Want to watch me do this instead of read about it? Watch here. Or, listen to the episode below:
So at this point, we know that ADHD is just a different way the brain works. We need to be able to visualize things, we can’t be trusted to “just remember” shit, and we have a better chance of curing diarrhea with magic than knowing how to prioritize. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with us — it just means that we need to think about things differently.
See, the reason that things like simple to-do’s don’t always work for us is simple: we’ve just slapped down what’s in our head at the moment, which doesn’t promise consideration of priorities, prior engagements, or any of the other stuff we may need to take into account. Even if we’ve built a pretty good productivity ring, we’re still open to overwhelm with all the things we have left to do.
This is where one of my favorite methods comes in: Task Stacking.
It’s a simple process that’ll take me longer to type than it will for you to execute — especially once you get the hang of it. But hey…let’s run through these 3 simple steps anyway:
First: Consider your Non-Negotiables
At the start of each week, grab your calendar, your planner, or maybe the ClickUp ADHD Task Planner I have available (coughcough) and look at your week. Start by entering in those tasks that can’t be moved or changed. This category includes:
- Appointments
- Personal time
- Project deadlines
- Classes
You get the idea. These are things that are long-standing and cannot be changed, or at least can’t be changed without a lot of hassle and possible life problems. They’re highest priority, and therefore get first dibs.
Next: Add in the things you MOST want to get done that week
These would be things that you really, really want/need to make time for. This can be things like:
- A new habit you want to start
- A stage or small part of a larger project
- Certain timely chores
Insert these into your schedule wherever you’d hope to have them done by. Make sure to include about 30 minutes before and after larger tasks, to ensure you have room for Murphy’s Law days or things that happen to run over their allotted time.
Lastly: Insert those tasks that can get done this week, but that don’t particularly have to.
These are things that you know should get done eventually, but that don’t stop your forward motion if they have to be put off. You won’t be unhappy necessarily if it doesn’t get done; you’ll just keep it in mind for when you have the time.
In the end, it’s all about prioritization and visualization.
Being able to keep track of what actually has to be done, versus what your brain is telling you has to be done, is hugely helpful in lowering your stress and anxiety. We often tend to feel like we’re MUCH more behind than we are, and methodically stacking your tasks is one way to actually SEE where you are in the scheme of things.
That’s all I’ve got for you today — so get out there and get stacking!
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