Updates from Donae Cannon

Time management can be particularly challenging for those with ADHD due to a unique perception of time, which often feels more like guessing than knowing. While traditional tools like planners provide a starting point, they might not fully support individuals with ADHD who struggle with a reliable sense of time. This gap can make everyday tasks, from arriving on time to completing projects, more complex without additional strategies to bridge their time perception.

Integrating sensory tools into time management can significantly benefit those with ADHD. For instance, using visual aids such as timers or sticky notes helps to physically represent time, making it more tangible and easier to track. Similarly, auditory aids like personalized playlists can cue the passage of time more effectively than standard alarms, assisting in internalizing the progression of minutes or hours.

By connecting time to sensory experiences, individuals can better manage task initiation, transitions, and the tracking of time. Physical representations of time can help prevent the all-too-common surprise of realizing how time has flown by, thereby making daily transitions smoother. This approach not only eases the challenge of starting tasks but also minimizes overwhelm, offering a practical solution for those struggling with traditional time management techniques.

When starting a new habit, the real task isn't what you might initially think. The process is less about the specific activity—like running, meditating, or studying—and more about shifting the action from something you consciously decide to do to something you do automatically. This transition requires significant effort as you're working on integrating this behavior into your routine seamlessly.

To foster a lasting habit, it's crucial to begin with actions so small that they're almost impossible not to do. Instead of waiting for motivation to begin with significant demands—like 45 minutes of running immediately—start with modest goals such as running for just one minute. This approach helps create the necessary space for the habit to grow its roots, making transitions to more extended periods more intuitive over time.

This method applies to any habit: whether it's studying, meditating, or managing daily emails, beginning with tiny increments encourages consistency and sustainability. Starting small ensures that the action becomes habitual, making it easier to incrementally increase the load and maintain the habit long-term. By doing so, you set the foundation for successful, enduring habits.