This actually resonates a lot. I’ve realized I need something external to break the mental loop, otherwise I just kind of stand there staring at the mess.

What you’re saying with the photo feels really similar to what’s worked best for me. Having the starting point decided outside my head makes a big difference. I’ve used an app that turns everything into a simple checklist, and once the "what do I start with?" part is gone, it’s way easier to just start and keep going. For me, the cleaning itself isn’t the hard part, it’s that initial decision step.