ADHD & those pesky boring tasks
ADHD & those pesky boring tasks
Why is being bored so difficult??
Hi Friend!
I recently recorded a podcast episode with my friend Skye Waterson from Unconventional Organisation.. and it got me thinking. A lot. Like, wayyyy too much. šµāš«We were talking about boring tasksā¦ and why those tasks are often the most difficult for us as ADHDers. It led me down a rabbit hole and Iām here to share the treasure from that journey. š But first, a poll.
Additude Magazine explained it well here: āThe brains of people with ADHD are always seeking interest, more physical or mental stimulation. When they are keenly interested in something, they focus on that, and suddenly the executive function of their brain seems to work well. Attention is activated best in moments of newness; boring tasks are hard to stay with. Interest keeps us going.ā
I know that when I have a boring task on my to-do list, it typically ends up at the bottom of the list time and time again.
Here are a few things you can try if youāre struggling with that pesky boring task on your list:
Break it down: Divide the task into smaller, more manageable subtasks. This helps prevent overwhelming feelings and allows you to focus on one step at a time.
Set a timer: Use the Pomodoro Technique or a similar method to work in short bursts of focused activity. Set a timer for 25 minutes of work, followed by a short break. Repeat this cycle to maintain productivity and alleviate boredom.
šHot tip: Iām really loving Llamalife for this - Iāve used it every day for weeks and thatās a record over here! š
Make it interactive: Inject elements of creativity or engagement into the task. For example, you can turn boring paperwork into a challenge by timing yourself or creating a game-like approach to completing it.
šHot tip: Check out Dani Donovanās Book āThe Anti-Plannerā for tons of creative ways to make tasks fun again. I LOVE this book.
Utilize external aids: Consider using organizational tools, such as task management apps or reminders, to help stay on track. Breaking tasks into visual charts or checklists can also provide a sense of accomplishment as you make progress.
šHot tip: Iām a big fan of Sunsama to help me prioritize my to-do list. Check out Sunsama here
Share the tools that youāre loving! What strategies are working for you?
In this episode, I chat with ADHD Coach and Founder of Unconventional Organisation, Skye Waterson, and we deep dive into why boring is so hard for ADHDers. Skye gives some great tips on how to tackle those pesky boring tasks.
Alsoā¦ time is running out if youāre interested in joining us for the first ever ADHD Womenās Retreat in Montego Bay, Jamaica (Sept 20-24) We have just a few spots left! The ADHD Womenās Retreat features a beautiful all-inclusive resort, workshops hosted by Meredith Carder, yoga, breathwork, and EFT Tapping by Kimberly Cohen, excursions, relaxation, community, and more! Thereās still time to get on the priority waitlist!
I use ToDoist as my brain. It reminds me that even if I don't want to do it, it's cat litter day. At least there is a small satisfaction in checking the box. Plus, when I forget about things (which is going to happen), at least it's in there to remind me that I forgot I promised Joe I would take a look at that thing. I use timers for focus time, my favorite is Bear Focus Timer (BFT) and I also set my phone to a special focus setting if BFT is open that allows only a select few people interrupt me. On the other side of things, I like to play games... I hate unloading the dishwasher, I don't know why. But I will start a cup of coffee with the Keurig and then try to beat the time by getting the dishwasher completely unloaded before it's done. Often I'm done well ahead of time and will reload it, and possibly wipe the counters down. It's a dumb game but it works. (similar things are in Dani's book which I just got in the mail a couple weeks ago!)