ADHD, Dyslexia And Time Management: Strategies For Thriving In A Fast-paced World

Feel like time slips through your fingers? If you’re chasing deadlines while wrestling ADHD, today’s episode has insights for you. We explore how ADHD affects time management and share ways to stay on track without losing your marbles.

This episode looks at why tasks can seem bigger than they are, how to measure time more accurately, and how to plan confidently. You’ll hear expert strategies and inspiring stories from people who’ve finally found their groove. Ready to get your calendar working for you?

Why ADHD and Time Are Often at Odds

ADHD can scramble your sense of time. Tasks stack up, or you forget about them until the last minute. Then you’re rushing like a headless chicken, hoping you’ll squeeze everything in.

During the episode, I heard a phrase that sums up how it feels:

Time management often feels like herding cats, especially when ADHD is in the mix.

It’s not intentional chaos; you’re just wired differently. That’s why managing daily schedules and priorities can be a huge struggle.

The good news? You’re not doomed. This episode dives into simple strategies that can help you get ahead of that panicky feeling. When you accept that ADHD changes how you see time, you take the pressure off and can start making things work for you instead of against you.

Breaking Tasks into Manageable Steps

It’s tempting to see everything as one massive project. But that makes you want to hide under the nearest blanket. Splitting your tasks into smaller steps can be a game-changer.

Here’s a tip from the episode: Instead of tackling an important job in one go, break it down:

• Write a list of all the steps involved.
• Focus on one step at a time.
• Tick off each piece as you finish it.

Seeing your progress unfold is energising. Even if you only complete a small fraction, you’ll have proof you’re moving forward.

Setting Realistic Goals and Routines

This starts with adjusting your expectations. ADHD can make you overly optimistic about how long things take. You plan to do a day’s worth of tasks in an hour. Then you get frustrated when you run short on time.

Instead, give yourself more time than you think you’ll need. build a routine that fits your natural rhythms. If you’re alert in the morning, use that time for deep work. If you hit a slump at 2 p.m., plan simpler chores or have a quick walk.

Little routines, like always putting your keys in the same bowl by the door, might seem obvious but can be lifesavers. Consistency tames chaos. Even if your schedule’s flexible, anchor yourself with a few daily rituals.

Choosing the Right Planner and Tools

With so many planners out there, it’s easy to get stuck in an endless search. Consider what you need most. Are you a visual person? Try a paper planner with plenty of space to scribble.

Alternatively, apps can keep you on track with reminders and alarms. Some of our listeners love digital calendars synced across devices, especially if you need something that nudges you when you’re drifting off-task.

From the episode, here are a few ideas to consider:

• Use a paper planner if you’re tactile and need to see your week laid out clearly.
• Try a digital calendar with alert features to help you remember what’s next.
• Experiment with task apps that let you drag and drop priorities.

Pick a tool that feels natural. If it’s too complicated, you’ll stop using it after a few days.

Below are some key takeaways you might find helpful:

• Break tasks into smaller, trackable steps.
• Give yourself more time than you think you need.
• Anchor your day with a few simple routines.
• Choose a planner that actually excites you.
• Embrace practical tools, like reminders and alarms.

Now that you’ve had a taste, why not hear the full stories and tips from the experts themselves? Press play on the podcast at the top of this page to dive deeper. You’ll find more advice, real-life examples, and a friendly nudge to help you thrive. If you want more resources or support for dyslexia and ADHD, visit truthaboutdyslexia.com to learn more.