Everyday Life is Out of Control: Tips for ADHD Moms

If an organized home is beyond your wildest imagination, keep reading. It is true that we all have different organizing styles and different challenges. In working with moms with ADHD, we work together to find systems that work for them. The ultimate goal is getting most days under control.

First, let set some ground rules:

1. Negative talk is not allowed. Be kind to yourself.
2. It is unrealistic to be anyone other than you. Be the best you.
3. Give yourself room to grow through this process. Progress not perfection is what to expect
4. Keep it simple. No need to overcomplicate things

Now, we’re ready for the tips that will help you get your day under control or at least more manageable. We do have to acknowledge that chaos may come despite doing all of the things. The goal is to have less days of chaos and more days of order and peace. 

1. Start by writing down the day’s tasks. If you prefer the talk to text option using your phone, that is okay too.
2. Pick three that are of the highest priority. These are the “have to” tasks. They can change every day or be the same. (Do not overthink this!!!)
3. Write down ALL that is necessary to complete each task (start to finish). This is really where your brain is being trained. It is a key step for those who struggle with task initiation and completion.
4. Give yourself a time limit for each step. Keep moving until done. If it helps, use a timer for an audible trigger.
   • A word about the time limit: if time management is not your strength, overestimate by doubling the amount to time you think it will take.

5. Once the task is complete, go on to the next one. It is possible to overlap once you have practiced these steps for awhile.
6.  Keep your eyes on the prize: COMPLETION! Offer yourself a small reward. This takes the Dopamine the brain loves up a notch. In turn, the brain will create a positive connection to this type of practice making it easier and easier to practice.

Keep practicing! This system will work for just about everything; cooking, shopping, travel, etc. In trying to figure out how to live organized when you are someone who has ADHD, having a system is essential. Having a system that can be utilized many different ways is a template. Simple and easy steps are most beneficial. Try out the systems shared above for at least two weeks to have enough practice. Once you have the system down pat, feel free to tweak as needed for your life.