Imagine the relief of a warm, understanding hand reaching out just when your carefully constructed plans start to crumble under the weight of ADHD. That's the feeling Nikki and Pete aim to instill as they wrap up their series on their new book, "Unapologetically ADHD: A Step-by-Step Framework for Everyday Planning on Your Terms." This week, they tackle the often-dreaded concept of "planning for the future," acknowledging the unique hurdles it presents for those with ADHD.

Forget rigid schedules and unforgiving to-do lists. Nikki and Pete encourage listeners to reimagine their planning systems as a circle of supportive friends, always ready to welcome them back, no matter how long it's been. They offer gentle guidance on recognizing the subtle signs of a system in need of repair – the overflowing inbox, the forgotten calendar, the siren song of the sticky note. But more importantly, they delve into the heart of the matter: the emotional turmoil that often accompanies these struggles. They urge listeners to face those feelings of fear, uncertainty, and shame with compassion, recognizing them as a natural part of the journey.

Pete shares a passage from the book, validating the immense effort it takes to maintain those carefully crafted systems, reminding listeners that "it is not easy. It's never been easy. The dirty truth is that it never will be easy." He celebrates the quiet courage it takes to keep trying, to embrace imperfection, and to find joy in the face of constant challenges.

The episode leaves listeners with a message of hope and self-acceptance. Nikki and Pete remind us that true success lies not in flawlessly executing our plans, but in finding the strength to get back up, dust ourselves off, and embrace the beautiful, messy reality of living "Unapologetically ADHD."

Links & Notes

• Unapologetically ADHD: A Step-by-Step Framework For Everyday Planning On Your Terms
• Dig into the podcast Shownotes Database

• (00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
• (02:05) - Planning
• (07:04) - Warning Signs that your System is Weakening
• (09:44) - Emotions
• (12:21) - A Jeremy Bearimy Refresher
• (18:36) - The Three Definitions of Impossible
• (20:37) - This is ADHD