I'm Busy Being Awesome

✨ Join the free training here ow motivation and procrastination are some of the most common ADHD challenges, but what's actually driving (or blocking) your motivation goes much deeper than you think. In this episode, ADHD coach Paula Engebretson breaks down the real mechanics of motivation, procrastination, and ADHD, and gives you a practical tool to take back control. Every action we take (or avoid) is driven by one of two directions: moving toward a feeling we want, or moving away from a feeling we don't want. For ADHD brains, the "away from" direction runs the show more often than we realize, and once you can see it, everything starts to shift. In this episode, you'll discover: The two directions of motivation we all navigate, and which one is most likely running your behavior right now How to identify the specific emotion underneath your motivation so you can stop spinning and start moving forward with intention A 4-step check-in tool to shift your thinking, generate the feeling you actually want, and take one small step forward, even on your hardest days Work With Me: Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains More ADHD Resources: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Discover my favorite ADHD resources Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline: 00:00 Relief And Motivation 01:54 Toward Vs Away Drives 03:14 Same Action Different Fuel 05:50 ADHD And Urgency 08:03 Name The Emotion 08:44 Overwhelm Example 09:57 Thoughts Create Feelings 11:59 Shift Thoughts Gently 14:39 Chasing Relief Trap 18:04 Four Step Check In 20:09 Try It This Week 21:03 Free Training 22:04 Wrap Up And Resources  

✨ Join the free training here We find something that works for our ADHD brains, and it feels like a win. Then we forget to use it. In episode 354 of the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast, we walk through five reasons ADHD brains lose track of strategies that genuinely help, plus one simple, low-effort system to help you build a bridge back to what works with more ease. The five real reasons ADHD brains "forget to remember" How to create a personalized Tool Card What "drift signals" are and how to use them to re-engage with what works Work With Me: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Forgetting to Remember 02:09 Welcome and Goal 02:45 The ADHD Strategy Cycle 05:14 Five Reasons We Forget 10:16 Stop the Shame Story 11:00 Build Your Tool Card 12:01 Choose One Focus 15:01 Give It a Reliable Home 16:07 Find Your Drift Signals 21:27 Try It This Week 22:41 Free Training 24:02 Wrap Up and Resources  

✨ Grab your free Intentional Summer Workbook + join the free workshop Summer has a way of slipping by before we even notice, especially for ADHD brains. In this bonus episode, we slow down and design your summer around how you actually want to feel, then build four types of flexible planning anchors to help you return to that feeling all season long. Plus, there's a free workshop and workbook to take it even further. Grab them here! In the Bonus Summer Episode, You Will Discover: How to identify two or three feeling words that will anchor your whole summer A step-by-step guide to get clear on what a truly good summer looks and feels like for you Four types of anchors to return to your ideal summer experience, no matter what your energy or schedule looks like Work With Me: Learn more about private coaching here Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: Free Intentional Summer Workbook + Workshop (May 21st) More ADHD Resources: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Discover my favorite ADHD resources Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Stay focused with brain.fm and get a 30-day free trial* This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Why Summer Feels Hard 00:20 The Plan  01:41 When Summer Slips Away 02:59 Sisters Summer Inspiration 04:50 Choose Your Summer Feelings 06:20 Free Workshop Invite 07:32 Spot Your Default Patterns 1 0:42 Visualization For Clarity 13:05 Pick Your Emotion Words 14:38 Build Flexible Anchors 15:58 Four Anchor Types 19:42 Anchor Example Connected 20:47 Your Next Steps 22:06 Wrap Up And Share  

There's a sneaky version of imposter syndrome that lives specifically in the ADHD brain… and it has nothing to do with your results. Your process works. Your output is solid. So why does part of you still brace for the moment someone finds out how you actually get things done? In Episode 353, You Will Discover: The specific flavor of ADHD imposter syndrome that drains your energy before you even start — and why it shows up even when your results are strong The difference between workhorse and thoroughbred energy patterns, and how understanding your natural rhythm changes everything about how you work Four reflection questions to identify what you're hiding, what it's costing you, and how to build genuine permission to work your way — without apology Work With Me: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: Ep. 140: ADHD Imposter Syndrome – The 5 Competence Types & How to Challenge Them Ep. 287: ADHD Energy Levels – Workhorse vs. Thoroughbred More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Fear Your Process 02:05 Coaching Call Theme 03:54 Workhorse vs Thoroughbred 07:15 Unconventional Wins 08:34 Process Imposter Syndrome 10:57 Workhorse World Conditioning 11:41 Sprints and Recovery 14:52 Part Time Worry 17:42 When Process Needs Help 18:23 Webinar Block Example 18:46 Verbal Processing Breakthrough 19:50 Voice Actor Deadline Stress 21:20 Target Dates Not Deadlines 22:25 Stop Performing Productivity 23:07 Belief Mindset Emotional Trio 24:27 Spotting Imposter Thoughts 25:52 Owning Your Night Owl Flow 29:49 Why Belief Work Needs Support 31:05 Group Coaching Invitation 32:12 Questions To Claim Your Process 34:16 Wrap Up Quiz And Subscribe  

Have you ever looked at a pattern you thought you'd "fixed" — maybe you fell back into all-or-nothing thinking, or perfectionism returned, or you found yourself avoiding the very thing you spent weeks building a habit around — and your ADHD brain quietly offers this thought: "Here we go again. After all this. I'm right back where I started." This episode has your name on it. Real ADHD growth rarely moves in a straight line, and understanding why changes everything. In Episode 352, You Will Discover: Why ADHD brains feel like they keep returning to the same patterns (and why you're not actually back at square one) The Spiral Staircase Model of growth and what it really means for your ADHD journey Three reflection questions to help you recognize and learn from the progress you've made Work With Me: Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Here We Go Again 02:03 Growth Is Not Linear 04:20 Spiral Staircase Model 07:11 Catching Old Patterns 08:56 Client All Or Nothing 11:51 Noticing Quiet Progress 13:48 Reflection Questions 17:02 How To Take Action 19:09 Reframing The Moment 20:08 Wrap Up And Next Steps  

Do you find yourself trying to rest, but your ADHD brain is mentally sprinting through your entire to-do list? There's a belief running quietly underneath every productivity system you've ever tried, and it's the real reason your ADHD brain can't relax. It's time to learn how to rest with ADHD. In episode 351, you'll discover: Where the "rest must be earned" belief actually comes from, and why it made complete sense at the time The four hidden costs of this belief and its connection to ADHD burnout Five concrete moves to loosen its grip so you can finally be present in the life you've built Work With Me: Learn more about private coaching here Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: Episode 310: The Work is Never Done + How To Accept Unfinished Work Episode 334: ADHD Relaxation: Why Traditional Rest Doesn't Work & What Does More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Why Rest Feels Impossible 01:40 The No Rest Rule 03:41 Roadmap to Rest Episodes 05:11 Name the Belief 08:19 Where It Comes From 13:00 Guilt Lazy Worth Layers 16:25 The Hidden Costs 22:53 Coaching 24:23 Notice the Water 28:32 Five Practices to Shift 36:18 Wrap Up and Next Steps  

Get the Newly Updated Podcast Roadmap Here! You know that frustrating feeling where you know exactly what to do, but your ADHD brain just won't let you start? SAME. If you've ever had a habit you wanted to keep but somehow couldn't, or found yourself doing something on autopilot that you'd really like to stop, this episode is for you. Today we're talking about the 20-Second Rule: a deceptively simple framework for making good habits easier to start and unwanted habits just a little bit harder to access. The secret is in the friction. In this episode, you'll learn: What the 20-Second Rule is and why it works so well for ADHD brains How to identify the "friction" that's quietly derailing your best intentions Real-life examples of removing friction (and adding it) that actually work How to do a Friction Audit on your own habits — right now This is one of my favorite frameworks to use with coaching clients, and I think once you see it, you'll start spotting friction everywhere. Work With Me: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: The Happiness Advantage - Shawn Achor Episode 192: How Tiny Habits Create Lasting Change (Big doors swing on little hinges) More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Tiny Glitch Big Habit 01:29 Why Friction Matters 02:05 Starting Small Explained 04:25 The 20 Second Rule  07:24 ADHD Friendly Reframe 10:09 Friction and Podcast Roadmap 12:03 What Friction Looks Like 14:28 Real Life Friction Fixes 19:26 Run Your Friction Audit 20:37 Key Takeaways and Next Steps 21:55 Wrap Up and Resources  

"There's no way you have ADHD." That's what the psychiatrist said to me, right before he laughed out loud. Why? Because I had a PhD, a job as a professor, and a marriage. In his mind, my "success" canceled out my struggle. That moment was my first lesson in self-advocacy, and it sparked a journey that changed everything. Ten years later, I'm sharing the 10 things I wish I could go back and tell that version of myself and anyone else navigating a late ADHD diagnosis. Today in episode 348, we're covering: Why understanding your brain's need for stimulation, cognitive flexibility, and working memory can transform how you approach daily life with ADHD How masking and rejection sensitivity quietly drain your energy and keep you stuck — and what to do about it The counterintuitive truth about self-acceptance and why it's the foundation for lasting change Work With Me: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Learn more about private coaching here Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: Learn about Rejection Sensitivity Here Learn about ADHD Masking Here Learn about Working Memory Here Learn How to Deal with ADHD Boredom and Understimulation More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 0:00 Dismissed on the Phone: The Laugh That Started It All 1:54 10 Years Later: Birthday Reflection & Why This Episode Matters 6:13 Today's Format: A Letter to My Newly Diagnosed Self (10 Things) 7:57 Falling Asleep & Understimulation 10:52 Meds Help, But Pills Don't Teach Skills 14:04 Cognitive Flexibility: Why Transitions and Plan Changes Hurt 16:47 Notes Aren't 'Cheating': Working Memory, Lectures & the Teleprompter 20:55 The Exhaustion of Masking (and How It Gets Better) 23:19 When People Doubt Your Diagnosis: Trust Your Experience 25:25 Rejection Sensitivity: The Shame Spiral Behind Avoidance 28:07 Knowing Better ≠ Doing Instantly: Give Yourself Time to Change 30:10 Self-Acceptance Is the Real Catalyst for Growth 31:53 Your Emotions Are Not Too Much 33:22 Recap of the 10 Lessons 34:17 Closing: Reflect, Share, and Next Steps  

Time management might not be the problem we need to solve right now when it comes to ADHD productivity. If you've tried every planner, app, and calendar blocking strategy out there but still feel behind, you are not alone. For years, we've been taught that if we could just manage our time better, everything would click into place. But for adults with ADHD, the old "time equals money" equation doesn't always hold up, especially when we're doing complex knowledge work. In episode 347 of the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast, we're challenging core productivity beliefs and exploring an approach that serves our brains better. We're shifting the focus from the clock ticking on the wall to the internal resources we actually have agency over. In this episode, you will discover: Why traditional time management advice often fails neurodivergent brains. A compassionate, ADHD-friendly definition of a "productive day." The three core elements that impact your output more than time. Practical ways to work with your natural peaks and troughs rather than fighting them. It's time to stop trying to manage the unmanageable and start honoring how your brain actually works. Work With Me: Learn more about private coaching here Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Resources From This Episode: Episode 172: ADHD, Procrastination, and Wanting to Do The Thing Episode 192: How Tiny Habits Create Lasting Change for ADHD (small hinges swing big doors) When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Time Management 02:01 The Historical Context of Time Management 03:16 Redefining Productivity: Energy, Attention, and Emotions 05:20 Managing Your Energy 06:54 Focusing Your Attention 10:42 Understanding 7 Allowing Your Emotions 14:57 Practical Steps to Boost Productivity 16:34 Next Steps  

Episode 346: ADHD Burnout - When "Just Work Harder" Stops Working Are you that high performing ADHD brain who always figures it out, regardless of how much it impacts your well being? Have you relied on this strategy for most of your life, only to suddenly realize it's not sustainable? On the outside, you look successful and put-together. But inside, you're exhausted, overwhelmed, and terrified because the strategies that got you here won't get you there. In episode 346 of I'm Busy Being Awesome, we explore a challenge many mid-career adults with ADHD face: the moment your "sand foundation" of grit, hustle, and anxiety-fueled deadlines finally gives way. If you feel like you're drowning despite working harder than ever, episode 346 of the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast is for you. In episode 346, you will discover: Why high-achievers with ADHD often unknowingly build success on a "sand foundation." How to process the fear of realizing what once worked isn't working What it means to pour a reliable "concrete foundation" designed for your unique brain. Three simple experiments to start rebuilding sustainable support without burnout. Work With Me: Learn more about 1:1 coaching with Paula here Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With Your ADHD Brain Access the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Free course: ADHD Routine Revamp This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: When ADHD Strategies Stop Working 01:44 Welcome 02:13 Understanding the Friction Point 03:08 Building on a Sand Foundation 08:57 The Emotional Work Required 14:40 Getting Curious and Trying New Strategies 21:29 Concrete Experiments to Try 26:07 Final Thoughts 30:24 Recap  

Episode 345: ADHD Brain Overwhelmed By Newsletters? Try This. I currently have over 800 unread newsletters in my inbox…and I'm pretty sure I subscribed to almost every one on purpose.

If your ADHD brain struggles with procrastination, or you often find yourself thinking, "Why can't I just do this thing?!" episode 344 is for you. We often think "getting started" is one simple action. But for the ADHD brain, task initiation is actually a complex chain of 5-6 distinct steps, each of which demand our executive functions. When we collapse these steps all into one, we miss the nuance of where the breakdown happens and we default to shame instead of solutions. In this episode, we're taking apart the "I'm just a procrastinator" narrative. You'll learn how to identify which of the 6 stages is actually blocking you from starting and find one small, specific way to make it remove the friction and take the next step. In episode 344, you will discover: The 6 hidden layers of task initiation (and why 'just doing it' is biologically harder for us). How to pinpoint exactly which step has you stuck. One specific micro-step to remove the friction from the step that's holding you back. Work With Me:

If you are navigating a neuro-mixed relationship in your life whether you have the ADHD brain or someone you care for does you likely know some version of this cycle: a missed task leads to frustration, which leads to defensiveness or shame, which ends in a conflict where no one feels heard. In episode 343, we are bridging the gap between the differing experiences of an ADHD brain and a Neurotypical brain. Whether they're a partner, a colleague, a friend, or a family member, we're moving away from blame and shame and getting on the same team. we'll cover the 5 biggest sources of disconnect in ADHD relationships: Executive Dysfunction Time Blindness Working Memory Emotional Flooding Hyperfocus You will walk away with practical scripts, tools, and a new framework to turn your frustration into teamwork. Work With Me:

Does your weekly planning routine usually fall apart by Monday afternoon? If you have a graveyard of half-filled planners and abandoned Notion dashboards, please hear me: it's not YOU. You just haven't found a system that works with your ADHD brain If you've tried every app, color-coded calendar, and 27-step workflow out there but still feel overwhelmed, this video is for you. Today, we're exploring the Alastair Weekly Log: a ridiculously simple, flexible planning method that uses just one piece of paper (or a notebook page) to give you a clear snapshot of your week. This isn't about rigid time-blocking or forecasting every minute of your day. Instead, it's a simple approach that helps you visualize your capacity, manage your energy, and start scheduling a reasonable amount for a human (not a robot) In this episode, you will discover: Why complex planning systems often fail our ADHD Brains The simple "split page" setup you can do in under 5 minutes How to use the "dot method" to handle tasks when life inevitably goes off the rails Why this visual approach helps curb over-scheduling 5 specific reasons this method is a game-changer for ADHD brains Work With Me:

In Episode 340 You Will Discover: How ADHD low energy is biological, not a discipline problem Ways to identify which low-energy phase you're in right now Simple, compassionate tools that match your actual capacity Work With Me:

In Episode 339 You Will Discover: Three key reasons change is hard for ADHD brains A simple, step by step approach to make lasting change Actionable tips to incorporate these tools into your life today Work With Me:

Ever find yourself 95% done with a task… and somehow still not finishing it? In this episode, we're talking about what I call the infinite 5% — that last little stretch of a project that somehow takes forever. We'll break down why this pattern shows up (especially for ADHD brains), what's actually going on when it feels impossible to cross the finish line, and two powerful mindset shifts that can help you finally finish — or give yourself permission to pause — without guilt or burnout. You'll learn: Why the last 5% of a task feels so hard to finish — and how ADHD brains get stuck in the "almost done" loop The five hidden challenges that make completing projects feel overwhelming (even when you're this close) Two ADHD-friendly ways to redefine what "done" really means — without relying on perfection or burnout Work With Me:

In Episode 337 You Will Discover: Why traditional due dates don't work for ADHD due to our time blindness. How to bridge the gap between "Now" and "Not Now" by creating "Doing Dates" Actionable steps to implement what you learn and take action today Work With Me:

In Episode 336 You Will Discover: The iteration mindset that replaces perfectionism with progress when planning with ADHD How to build in flexibility without losing structure entirely The one reframe that makes scheduling feel like support instead of suffocation Work With Me:

In Episode 335 You Will Discover: Why ADHD brains crave fresh starts (and why January turns that up to 100) What makes choosing one focus so hard when you have ADHD & big ambitions How narrowing to one clear focus can reduce overwhelm and increase follow-through A simple, practical process to clarify your "one thing" without ignoring other parts of your life How to work with your ADHD decision fatigue, fear of missing out, and "all-or-nothing" thinking Gentle, realistic ways to build momentum toward your goals without burning out This episode is for you if… You have ADHD (or ADHD-ish tendencies) and feel pulled toward 27 goals at once New Year's feels like a giant, glittery to-do list you're already "behind" on You're tired of all-or-nothing New Year's resolutions and want something more sustainable If this episode helps you feel a little more calm and clear about the year ahead, I'd be so grateful if you'd subscribe to the podcast or share it with a friend whois feeling the New Year pressure too. Your support helps this work reach more ADHD brains who need it.

In Episode 334 You Will Discover: Why ADHD brains process rest differently The concept of Contrast Avoidance Theory and why rest can feel unsafe How parallel tasking helps ADHD adults finally relax 5 practical steps to ADHD relaxation that support your unique brain Work With Me:

In Episode 333 You Will Discover: How changes in routine can impact sleep overall 10 actionable ADHD sleep tips that can make a big difference Simple structural supports to make sleep easier for those of us with ADHD today Work With Me:

In Episode 332 You Will Discover: Why working memory struggles make information retention harder with ADHD 5 proven strategies to enhance memory retention when learning new things Personalized approaches for each overwhelm type (Lion, Gazelle, Turtle, Chameleon) so you can adapt these strategies to YOUR brain. Work With Me:

In Episode You Will Discover: Why ADHD impatience happens in the brain and body How "trying harder" actually makes impatience worse The mindset shift that helps everything Four ADHD-friendly strategies to build real-world patience Work With Me:

In Episode 330 You Will Discover: How to run a quick "pre-holiday audit" to spot energy drainers before the season starts Practical scripts to help you pause before saying yes The "Good Enough Manifesto" that quiets perfectionism How to build a personal recharge plan for social or sensory overload Simple, kind ways to say no—or a balanced "yes-if"—that honor your capacity Work With Me:

In Episode 329 You Will Discover: Core reasons why ADHD brains are more prone to people-pleasing How to start a People-Pleasing Inventory to notice your patterns without judgment Simple reflection questions to help you recognize who, when, and why you overcommit Work With Me:

In Episode You Will Discover: What the typical holiday stress curve looks like for ADHD brains How to soften the buildup of stress and overwhelm Practical examples, mindset shifts, and strategies you can use Work With Me:

In Episode 327 You Will Discover: How ADHD capacity and energy fluctuate, and why it matters What the push–pull dilemma feels like (and why both rest AND resistance can feel true) One guiding question to help you choose the option you truly need Work With Me:

In Episode 326 You Will Discover: Why ADHD brains ping-pong between under-activated and overdrive How hyperfocus and perfectionism can lead to burnout on the far side of the curve Simple tools to support ADHD activation without tipping into overwhelm Work With Me:

In Episode 325 You Will Discover: The role of working memory in an ADHD brain. What we mean by ADHD object permanence and how it shows up in our day to day. 3 Actionable ways to support our working memory with ease. Take the Free Quiz: What's Your Overwhelm Type? In under a minute, discover how overwhelm shows up for your ADHD brain — and what to do about it.

In Episode 324 You Will Discover: The four different overwhelm types How they present First steps to support ourselves from overwhelm to action Work With Me:

In Episode 323 You Will Discover: One sneaky thought that often traps ADHD brains A new way to think about our habits and routines 3 practical strategies to build habits and routines that last Work With Me:

In Episode 322 You Will Discover: How to identify your "high-interest" projects and prioritize them strategically. The value of making "minimum payments" on certain tasks. Which “payment method” is best for completing your projects based on your unique situation and energy levels. Work With Me:

In Episode 321 You Will Discover: The real reasons your ADHD brain gets overwhelmed (and why it's not your fault) The emotional, physical, and practical toll of chronic overwhelm 3 specific shifts to help you move from stuck into action Work With Me:

In Episode 320:  Best Productivity Books for ADHD Brains, You Will Discover: The top 5 productivity books for ADHD brains Why these books have been especially impactful How to identify which book will give you the biggest wins right now Work With Me:

In Episode 319: 5 Ways to Stay Motivated After A Dopamine Drop, You Will Discover: What the dopamine drop is, and why it happens for our ADHD brains 5 powerful ways to work with the drop to maintain motivation Actionable ways to use these strategies in your life today. Work With Me:

In Episode 318: ADHD Productivity: Before You Switch Planners Again, Do This,  You Will Discover: Why our ADHD brains seek new planners, apps and tools The very real cost of switching systems The one powerful question I love to ask before adopting something new Work With Me:

In Episode 317: How To Plan Your Work & Work Your Plan: Tips for ADHD Brains, You Will Discover: Why the traditional interpretation of "working your plan" can actually set ADHD brains up for failure A powerful metaphor that transforms how we approach planning How to adapt your approach when your executive functions decide to take an unscheduled vacation Work With Me:

In Episode 316: How To Make Time for Fall Fun, You Will Discover: Four common ADHD obstacles to enjoying the fall season My F-A-L-L framework for reducing overwhelm and increasing fun Practical, actionable strategies for a joyful fall + Check out the blog post for 50 Fun Fall Activities Work With Me:

In Episode 315:7 of the Best Books for Women with ADHD, You Will Discover: Powerful books that help you feel seen in your ADHD experience The neuroscience of ADHD to work with your brain instead of fighting it Resources offering both validation and practical strategies you can implement today Work With Me:

In Episode 314: Why Celebrating Your Wins Matters + How to Start, You Will Discover: Why your ADHD brain struggles to feel satisfied after major accomplishments, even after hard work Why feeling proud isn't selfish - it's essential for registering progress and maintaining motivation Practical ways to celebrate wins, train your brain to recognize success, and experience the satisfaction you deserve Work With Me:

In Episode 313: 10 Real-Life ADHD Tips to Wake Up & Get Out of Bed Easier,  You Will Discover: Why mornings are uniquely challenging for the ADHD brain Simple morning and evening routine shifts to make getting out of bed easier 10 practical strategies to break the sleep-debt cycle and actually enjoy your mornings   Work with me:

In Episode 312: How To Play As An Adult + The 7 Properties of Play, You Will Discover: Why play is important for adults, not just children How play is a powerful tool for regulating and supporting your ADHD brain for greater resilience, focus, and effectiveness overall The 7 properties of genuine play and how to identify what counts as play for YOU Work With Me:

In Episode 311: How To Restart Your Day with the Next-Five Reset, You Will Discover: How to shift out of all-or-nothing thinking when your ADHD brain says you've ruined the day by not perfectly following your schedule Why time management is extra challenging for ADHD brains and how we can support ourselves through it. A simple but powerful technique that helps you start fresh at any point in your day. Links From The Podcast

In Episode 310 You Will Discover: Why chasing "caught up" is holding you back - and how to reframe this perspective for greater spaciousness and freedom in your days A powerful daily practice that helps you transition from work mode to rest The art of "done for now" thinking and accepting unfinished work, plus how it can transform your relationship with tasks and time management Links From The Podcast Learn more about private coaching here Learn more about We're Busy Being Awesome here Get the top 10 tips to work with your ADHD brain (free ebook!) Discover my favorite ADHD resources Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Oliver Burkeman's Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: The Never-Ending To-Do List 01:09 The Mirage of Being Caught Up 03:40 Welcome to the Podcast 04:06 The Haitian Proverb: Beyond Mountains 06:09 Personal Struggles with Productivity 09:05 The 4:55 PM Alarm: A New Practice 11:36 Embracing the Unfinished 13:48 Reframing Productivity 17:08 The Grief of Letting Go 19:17 Closing Thoughts and Gentle Questions 21:27 Final Words and Resources

In Episode 309, 8 Types of Self-Care for ADHD Adults You Will Discover: The essential role of self-care for ADHD brain wellness (and why it's more than just bubble baths and spa days!) 8 distinct categories of self-care tailored specifically for ADHD brains A practical framework to identify your most-needed type of care and integrate it naturally—without adding another overwhelming to-do list Links From The Podcast Learn more about private coaching here Learn more about We're Busy Being Awesome here Get the top 10 tips to work with your ADHD brain (free ebook!) Discover my favorite ADHD resources Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Tune into Episode 305: Helped Hugged Heard here This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: Redefining Self-Care 04:22 The Importance of Self-Care for ADHD Brains 05:52 Breaking Down the 8 Self-Care Categories 23:13 Identifying Your Self-Care Needs 26:46 Conclusion: Embracing Imperfect Self-Care

In Episode 308, Social Jet lag & ADHD You Will Discover: What "social jetlag" is and how it can impact your ADHD symptoms How to recognize and work with your body's natural rhythms to help increase energy levels Practical strategies to align your sleep schedule with your natural rhythm, helping you boost focus, reduce overwhelm, and get things done sustainably. Links From The Podcast Learn more about private coaching here Learn more about We're Busy Being Awesome here Get the top 10 tips to work with your ADHD brain (free ebook!) Discover my favorite ADHD resources Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Episode 251: Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, Sleep Hygiene and ADHD Episode 252: Revenge Bedtime Procrastination This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction to Jet Lag and ADHD 01:19 Understanding Social Jet Lag 04:15 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome and ADHD 06:03 Revenge Bedtime Procrastination 09:40 Impact of Social Jet Lag on ADHD 13:31 Strategies to Combat Social Jet Lag 17:21 Practical Tips for Better Sleep

In Episode 307, 5 Reasons People with ADHD Lose Things + How To Stop,  You Will Discover: Why ADHD brains frequently misplace items and learn science-backed strategies to prevent it The crucial transition moments when items most often go missing to stop losing important things How to transform frustrating lost-item searches into insight for effective systems that actually work for your brain Links From The Podcast Learn more about private coaching here Learn more about We're Busy Being Awesome here Get the top 10 tips to work with your ADHD brain (free ebook!) Discover my favorite ADHD resources Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Episode 296: How To Better Use Reminders & Notifications with ADHD Episode 297: How To Use Habit Stacking & Habit Pairing This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: ADHD & Losing Things 02:14 Emotional Impact of Losing Things 06:29 Understanding the ADHD Brain 14:12 Practical Tips and Strategies to Prevent Losing Things 22:01 Iterating and Adapting Systems 25:13 Conclusion and Next Steps