
Some chores, such as laundry and cleaning, can be done via multi-tasking within the same block of time. Draw up a weekly schedule with set times blocked out for basic housekeeping work. Let's face it, there is no way to establish any degree of consistent time and effort put into routine tasks unless those tasks become part of a regular schedule. The lack of consistent follow-through required to complete tasks is caused by ADHD symptoms of excessive procrastination and forgetfulness. The one requirement for completing routine chores is that they must be done at regular and consistent times.

Two basic strategies that help are to put routine essentials-laundry, washing dishes, general cleaning-on a set schedule, and maintain a prioritized list for comparatively incidental tasks. Those ever-present feelings of being overwhelmed and exhausted come from a myriad of half-completed projects and put-aside to-do's.

Many ADHD problems that result in low productivity are due to failures in planning, prioritizing and following through on tasks. Learn to live by the principle that "If it's worth remembering, it's worth writing down." Since such a datebook is only as useful as the frequency with which it's checked, get in the habit of looking at your planner as often as you look at your watch. Don't schedule every activity, only the essential ones.Ī calendar or planner also serves as a reminder system. Leave blank spaces in your schedule for breaks, flex time and the unexpected. Avoid the common mistake of trying to schedule every hour of the day, which is usually counterproductive and leads to failure, frustration and discouragement. Using some type of planner with a calendar function-either a weekly-minder paper version or computer software program-is essential for any time management system.Įvery activity that involves scheduling (appointments, social events, deadlines, exercise routine, etc.) goes into the planner. It's been said "The best way to get nothing done is to try doing everything at once." For many adults with ADHD, this is not just a truism but a maddeningly frustrating way of life.
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If more help is needed-for you or someone you know-please don't hesitate to consult a behavior therapist or professional organizer. The strategies and routines discussed here provide ideas for getting started. Transforming an environment of chaos into ordinary messiness can, and should, be considered a job well done.Ī successful system of organization must be individually designed to meet a person's particular needs and address specific problem areas in his or her life. A healthy and realistic goal is not to become super-organized, but simply to make work and home life more manageable. Organizational strategies are essential for managing ADHD symptoms.

As many adults with ADHD can tell you, their lives don't simply feel out of control, they are out of control. Intelligent, creative, and otherwise successful individuals are plagued with chronic feelings of being overwhelmed and exhausted. Needed items at work and home get buried in piles of clutter. One of the most common and debilitating symptoms for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is severe and chronic disorganization. ADHD is as prevalent among grown-ups as children - and just as essential to manage with organizational techniques.
