Staying in line and focused is difficult for busy adults who deal with ADHD. Lists almost become essential and can be a way to keep one on track, but even the basic list can become daunting. The basic list can make one feel trapped and subject to a conveyer belt like life, where one is merely doing the motions, forced to complete each task at a certain time. One with ADHD can quickly fall away from this intense structure.
In the article, “Don’t Be a Victim of Your To-Do List” by Gretchen Rubin looks at other types of lists that can help someone fulfill duties with less stress. She states,
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed at the sight of all the errands, tasks, and aims that re-quire our attention. If you can’t bear to contemplate the complete list, try making a “to-day” list. Just list the things that you’d like to get done today. We’re told that “everybody” should use to-do lists, and that “everybody” finds them useful. But, in the end, they don’t work for everyone.”
To read the entire article, please click here
Lists are helpful but should not dominate one’s success for the day. Lists help people with ADHD and OCD departmentalize what needs done and in what urgency. Multiple lists that illustrate what has been accomplished, or what needs done sooner than later can help someone not feel as overwhelmed.
Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.