Welcome to the ADHD creative’s guide to productivity! If you’re like me, you understand that staying on task is about as easy as herding cats or explaining quantum physics to a toddler. But fear not, because I’ve compiled a list of my top productivity hacks that help me (mostly) stay on track. So grab your favorite beverage (mine’s coffee—lots and lots of coffee), and let’s dive in!
1. The Mighty To-Do List: Master of Disguise
Ah, the to-do list. Simple, effective, and yet somehow always manages to get lost in the chaos of my desk. But here’s the trick: make your to-do list look like a piece of art! Use colorful pens, stickers, and doodles to turn it into something visually appealing. If it looks fun, you’re more likely to look at it, right? Plus, it’s a great excuse to buy more stationery. Win-win!
2. Time Blocking: Pretend You’re a Time Management Guru
Time blocking is like setting an appointment with yourself. “From 9 to 10 AM, I shall write. From 10 to 11, I will ignore emails.” The key is to use a timer and stick to it—well, as best as you can. I use the Pomodoro Technique, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. It’s amazing how much you can get done in 25 minutes when you know a break is just around the corner.
3. The Magic of Apps: Because Analog is Overrated
There are a ton of apps designed to help scatterbrained creatives like us. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Trello: Perfect for visual thinkers, Trello lets you organize tasks into boards and cards. I use it to map out projects, track progress, and occasionally marvel at my own organizational prowess.
- Forest: This app helps you stay off your phone by growing a virtual tree for every session of focused work. If you leave the app, your tree dies. Nothing like a little digital guilt to keep you on task!
- Evernote: Great for capturing ideas on the fly. Whether it’s a sudden burst of inspiration or a grocery list, Evernote keeps everything in one place.
4. Environmental Adjustments: Setting the Stage for Success
Your workspace should inspire you, not distract you. Here’s how to set the stage:
- Declutter (ish): Aim for a “creative mess” rather than an “episode of Hoarders.” Keep essentials within reach and everything else in organized chaos.
- Background Noise: Total silence is a no-go for me. I recommend instrumental music, white noise, or those fantastic lo-fi hip hop beats that make you feel like a study genius. Try Brain.fm for scientifically engineered focus music that promises to keep your brain in the zone.
5. The Buddy System: Accountability with a Side of Fun
Find a fellow creative friend who’s equally prone to distraction and hold each other accountable. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, brainstorm ideas, and commiserate over missed deadlines. It’s like having a gym buddy, but for your brain.
6. Reward Yourself: Because Bribery Works
Set small goals and reward
Soul Scribbles 
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