazing professional organizers, but because we help people see a situation in a different way.

Can you change thinking distortions?

The good news is that by becoming aware of thinking distortions you are then able to change them. It’s not always overnight, but awareness is the first step to positive change. By allowing yourself to be open to new ways of thinking, you are creating an opportunity for future success where there may not have been previously.

10 Common thinking distortions for getting organized

1. Black and white thinking

What is it: Everything is viewed with an all or nothing approach.

Example: I tried to organize the garage in one day and I couldn’t finish it. I will never be able to park the car in the garage and I am a complete failure.

2. Setting unrealistic expectations

What is it: Expectations are set that no one, or very few people, could every achieve. However, there is a sense of failure when expectations are not met.

Example: I must be a perfect mother and know how to help my kids stay organized at all times.

3. Selective thinking

What is it: Only remembering the negative. Lots of good things could happen in the day, but only the bad are remembered.

Example: I accidentally shredded a piece of paper I needed while sorting my tax papers, but you were finally able to still file your taxes on time.

4. Converting positives into negatives

What is it: Changing a good experience into something negative. Being unable to accept a compliment.

Example: A friend says how lovely your kitchen is and you respond that it’s so messy and disorganized.

5. Overgeneralizing

What is it: Use of the words “always” or “never” when talking about situations.

Example: My children never clean their room. I always am left to tidy up the house.

6. Exaggerating unpleasantness

What is it: Making something sound far worse than it is. Like making a mountain out of a mole hill.

Example: If the garbage isn’t taken out on garbage day the house will become infested with rats.

7. Catastrophizing

What is it: If consequences for something are going to be negative, then the situation would be unmanageable.

Example: If I don’t finish organizing the house my family will hate me.

8. Personalization

What is it: Everything revolves around you. It’s all my fault. You take everything personally.

Example: My spouse doesn’t want to organize the shed with me, so I must be a terrible person to work with.

9. Mistaking feelings for fact

What is it: Taking what you feel in your body or mind and believing that it must be true about yourself.

Example: I feel unmotivated, therefore, I am incapable of doing anything. I feel disorganized, therefore, I am a disorganized person.

10. Jumping to negative conclusions

What is it: Assuming the worst.  Oblivious to seeing positive outcomes.

Example: I unexpectedly inherited a lot of stuff and stuffed it into my basement. I have extreme hoarding tendencies. The donation centre isn’t taking my quilts. I am not worthy of sharing.

Did any thinking distortions seem familiar?

If you resonated with one or a few of these common thinking distortions, relax. Take a breath. It’s completely normal to have these thoughts. Now that you are aware that they potentially could be standing in your way of success, you are more likely to overcome them. Remember to be mindful and loving with yourself. If you catch yourself thinking one of these common thinking distortions, try sharing with someone or journal out other possible ways of viewing the same situation. You’re great and don’t you forget it!