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Why Daily Planning is So Important for Adults with ADD
by Jennifer Koretsky
For adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), details are a
drag. We tend to see the big picture and want to jump straight to
the finish line, wishing we could skip all the steps in between.
Unfortunately, this perspective often causes us to become overwhelmed
when it's time to start a project. We know where we want to end up,
but we don't know where to start.
Looking for something else?
The same is true for day-to-day life. Adults with ADD often start
the day knowing what should ideally get accomplished, but not sure
where to begin or how to prioritize. This often leads to stress and
guilt, which can spiral into more bad feelings, and less action.
In order to avoid this scenario, adults with ADD can learn to make
daily planning a routine.
Here are 3 Easy Steps One Can Take to Develop a Daily Planning Routine
1. Plan the Time to Plan
Decide on a time of day when you can consistently take 15 minutes to
plan. It can be a set time (8:00 PM) or simply "right before bed."
Most adults with ADD find that the best time to plan is late in the
day, when they are more alert. This works easily, as you can plan
for the following day rather than stressing about it before you go to
sleep!
2. Review Your To-Do List
If you don't already use a to-do list, create one! Review it during
each planning session so that you can see not only what you have to
do, but also what you have actually accomplished during the day.
Re-write your to-do list, removing completed items and adding things
that came up during the day. Move the most important and urgent
tasks to the top of the list. Break large projects into 3-5 steps
that all go on the list.
3. Review Your Calendar
Take a look at your daily planner (you are using one, I hope!) See
what appointments you have scheduled the next day. Block off the
times in your planner, along with your travel time. Then, begin to
schedule in time for the tasks on your to-do list.
Taking just 15 minutes a day to plan alleviates much of the day-to-
day stress of life with ADD, and helps adults move forward.
About the Author:
Jennifer Koretsky is a Professional ADD Management Coach who helps
adults manage their ADD and move forward in life. She encourages
clients to increase self-awareness, focus on strengths and talents,
and create realistic action plans. She offers a 90-day intensive
skill-building program, workshops, and private coaching. Her work has
been featured in numerous media, including The New York Times
Magazine and The Times (UK). To subscribe to Jennifer's free email
newsletter, The ADD Management Guide, please visit
www.addmanagement.com/e-newsletter.htm
