I'm Busy Being Awesome - Sustainable Productivity for ADHD

If your planner, routine, or fresh system starts to feel weirdly heavy the moment you sit down with it, you're not alone. So many of us with ADHD brains quietly carry a performance frame over our follow-through built on a "pass fail" mindset, where every slip up turns into evidence of failure. In this episode, we explore a simple reframe that helps make sticking with our habits and routines feel lighter, more doable, and more in line with how our brains actually work. In Episode 357, You Will Discover: The sneaky way the performance frame turns planning, routines, and new systems into high-stakes situations for ADHD brains The one-word shift that helps follow-through feel lighter and builds real self-trust over time Why a rough day becomes useful information instead of evidence that something's wrong with you Three reflection questions to help you find the places where a practice frame might bring more freedom this week 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 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 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 hear

✨ Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) If you've ever sat down to plan your day and found your ADHD brain staring at a list where every task seems equally on fire, this episode is for you. Our brains generate urgency signals for nearly everything, and sorting genuine priorities from false ones is one of the harder things we ask our brains to do in real time. In episode 356, we're borrowing from the surprising lens of fire lookouts to walk through four practical checkpoints for deciphering a real priority from false urgency. In Episode 356, You Will Discover: How fire lookouts tell real smoke from pollen plumes, and how we can apply that to ADHD prioritization Four checkpoints for sorting genuine priorities from false urgency What "lightning strike areas" and "high-pollen trees" can teach us about where urgency comes from A simple challenge to help you practice what you learn this week 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 Resources From This Episode: Episode 146: 10 Prioritization Traps That Keep The ADHD Brain Stuck Episode 263: ADHD Prioritization Challenges + 2 Powerful Matrices To Help 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

✨ 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 that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a f

✨ 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 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

✨ 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 fi

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 that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to

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 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 08:5

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 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 Im

👉 Download the free Podcast Roadmap: https://imbusybeingawesome.com/map You've tried every planner, every productivity hack, every "just write it down" system — and none of them stuck. This is because most productivity systems weren't built for the ADHD brain. After 350 episodes and thousands of hours coaching, this is the framework I come back to again and again: Plan, Act, Complete. It's the ADHD productivity system that's both effective and sustainable. In this episode, you'll discover: The 3 stages where ADHD brains get stuck — and the specific traps at each one (time blindness, task initiation, the dreaded "last 5%") Simple supports to move through overwhelm and burnout without white-knuckling it How to honor your energy to ensure sustainable change without ADHD burnout Work With Me: 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 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Resources From This Episode: Episode 146: 10 Prioritization Traps That Keep The ADHD Brain Stuck Episode 219: What Is The ADHD Burnout Cycle? 6 Different Stages Episode 220: 7 Steps To Recover From ADHD Burnout Using 'Low Power Mode' Episode 319: 5 Ways To Stay Motivated After The Dopamine Drop Episode 327: ADHD Mental Fatigue or Resistance? How to Know Which One You're Experiencing Episode 338: I Never Finish Anything! ADHD & The Last 5% Episode 341: The Zeigarnik Effect & ADHD: How to Stop Spinning on Unfinished Tasks Episode 344: Why "Just Start" Never Works: ADHD Task Initiation Explained More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources Learn my Top 10 Tips to Work With

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

"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 Aweso

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 <a href= "https:

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 fi

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 you can relate to the overwhelm of a cluttered inbox, this episode is for you. Today I'm sharing my personal "Inbox Reset" experiment. If you're overwhelmed by email but afraid to unsubscribe because of FOMO (or because your ADHD working memory fears you'll forget that creator exists!), I'm sharing the exact safety net strategy I'm using to let go. In this episode, you will discover: Why we struggle to unsubscribe My "6-Month Rule" for deciding what stays and what goes. The specific Bookmark Trick to support your working memory so you can confidently unsubscribe How changing your physical environment can lower the friction of reading. This isn't about reaching a perfect "Inbox Zero"—it's an experiment in progress to stop the overwhelm and make space for what we actually have the capacity to enjoy. 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 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.

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Check out brain.fm and get a 30-day free trial* Get Chris Bailey's Book Intentional: How to Finish What You Start here 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 peo

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Episode 247: 8 Discreet Emotional Regulation Strategies for ADHD Episode 234: Hyperfocus in Adults with ADHD Episode 296: How to use Reminders & Notifications with ADHD Episode 302: 5 Hacks to Handle Interruptions at Work & Home Episode 229: 10 Reasons for ADHD Emotional Disconnect Episode 149: 5 Core Executive Functions 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 ext

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Get the Alastair Weekly Template Here My favorite Grid Notebook Check out the YouTube video here 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 <a href

👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! In Episode 341 You Will Discover: The Science of "Sticky" Thoughts: What the Zeigarnik Effect is and why unfinished tasks take up twice as much memory space. The Two Types of Loops: How to distinguish between "trivial urgency" (the loops that don't matter) vs. the actual priorities that need a decision. Why We Avoid Closing Them: The link between open loops, perfectionism, and the fear of making the "wrong" decision. Four Actionable Ways to Effectively Close Your Loops: Clear your mind for greater presence, even on low energy 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 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 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 Understanding ADHD Overwhelm 01:09 Introduction to the Zeigarnik Effect 05:48 The Impact of Open Loops on ADHD Brains 08:38 Examples of Open Loops 17:27 Common Categories of Open Loops 21:54 Strategies to Close Open Loops 27:22 Final Takeaways and Resources

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Learn about the Dopamine Menu here Episode 251: Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, Sleep Hygiene and ADHD Episode 327: ADHD Mental Fatigue or Resistance? Episode 284: Signs of ADHD Burnout + Tips to Rethink How You Work https://imbusybeingawesome.com/signs-adhd-burnout/ Find A Helpline (international crisis and support directory) https://findahelpline.com/ Favorite tools and products mentioned Heated blanket → https://amzn.to/4q2CYs7 Weighted blanket → https://amzn.to/3YJvsX0 Weighted eye mask → https://amzn.to/3LiglAK Brown noise machine → https://amzn.to/4axE5va Daylight lamp (10,000 lux) → https://amzn.to/3KLyiHV Research mentioned Research done in the Netherlands (ADHD and seasonal mood swings) → https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16458365/ Vitamin D information (NCCIH) → https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/seasonal-affective-disorder Weighted blankets / deep pressure research → https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7970589/ 2019 bright light therapy study → https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6746555/ Additional Netherlands study reference (via Additude) → [https://www.additudemag.com/winter-depression-adhd-sad-sleep-mood/](<a href="https://ww

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Episode 172: Procrastination, ADHD, and The Intellectual Yes Gretchen Rubin's Abstainer vs Moderator Framework 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 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 January Slump 00:42 Understanding Resistance and Growth 02:48 Why Growth Feels Uncomfortable 05:57 Facing Uncomfortable Truths 07:42 Identity Loss and Grief in Change 09:03 Biological Resistance to Change 11:16 Making Lasting Change: Full Body Yes 16:24 Choosing Your Approach:

👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) Do you want a do-over on the New Year's energy this year? If you found that January somehow got away from you, and your intentions to map out your goals derailed... SAME. I'm right there with you. Here is the truth: Transitions are incredibly hard for the ADHD brain. Moving from the chaos of the holidays into a high-pressure "New Year" is a massive transition that we often underestimate. So, I've decided that January was simply my "transition month." In this bonus episode you will discover: Why January feels so hard for ADHD brains The "Q1 = 2/1" mindset shift that gives you a fresh start How to use the "Word of the Year" as a decision-making anchor The "Good, Better, Best" goal framework to keep momentum without perfectionism One Tiny First Step: If the whole year feels too big right now, just ask yourself: What is one quality I want to cultivate in February? That's it. Start there. Ready for more support? If you want the accountability to actually stick with your plans this time, I'd love to have you in the January cohort of We're Busy Being Awesome. We kick off right at the start of our new Q1 (Jan 29th)! https://imbusybeingawesome.com/group Other Ways To Work With Paula: Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains Learn more about private coaching here Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Get your word of the year workbook here 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

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 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 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 Introduc

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 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 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 Struggle with Deadlines 01:41 Why Traditional Due Dates Fail ADHD Brains 05:29 Introducing 'Doing Dates' 07:54 Building Momentum with Doing Dates 12:03 Flexible Structures for Doing Dates 17:22 Breaking Down Projects into Manageable Steps 20:06 Buffer Time and Sustainable Systems 21:42 Applying Doing Dates to Your One Thing 25:07 Conclusion and Next Steps

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Discover your Overwhelm Type (Free Quiz!) 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 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 Planner Struggle 01:48 Understanding ADHD and Traditional Scheduling 05:08 A New Approach: Iteration Mindset 11:20 The Iterative Cycle: Practical Steps 15:04 Embracing Flexibility and Overcoming Obstacles 25:35 Conclusion and Next Steps

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. 💜 Work With Me: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Gary Keller's The One Thing Episode 138: Too Many Ideas? Stay Focused with ADHD Brilliant Ideas List Free Brilliant Ideas List Template 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 t

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Episode 281: How to take time to rest as an ADHD adult Episode 245: 7 types of rest to recover from ADHD burnout Episode 309: 8 types of real self-care for adults with ADHD Episode 278: How to create an ADHD dopamine menu + free template Episode 199: Parallel tasking and ADHD: how to reduce distractions The Relaxed Woman by Nicola Jane Hobbs 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. Sim

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Paula's weighted blanket Paula's blue light blocking glasses Paula's red light night lights Philips hue bulbs Paula's favorite lavender face cream Paula's favorite eucalyptus spearmint lotion Episode 251 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome Episode 252: Revenge Bedtime Procrastination Episode 313: 10 Real-Life ADHD Tips to Wake Up & Get Out of Bed Easier Episode 308: Social Jet Lag & ADHD Episode 182: How to Slow Your Brain Down & Pause with ADHD 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.</

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Episode 150 - How To Get Started With Something: Use This Time Management Technique Episode 266: Mind Mapping for the ADHD Brain Mike Schmidt PKM Note Taking Approach Tiago Forte Para Method and Note taking 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 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.

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: 👉 Discover Your ADHD Overwhelm Type - Free Quiz! 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here Resources From This Episode: Self Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Neff Fierce Self-Compassion: How to Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Your Power, and Thrive by Dr. Neff 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 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 Struggle with Patience 01:03 Understanding ADHD and Impatience 04:05 The Impatience Trap 10:04 The Radical Mindset Shift 21:20 Strategies for Building Patience 28:50 Conclusion and Recap

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: 👉 Enroll in Overwhelm to Action - step by step course for ADHD Brains 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Discover your Overwhelm Type (Free Quiz!) Holiday Season Blueprint 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 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: People Pleasing, ADHD, and the Holidays 01:37 Reflecting on People Pleasing Patterns 03:14 Step 1: Pre-Holiday Audit and Intention Setting 07:15 Step 2: Practicing the Pause 11:24 Step 3: The Good Enough Manifesto 13:36 Step 4: Recharge Strategies for Sensory Overload 17:03 Step 5: The Kind No and Yes If Compromise 21:16 Conclusion and Final T

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 👉 Take the Overwhelm Type Quiz here! Resources From This Episode: Episode 139 - What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: What Does RSD Look Like in ADHD? Episode 140 - How to Deal with ADHD 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 Holiday Dilemma<

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: 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Discover your Overwhelm Type (Free Quiz!) Episode on Self-Compassion Episode 145: How To Overcome Intrusive Thoughts When You Have ADHD Burnout by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski 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 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: Holiday Stress and ADHD 02:18 Understanding the Holiday Stress Curve 08:46 Strategy 1: Good, Better, Best Framework 12:55 Strategy 2: What If It Were Easy? 15:39 Strategy 3: If-Then Planning 19:10 Strategy 4: Navigating the Peak Phase - Completing the Stress Cycle 23:55 Strategy 5: Post-Holiday Crash - Practicing Radical Self-Compassion 27:42 Conclusion

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: 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Free Quiz: Discover your ADHD Overwhelm 🎉 Episode 287: ADHD Energy Type 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 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: Understanding ADHD Fatigue 01:08 Exploring Mental Fatigue vs. Resistance 01:58 Energy Awareness in ADHD 04:12 The Push-Pull Dilemma 09:42 The Clarifying Question 11:23 Real-Time Application

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: 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode 219: ADHD Burnout Cycle Episode 234: Hyperfocus in Adults with ADHD Episode 287: ADHD Energy Type My favorite Weighted Eye Mask: Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask Yerkes–Dodson Law explained ADHD and hyperfocus research 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 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!

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. 👉 Take the quiz now » Take This Work Deeper If you're ready to take what we discussed and apply it to your real life — with structure, accountability, and compassion — check out these ways we can work together: 👉 Join us in Overwhelm to Action here 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode 296: Why ADHD Brains Stop Noticing Reminders — and How to Fix It Episode 297: The Power of Habit Pairing & Stacking Free ADHD Routine Revamp Course: Learn my step-by-step approach to creating a routine that sticks.: Learn my step-by-step approach to creating a routine that sticks. Pill organizer - keeps medications visible and organized ADHD Planning System - helps maintain visual reminders Tech docking stations - dedicated homes for devices 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 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 p

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Take the quiz here! Episode 262: Front End vs. Back End Perfectionism 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 Understanding Overwhelm 05:50 Recognizing Overwhelm Patterns 08:25 The Four Overwhelm Types 18:44 Discover Your Overwhelm Type 19:50 Next Steps

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: What's Your Overwhelm Type Free Quiz 2-Part Episode 268 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 Trap of Doubtful Thinking 01:57 The Sneaky Thought: Let's See How Long This Lasts 03:47 Why This Thought is a Trap 08:28 Identity-Based Habits: A Powerful Shift 12:14 Practical Strategies for Lasting Habits 15:37 Conclusion and Next Steps

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Free Quiz: Discover your Overwhelm Response Type 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 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: Projects as Credit Cards 03:08 Understanding High Interest Projects 05:33 Identifying Your High Interest Projects 06:35 Minimum Payments: Keeping Projects in Good Standing 08:52 Choosing Your Payoff Style: Avalanche vs. Snowball 10:28 Real-Life Scenarios: Avalanche Method 12:16 Real-Life Scenarios: Snowball Method 16:25 Creating a Repeatable Plan 18:54 Conclusion: Applying the Credit Card Analogy 20:24 Final Thoughts Resources

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Free Quiz: What's Your Overwhelm Type? Episode 270: How to Stop Beating Yourself Up Over Past Mistakes 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 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 Overwhelm and ADHD 02:46 The True Cost of Overwhelm 05:15 Recognizing Overwhelm Patterns 06:19 Emotional, Physical, and Practical Toll of Overwhelm 10:46 Reflecting on Personal Overwhelm 11:48 Reframing Overwhelm as a Signal 14:39 Practicing Self-Compassion 18:26 Cultivating a Growth Mindset 22:39 What's Your Overwhelm Response Type?

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman The One Thing by Gary Keller Slow Productivity by Cal Newport Start Finishing by Charlie Gilkey Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Le Cunff Episode 315: 8 Must-Read Books for Women with ADHD Episode 310: The Work is Never Done + Accepting Unfinished Work Episode 306: The Link Between the 'Insecure Overachiever' and ADHD Episode 288: How To Master ADHD Goal Setting by Energy Type Episode 287: ADHD Energy Type: Are You a Thoroughbred or Workhorse Episode 150: How to Get Started with Something - Thinking In Containers of Time 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

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode 287: ADHD Energy Type: Are You a Thoroughbred or Workhorse Episode 288: How To Master ADHD Goal Setting by Energy Type 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 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 Dopamine Drop 01:23 Welcome Back: September Energy 02:10 The Planning Phase: Ideal Schedules 05:00 Understanding the Dopamine Drop 11:19 Strategies to Overcome the Dopamine Drop 17:57 Conclusion: Embrace the Process

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode #203: Creating Your Perfect Schedule – When You Have ADHD Get your Personalized Dopamine Workbook here! 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 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 and Fresh Start Energy 02:01 The Allure of New Tools 09:29 The Real Cost of Switching Systems 13:17 Assigning Roles to Your Tools 21:24 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode 311: How to Restart Your Day with the Next 5 Reset Get your time blocking workbook here 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 Links From The Podcast 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 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. Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: The Flawed Productivity Mantra 02:26 Listener Shoutout 03:27 The Reality of ADHD and Productivity 06:44 Redefining 'Work Your Plan' for ADHD Brains 09:25 The Farming Metaphor: Tending to Your Plan 14:04 Practi

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Episode 125, No-Decision Decisions Episode 172, Procrastination, ADHD, and Intellectual Yes More ADHD Resources: 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 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 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: Embracing the Fall Season 02:02 The Fall Dilemma: Overwhelm and Excitement 03:09 Understanding ADHD and Fall Overwhelm 10:22 Reflection Exercise: Visualizing Your Ideal Fall 12:56 The FALL Framework 21:03 Practical Tips for a Joyful Fall 22:57 Conclusion: Creating a Fulfilling Fall 24:51 Final Thoughts and Resources

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schafler Your Brain's Not Broken by Tamara Rosier ADHD 2.0 by Edward Hallowell 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,

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Get the physical copy of your Count Your Wins journal here Get the PDF version of Count Your Wins here 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 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 02:51 Struggles with Celebrating Success 04:59 Common Experiences of Dismissing Wins 06:21 Understanding Success Amnesia and ADHD 11:24 The Discomfort of Acknowledging Achievements 22:48 Strategies to Recognize and Celebrate Wins 32:29 Conclusion and Next Steps

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching   Resources from this episode: Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Sleep Episode Deep Dives: Revenge bedtime procrastination Delayed sleep phase syndrome Social jet lag BedJet Blue Light Blockers Some Lines A Day Philips Wake Up Light Kindle   More ADHD Resources: 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   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 pa

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: 👉 Join We're Busy Being Awesome (group coaching) 👉 Learn more about private coaching here Resources From This Episode: Download your free Dopamine Menu Templates Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Dr. Stuart Brown Listen to Episode 223: 8 Play Personality Types More ADHD Resources: Discover my favorite ADHD resources 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 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 Importance of Play for Adults 00:51 Challenging Perceptions of Play 02:30 The Benefits of Play for ADHD Brains 05:07 Regulating the Nervous System Through Play <l

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 👉 Sign up for my next ADHD Small Group Coaching Program: We're Busy Being Awesome Learn more about private coaching 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 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 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 All or Nothing Thinking 01:48 Paula's Story: Academia and Time Management 04:35 Understanding the All or Nothing Mindset 07:30 ADHD Traits Amplifying All or Nothing Thinking 11:40 The Impact of Going "Off Track" 15:19 Introducing the Next Five or Ten Reset 16:38 Practical Steps for Implementing the Reset

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 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