Less Busy, More Bliss: Prioritize Your Schedule with ADHD

By: Megs Crawford

Follow along with the to-do list template I created for my ADHD brain here: Grab your template

Listen to the podcast episodes here: Part 1 and Part 2

When I left the corporate world last year, I longed for a way to manage my schedule that made sense for me and my brain. I have been modifying it since to recognize the different aspects of my life that remain difficult, especially with ADHD. Full disclosure, I still live some days without a schedule. I like structure but I also don't like to be kept in a box! Here is your permission to create your schedule your way.

I launched a podcast this week where I discuss in detail how and why organizing your schedule can benefit the way your brain works. How can we simplify our lives to the point where we are not constantly burning out?

1. Set a Reminder

Dedicate a specific time to work on your schedule either daily or weekly. You don’t need a fancy app for this. Simply use the reminders on your phone, your phone’s calendar app, or download Google Calendar. 

2. Establish your Priorities

Decide what your priorities are based on what’s happening on your to-do list. My priorities are Self, Business, Family, and Home. Self is huge if you have ADHD because often times we’re trying to push our bodies to go at the speed of our brains that we forget to slow down. 

3. Assign Colors

Assign colors to each priority to use in whatever program you use. If you are using a physical calendar, colors will still be key to success. This allows you to see how much time you’re spending on each priority. For example, if you select red for work and your entire schedule is now red. Are you really living your best life? 

4. Choose your plans for the day

Select 6 items off your to-do list and align them with a priority. Make sure these action items are straightforward. Break the task into the smallest bite imaginable. For example, Organizing the Junk drawer sounds daunting. Instead break it into smaller tasks like, pull out all the trash, put all the batteries together, put all the sticky notes together, and so on.

5. Estimate the time for your plans

Block the time off in the calendar. I added a calendar on the to-do list to write it out first to see if you have enough time to complete these tasks. If so, add reminders in your reminder app, ask a home assistant (like Alexa or Google), or use your digital calendar (Google Calendar) 

6. Keep a backup for Tasks not yet done

Keep a running list of remaining todos but forgive yourself when not everything gets done. It’s not possible to do it all, but it is possible to believe in yourself. It’s possible to get the most important items taken care of when you have a plan in place. 

I broke this up into two episodes to explain in detail these steps so you can get a view into how my ideas flow and my beliefs behind a schedule. What's your takeaway and what do you want to use in your schedule management?

NOTE: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. I am not a doctor or medical professional, always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider. With any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog