ADHD Productivity: How I Organize My Workflow to Minimize Distractions

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As someone with ADHD, staying focused and on-task can be a constant battle. The temptation of shiny distractions and the difficulty of knowing where to start can leave us feeling like we’re always playing catch-up. But fear not, because I have some game-changing strategies to share with you that will help you optimize your workflow and get your shizle done.

The Importance of Designing Workflows for ADHDers

An ADHD brain is constantly being distracted by internal and external cues. Because we struggle with prioritization, it can also be incredibly difficult to know where to start, leaving us feeling like we’re always playing catch-up.

But here’s the thing – there is a way to overcome these challenges and take control of our workflow.

Let’s start with the importance of designing workflows. A workflow is simply a structure or routine that takes you from point A to point Z. It’s a roadmap for getting things done (in a way that works for you), whether it’s a recurring task or a one-time project that seems overwhelming. By having a clear workflow in place, you can reduce stress, increase confidence (which reduces procrastination) and improve your overall performance.

BTW, if you have ADHD and you want to improve your productivity, then check out Distraction to Action -a productivity program specifically designed for ADHD adults who want to finish what they start.

My Five Steps to Creating a Productive Workflow

Step One: Start with the Outcome in Mind

To begin, you need to clearly define where you are now and where you want to go. This may sound obvious, but trust me, it’s a crucial first step that we often overlook. Picture yourself on the day your task is due, and your goal is to have it completed and sent off. Visualize what “done” looks like for you. This mental shift will set the stage for the rest of your workflow.

What if you don’t know what you want?

I have felt this way too and it’s often because we’re overly focused on what we don’t want. Focusing on your values, strengths and needs is a great place to start with understanding what you do want. Click here and I’ll send you three (free) assessments that will help guide you through this process.

Step Two: Break Down the Process into Manageable Steps

Next, it’s time to break down the process of getting the outcome you want into manageable steps. You can either start from the beginning and work your way to the end result, start from the end and work your way backward, or do what I do and jump all over the place but still end up at the same result.

By breaking down the steps, you’re creating a workflow that will give you an idea of how much energy the project will take. But here’s the thing – ADHDers have a hard time prioritizing tasks, so we need to account for that as well. Personally, I find that when I need to break things down into a prioritized process, pen and paper is the best way to go. It’s also helpful to break the milestones into weeks and plot out the major milestones.

Step Three: Consider the Tools and Resources You’ll Need

You also need to consider the tools and resources you’ll need to complete the task. Think about the software, specific resources, and any support you might need to get the job done. By having everything you need at your fingertips, you can reduce the risk of getting sidetracked by searching for missing items.

As you guys know, I’m a HUGE fan of Notion for getting things done. It’s been a game-changer for me.

Step Four: Check-In with Yourself and Create Accountability

ADHD can make it difficult to follow through on plans and commitments, especially when they are self-imposed. This is why it’s important to check-in with yourself and create accountability to stay on track. Evaluate your motivational staying power and create the structure, accountability, and support you need to stay focused.

I highly recommend experimenting with body doubling with FLOWN. They offer round-the-clock meet ups that are very effective at helping you focus on a specific task (PS – this link will give you a free trial and discount if you decide to join). Or find an accountability partner to help you stay on track. It’s also important to implement a weekly review system so you can track your progress, celebrate your wins, and stay emotionally connected to the project.

Step Five: Create a Weekly Review Routine

Now that you have your workflow in place, it’s so important to have a process in place for reviewing your progress. I have a weekly standing appointment with myself to review my entire business every Friday afternoon. This is where I check in on progress of my goals, review my KPIs, track revenue and expenses and also have a personal check in with myself.

Generally, I want to know week to week, what I enjoyed doing, what felt like a slog, and what gave or sucked my energy. Knowing this can go a long way to intentionally creating a business that is aligned to your energy, interests and strengths. This is exactly what teach in Aligned to Start, my entrepreneurial roadmap for ADHD business owners.

By following these five steps, you’ll notice a significant reduction in stress, increased confidence, and improved performance. Remember, you are capable of achieving whatever you want for yourself. You just need the right structure in place to manage your trigger points where your ADHD might take you off the rails. With the right workflow, nothing can stand in your way.

5 Step – Quick Recap

• Start with the outcome in mind to have a clear goal.
• Break the process down into manageable steps and prioritize them.
• Consider the tools and resources you’ll need to complete the task.
• Create accountability and support to stay on track.
• Implement the workflow and stay focused.

With these tips, you can create a workflow that works for you and take control of your productivity. Don’t let ADHD hold you back – embrace these strategies and conquer your distractions.