Recognize tasks may be challenging despite appearing easy, redefine what 'hard' means to avoid judgement and increase effort.
Define 'done' for tasks based on functionality, adapt to practical solutions like using bins instead of folding for laundry.
Deep dives
Acknowledging the Difficulty of Tasks
It's essential to recognize that tasks can be challenging, even if they seem simple or easy on the surface. The episode emphasizes the importance of defining what constitutes a hard task, highlighting that our self-perception can lead to judgement and feelings of failure when tasks are not as straightforward as expected. By acknowledging the actual level of difficulty involved, individuals can approach tasks more realistically and allocate appropriate effort and attention to them, ultimately reframing the narrative around perceived easiness.
Defining 'Done' and Functional Solutions
The podcast underscores the significance of defining what completion or success looks like for a task. It encourages listeners to consider the functional aspects of tasks and to align their definitions of 'done' with what is practical and beneficial for their daily lives. The example of dealing with laundry illustrates how redefining 'done' can lead to more sustainable solutions, such as opting for functional alternatives like using bins instead of conventional folding methods.
Accountability and Individualized Approaches
Accountability is highlighted as a valuable tool for focusing attention on tasks and ensuring follow-through. The episode suggests that individualized approaches are key to addressing challenges effectively, emphasizing the need to identify unique solutions that work with one's cognitive processes and lifestyle. By reframing the understanding of what constitutes difficulty and success, individuals can approach tasks more strategically and enhance their problem-solving abilities.
One of my favorite sayings from Brendan Mahan of the ADHD Essentials podcast is that ADHD is life on Hard Mode.
The executive dysfunction that comes with ADHD makes everything just a little bit more difficult. From doing the dishes to filling out tax returns we find ourselves needing to put in more effort than our neurotypical peers.
But what’s important for us to remember is that while these things can absolutely be harder for us to do, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Today we’re going to be exploring this idea of doing hard things - what makes something difficult and how we can work on moving ourselves through that process. Support me on Patreon Connect with me on: TwitterTiktok or ask me a question on my Contact Page Find the show note at HackingYourADHD.com/hardthingsThis Episode's Top Tips
It is important for us to define what we find being hard because when we choose to believe something should be easy we tend not to give it the attention that it deserves.
Our problems can’t be solved until we acknowledge them as problems - but also can’t solve those problems unless we put forward the effort of defining them and acknowledging the underlying issues.
Define what done looks like for a task and be sure to be mindful of how that can be functional in your life.
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