ADHD Organization

Thinking and writing about values is one of my favorite topics for several reasons: It reminds me of how essential it is for me to remind myself of what is important to me, my values. It also helps to inform my work with my clients. It reminds me that my work with my clients is about helping them live their lives based on their values. That is, the purpose of helping them accomplish their goals and the tasks that support these goals is to help them “live their values.” It is not about just crossing “to do” items off a list. It also serves as a cue that I want to be mindful of this each and every day. When I woke this yesterday morning,…

I've just finished reading The Starbuck Experience by Joseph Michelli in which he details the 5 principles that he believes are the underpinning for all of the business decisions that are made by the Starbuck's employees from the CEO to the servers. Initially, I picked up the book because I was interested in the business application of the information. As I began reading, however, the application for those of us with AD/HD became readily apparent. Though I never gave it much thought, in hindsight, I can now say that almost all of the baristas I've encountered at Starbucks have been very welcoming and gracious. I now know that this is, in part, due to the values that they ascribe to and share with their colleagues; some…

In my last post, I wrote about following the rules. I asserted that, as long as you are being intentional and aware of the consequences, you should make the choices that are best for you. Sometimes, like this morning, I don’t follow the rules and I wish I had. Sometimes, as is the case with many ADDers, I just don’t pay attention. So, I thought about these cases. This morning I was trying to finish up my taxes, which I thought would not be that hard. After all, my accountant had clearly listed the instructions and, even put a sticky, “Sign Here,” where I was supposed to sign. In my usual fashion, I skimmed the instructions. I am sure that skimming is not recommended when…

I received the following question from a client this week. “Are you willing to share how you pull yourself out of those “can’t get anything done” spots?” I did my best to answer. What do you do? I’m sure that you can add to this list. Sometimes, I act “as if,” which comes from a Hebrew term I learned. That is I do one thing even if intellectually I’m thinking it does not matter. I set a minimum goal for the day, if I’m not feeling productive. For example, even if I am in a hole, I make sure that I take care of my active clients. It is not enough to keep a business going, but some days are just like that… Other times,…

For people with ADHD, one of the key strategies used to reach goals is accountability to other people. If you have help, could you progress further on your goals than if you are only accountable to yourself? Use the following questions to help you decide. Do you do better when someone is working with you or just keeping you company? Would you be more likely to keep your commitments, if you tell a trusted person of your plans and ask them to check in with you as you progress? Is it helpful for you to talk about your plans aloud? If you are curious, try experimenting. Ask for help from someone who you think will be truly helpful and non judgmental. For people with ADHD…