I recently recorded a podcast episode with my friend Skye Waterson from Unconventional Organisation.. and it got me thinking. A lot. Like, wayyyy too much. 😵💫We were talking about boring tasks… and why those tasks are often the most difficult for us as ADHDers. It led me down a rabbit hole and I’m here to share the treasure from that journey. 😂
Additude Magazine explained it well here: “The brains of people with ADHD are always seeking interest, more physical or mental stimulation. When they are keenly interested in something, they focus on that, and suddenly the executive function of their brain seems to work well. Attention is activated best in moments of newness; boring tasks are hard to stay with. Interest keeps us going.”
I know that when I have a boring task on my to-do list, it typically ends up at the bottom of the list time and time again.
Here are a few things you can try if you’re struggling with that pesky boring task on your list:
Break it down: Divide the task into smaller, more manageable subtasks. This helps prevent overwhelming feelings and allows you to focus on one step at a time.
Set a timer: Use the Pomodoro Technique or a similar method to work in short bursts of focused activity. Set a timer for 25 minutes of work, followed by a short break. Repeat this cycle to maintain productivity and alleviate boredom.
🌟Hot tip: I’m really loving Llamalife for this - I’ve used it every day for weeks and that’s a record over here! 😉
Make it interactive: Inject elements of creativity or engagement into the task. For example, you can turn boring paperwork into a challenge by timing yourself or creating a game-like approach to completing it.
🌟Hot tip: Check out Dani Donovan’s Book “The Anti-Planner” for tons of creative ways to make tasks fun again. I LOVE this book.
Utilize external aids: Consider using organizational tools, such as task management apps or reminders, to help stay on track. Breaking tasks into visual charts or checklists can also provide a sense of accomplishment as you make progress.
🌟Hot tip: I’m a big fan of Sunsama to help me prioritize my to-do list. Check out Sunsama here
In this podcast episode, I chat with ADHD Coach and Founder of Unconventional Organisation, Skye Waterson, and we deep dive into why boring is so hard for ADHDers. Skye gives some great tips on how to tackle those pesky boring tasks.
