Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
The ADHD-Productivity Trap with Ari Tuckman, Psy.D, CST
May 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ari Tuckman, a clinical psychologist and ADHD expert, dives into the intricate dynamics of productivity and ADHD. He highlights the paradox of wanting to be productive while feeling stuck in self-blame. Tuckman shares insights from his book on the myth of the perfect planner and the nuanced relationship with to-do lists. Emphasizing self-honesty, he encourages listeners to reevaluate their priorities and the pressures of perfectionism, ultimately redefining what true productivity means.
39:15
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Quick takeaways
- The paradox of productivity for individuals with ADHD lies in their desire to achieve while grappling with self-blame for not doing enough.
- Effective productivity management involves not just tools but also understanding emotional barriers and setting healthy boundaries in social contexts.
Deep dives
Understanding the Trap of Productivity
Individuals with ADHD often struggle with the concept of productivity, where the societal pressures to be productive can lead to frustration and a sense of inadequacy. Dr. Ari Tuchman highlights that while ADHD does not create new productivity challenges, it amplifies pre-existing issues, such as poor time tracking and distractibility. This often results in individuals focusing on immediate, distracting activities instead of tasks that require forward planning. Consequently, the struggle is not just about managing tasks, but also about addressing the emotional baggage tied to productivity expectations.
