Doing Hard Things
When you have ADHD, it can be hard to have confidence. There is so much that seems hard to do. However, we can do hard things. It is possible. When you find yourself facing a seemingly impossible challenge remember these things.
Mental Attitude
The first thing you need to overcome in your journey to accomplishing the hard things is your mindset. There is an old expression sometimes attributed to Henry Ford (although, that may not be accurate) that says, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” The reason this aphorism is so popular is that it speaks to a great truth. When you believe you can do something, you are more likely to accomplish it, and when you think you can’t do something, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. So, if you want to do something hard, take a look at your attitude.
Also, remember that scientists have determined that it is impossible for bumble bees to fly, but they fly anyway. If the bumble bee can do the impossible, then you can do the hard thing.
Getting into Action
Believing you can do a thing is one thing, but actually getting started is another thing. ADHDers struggle with task initiation, and this struggle is even more pronounced when the task is hard (or appears hard). However, it is possible to get started. Try some of these suggestions or these. Break it down. You do not have to do everything at once. Look at the task as several small tasks. Getting started is easier when you are only looking at a small section of the task. Take it easy on yourself, and find what works for you.
Finishing
Now, once you have started, you have to persist and finish. When the task is hard, it is hard to persevere. One thing you can do to counteract that struggle is to tell someone else what you are doing. That way, they can check in on you and ask for updates.
When you are in the midst of a task and it seems insurmountable, remember that you can do it. But also, remember that it is okay to take a brief break. Your brain will thank you for the break.
Lastly, another thing you can do to help you accomplish hard tasks is to hire a coach. The above suggestions are general ideas that could apply to anyone, but everyone has their own flavor of ADHD. Your specific struggles will differ from mine, and both our struggles will be different from everyone else with ADHD. These ideas are just guidelines. I totally recognize that simply reading this blog post will not solve your problems with doing hard things. It takes a unique, directed approach. So, if you are wanting to take your productivity to the next level, really do consider coaching. I believe in the power of coaching, and I think it is a tremendous gift to give yourself.