The Art of Consistency: Mastering the ADHD Rollercoaster

I realized last week that I didn’t do my blog post. Totally forgot to do it. So I thought consistency would be a great topic to cover in this month’s blog post. Ha!

Consistency can feel like a foreign concept when you’re living with ADHD. With our minds constantly jumping from one thought to another and our energy levels fluctuating, it’s no wonder that maintaining a steady routine often seems impossible. But fear not, my fellow ADHD Divas! With a few clever strategies, you can find consistency in your life and reap the rewards it brings. Let’s dive into some tips that will help you develop a steady rhythm in your ADHD journey.

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that consistency doesn’t necessarily mean sticking to a rigid schedule. Some of us downright reject rigid schedules (ask me how I know – ha!). For those of us with ADHD, our natural rhythm may be more fluid and adaptive. Embrace your unique ADHD flow and work with it instead of against it. The key is to find a balance that allows you to be productive while honoring your individual needs.

Developing routines that are tailored to your ADHD can make a world of difference when it comes to consistency. Break down your day into smaller segments, focusing on specific tasks or activities for each time block. Make sure to schedule breaks and buffer zones (between appointments for example) to accommodate the inevitable distractions and fluctuations in energy levels. Remember, the goal is to create a routine that feels natural and sustainable for YOU.

We are a “Go Big or Go Home, All or Nothing” kind of people, which can lead to great things! However, when living with ADHD, it’s all too easy to get overwhelmed by ambitious goals. Instead, focus on breaking big goals into smaller, achievable objectives that can be accomplished in a shorter time frame. This will help you maintain momentum and provide a sense of accomplishment, making staying consistent in your efforts easier.

Visual aids can be a game-changer for those with ADHD. Use calendars or apps to keep track of your tasks and routines, for example. Or visual timers to keep our time blindness in check. Place reminders in prominent locations to ensure that they’re always within sight. Having a constant visual reference makes it much easier to stay on track and maintain consistency in your daily life.

Surrounding yourself with supportive people who understand the challenges of ADHD can make all the difference. Whether it’s a friend, family member, coach, or support group, having someone to hold you accountable and cheer you on can be invaluable in staying consistent. Plus, you’ll likely pick up some helpful tips and strategies from others who’ve been in your shoes.

Lastly, remember that consistency is a journey, not a destination. There will be days when things don’t go as planned, and that’s okay. When you realize you forgot to write your blog post for the month, for example, it’s important to be kind to yourself and recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the process. Instead of dwelling on your perceived failures, focus on learning from them and moving forward. As you are figuring out what works for you remember – don’t judge yourself. Be curious about yourself. It leads to much better answers!

Achieving consistency with ADHD might seem like a Herculean task, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible. By embracing your unique ADHD rhythm, creating tailored routines, setting achievable goals, using visual aids, finding support, and practicing self-compassion, you can build a steady foundation for a more balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, you are not defined by your ADHD; it’s just one aspect of your incredible journey. So go forth, embrace your strengths, and conquer the world of consistency!