What if constant productivity is just a trap? The hosts explore the emotional toll of perfectionism and the societal pressure to always be achieving. They share personal stories of self-compassion and redefine what productivity means, emphasizing the value of everyday accomplishments. AI tools and practical strategies help navigate the chaotic landscape of ADHD, while the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over output takes center stage. Embrace imperfection and let go of the pressure to perform!
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Prioritize Urgent vs Noise
Differentiate urgent tasks from noise to prioritize effectively.
Accept that not everything is urgent and focus on what truly matters to avoid overwhelm.
insights INSIGHT
Less Pressure Boosts Productivity
Lowering the pressure to be productive increases actual productivity.
Setting realistic daily goals boosts achievement and mood.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Schedule Time for Important Tasks
Block time to work on important but non-urgent "green tasks".
Use intentional planning to prevent these tasks from being perpetually delayed.
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What if the relentless chase for productivity isn’t a sign of progress—but a trap?
This week on Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast, Pete and Nikki return to the idea they began exploring with Dr. Ari Tuckman: the Productivity Trap—a psychological cul-de-sac where effort doesn’t equal accomplishment, and perfectionism becomes performance. But this isn’t just about missed deadlines or overloaded to-do lists. It’s about identity. About shame. About what it means to be “enough” in a world that rarely says you are.
From a deceptively simple mantra—“You don’t have to be productive all the time”—springs a story of emotional reckoning. Pete recounts how Nikki’s offhand remark evolved into a viral merch moment, while Nikki shares coaching experiences that reveal the heartbreak (and humor) of managing ADHD in a culture obsessed with output. They dissect the nuance between urgent and important, spotlight how AI can support executive function, and confront the myth that productivity is linear.
This is not a conversation about how to get more done. It’s a conversation about why we believe we must.
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(02:26) - Support the Show on Patreon!
(03:04) - Merch Announcement!
(05:42) - The Productivity Trap
🎯 Ready to turn your planning chaos into clarity? Take a look at Guided Planning Sessions (GPS)—from getting started to mastering your weekly routines. Whether you’re just picking your tools or refining a system that finally sticks, GPS gives you the structure, support, and community you need to make it happen. Explore more and join today at TakeControlADHD.com/GPS.
Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast