Powerful Possibilities: ADHD from New Diagnosis & Beyond
Why traditional productivity systems and ADHD don't mix
Listen on
Episode notes
ADHD Coach Katherine Sanders
In this episode of ADHD: Powerful Possibilities, Katherine explores why traditional productivity systems fail for those of us with ADHD.
We explore the struggles many ADHD brains face when trying to follow typical planning methods and shares practical, ADHD-friendly alternatives to make productivity more flexible, sustainable, and enjoyable.
🐸 If you've ever felt frustrated with traditional advice like "eat the frog," this episode is here to provide you with insights and supportive strategies that actually work.
🧡 Key Points Discussed:
Why Traditional Productivity Systems Fall Short for ADHD Brains
- Conventional methods, like linear to-do lists or strict time management, are designed with neurotypical executive functions in mind, which can lead to overwhelm for ADHD individuals.
- The "Eat the Frog" method and systems that rely on consistent emotional regulation often clash with how ADHD brains operate.
The Role of Executive Dysfunction in Productivity Struggles
- Dr. Barkley's insights: Executive dysfunction is a core challenge for those with ADHD, affecting planning, emotional regulation, task initiation, and follow-through.
- How rigid systems fail to consider emotional factors that disrupt productivity, such as anxiety, frustration, and boredom.
Understanding Dopamine and Motivation
- Katherine discusses Dr. Nora Volkow's research on reward deficiency in ADHD, explaining why traditional reward-based planning often fails.
- Dopamine's role in ADHD brains: why we struggle with future rewards and how this impacts motivation for non-urgent, non-interesting tasks.
Then we explore alternative, ADHD-Friendly Productivity Alternatives
Notable Quotes:
- "The key to productivity isn't just structure—it's finding the right kind of structure for your brain."
- "It's not about trying to fit into productivity molds that were never designed for us; it's about tweaking them until they actually feel doable."
- "Short-term, immediate rewards work best for ADHD, and there’s nothing wrong with making it fun—confetti, points, or cats, whatever gets you moving."
If today’s episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.
😀 Remember, your experience can help others overcome their own challenges!
📝 Please don’t forget to leave a review—every bit of support helps us bring you more strategies for an ADHD-friendly life.
Connect with Katherine here:
📘 The CLEAR ADHD Procrastination Cure Ebook – For more on ADHD-friendly strategies.
🎓 Executive Function Junction Course – Transform your approach to creating habits and routines with powerful brain-based methods.
✉️ Subscribe to Katherine’s ADHD Emails – Get actionable advice and tools directly to your inbox.
💡 Schedule a Coaching Session with Katherine - a one-hour meeting to help you untangle your noodles and make progress on what matters.
📈 Discover your ADHD Growth Archetype Quiz - personal growth looks different when we have ADHD. Discover your best plan forward with my free quiz.
Smith, A. M., & Johnson, R. L. (2021). Co-working and ADHD: Boosting productivity through shared spaces. Journal of Adult ADHD, 10(4), 323-332. DOI: 10.1080/15534510.2021.1874512 (https://doi.org/10.1080/15534510.2021.1874512).