One strength that I consistently see in my clients is their amazing ability to generate ideas. The creative, fast-moving, out-of-the-box thinking that comes with having ADHD allows them to come up with really interesting and innovative ideas. However, one of the downsides of the ADHD brain, is that they often get caught up in developing ideas and fail to execute them. So, how do you make your ideas become a realty when you have ADHD?
To answer this question, we have to start with what gets in the way of bringing ideas into fruition.
Reasons Why You Fail to Execute Your Ideas
Difficulty with organization and planning
One of the hallmarks of ADHD is poor executive function, which can make it hard to break down a complex task into manageable steps and create a plan of action. Without a clear roadmap, it can be challenging to follow through on an ideas.
Impulsivity
People with ADHD may be prone to acting on impulse without fully considering the consequences. This can lead to starting multiple projects at once without finishing any of them or getting sidetracked by unrelated tasks.
Distractibility
People with ADHD often have a hard time staying focused on a single task for an extended period.
Difficulty with motivation
For some people with ADHD, it can be tough to stay motivated to complete a task, especially if it’s not immediately rewarding or interesting.
Challenges with working memory
For people with ADHD, working memory deficits can it challenging to execute ideas because they may struggle to keep important information in mind while working on a task. For example, if someone has an idea for a project, they may struggle to remember all the steps involved in executing that idea, such as the order in which tasks need to be completed or the materials needed.
Here Are a Few Ways to Make Your Ideas a Reality When You have ADHD
Break tasks down into smaller steps
Instead of trying to tackle a large project all at once, break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. This can make the task feel less overwhelming and help you stay on track. Talking with a friend or coach might help you work through the planning process more easily.
Minimize distractions
Find a quiet, distraction-free environment to work in, and turn off your phone notifications or other potential sources of distraction. You can also use tools like noise-cancelling headphones or website blockers to help you stay focused.
Use timers or alarms
Setting a timer or alarm can help you stay on track and avoid getting sidetracked. For example, you could set a timer for 25 minutes to work on a task, followed by a five-minute break.
Get support from others
Let friends, family, or coworkers know about your goals and ask for their support and accountability.
Support Your Working Memory
To help with working memory challenges, it is helpful to keep your ideas in a notebook. Setting up a system for a daily brain dump of thoughts and a time to review those ideas will help you keep those ideas fresh in your mind. Visual reminders such as post-it notes and electronic reminder systems and can all help support working memory and make it easier to keep track of important information.
Everyone with ADHD experiences different symptoms and challenges, so not all people with ADHD will struggle with executing ideas in the same way. It’s important to experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you!
Working with an ADHD coach is a great way to develop personalized strategies to make your awesome ideas a reality. Contact me today to schedule your 15-minute Discovery Call and see if coaching is right for you!