Something I preach to all of my ADHD clients and practice in my own life is recognizing the value of all the most important things (especially the things most often lost, hidden or misplaced) to have HOMES. If calendars, keys, cell phones, sunglasses, wallets, medications, etc. all go to the same place whenever we are done using them- they will not get lost. They are either being used, or in their resting spot. Period.

This is the best condensed advice I can give regarding new "homes" for your forever misplaced items: First, make sure the new space for your item is within your visual scope, or even where you might trip over it! In my home, rented DVD's are only in one of three places: On top of the TV ready for viewing, IN the DVD player, or resting against the backdoor on the floor where I can't miss them so I take them with me on my way out and get them back to the store!

Second, LIVE by the rule "When I'm finished with it, no matter what is going on and before I do anything else- I will get the prized item back to its HOME!" If it's not there when you go to look for it, what good is the system??

Third, let's talk about the power of "THE BOWL." Put a bowl where you most often leave items you use everyday and often lose track of- and start putting those things in it! My clients (myself included) most often choose the following items for "the bowl": Cell phone, keys, wallet, glasses and loose change. I personally have a bowl at home, one at each of my two offices, and one at a friend’s home where I spend much of my time (and tend to lose things on a regular basis!).

Fourth- Don’t get caught up on the kind of bowl. A disposable Gladd container or cereal bowl will work just as good as any other- forever, or just for the time being! Good Luck!

Deb L. Rowley Adult ADHD Coach http://www.madisoncoaching.com

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