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1. Reduce resistance by simplifying your environment
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Creating a simplified environment can significantly reduce the resistance to sticking with your habits and routines, especially when unexpected interruptions arise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For ADHD moms, a cluttered space can be a major source of distraction and overwhelm, making it challenging to focus on the task at hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start by decluttering your living and working spaces, removing items that don’t serve a purpose or bring joy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Opt for minimalistic setups where everything has its place, making it easier to maintain order and reduce decision fatigue. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A streamlined environment will minimize distractions and make it more straightforward to pick up where you left off, should an interruption occur.
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Here are 5 easy areas you can declutter quickly:
<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Kitchen Counters:<\/strong> Clear off all but the most used appliances and essentials. A clean counter invites cooking and reduces overwhelm.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Home Office Desk:<\/strong> Keep only the current project and necessary supplies on your desk to focus better.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Entryway:<\/strong> Set up a simple system for shoes, coats, and keys to avoid clutter at the entrance.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Living Room:<\/strong> Limit decorative items and keep only those that make the space feel calming and enjoyable.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Bedroom Nightstands:<\/strong> Remove unnecessary items, leaving only a book, and a lamp.
<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n2. Anticipate interruptions & have a backup plan
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Life is unpredictable, more so for an ADHD mom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By anticipating possible interruptions and having a flexible backup plan, you can navigate through disruptions with less stress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This involves recognizing potential time slots or events that could derail your routine and planning alternative actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if your morning routine is often interrupted, consider waking up a bit earlier to enjoy undisturbed time or have a quicker version of your routine ready to deploy when pressed for time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having a backup plan for your routines will allow you to maintain momentum, even when the unexpected happens.
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Here are 4 ideas for backup plans in your life:
<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Morning Routine Backup<\/strong>: If the usual morning routine is disrupted, have a “mini-routine” that covers just the essentials like brushing teeth and changing clothes. If you usually make a hot breakfast, have some easy grab-and-go options stored in the pantry for just in case. Cereal is usually our backup for breakfast.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Quick Meals:<\/strong>: Have a list of super quick meal ideas or freezer meals ready for days when cooking plans fall through.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Essential Errand List<\/strong>: Keep a prioritized list of errands that can be quickly adjusted. If something urgent comes up, tackle only the top-priority errand to maintain productivity without overextending yourself.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Workout on the Go<\/strong>: Yeah it\u2019s nice to have a designated time to hit the gym everyday but when you\u2019re a busy mom that doesn\u2019t always happen. Walk for 15 minutes and do some crunches during your kid\u2019s afterschool practices as a backup plan.
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- 15-Minute Cleanup<\/strong>: Create a quick cleanup routine that focuses on just the main areas. If guests surprise you, you’re ready in no time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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3. Simplify your routines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The key to sticking with habits and routines amidst interruptions is simplicity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overcomplicated routines are hard to follow even on a good day, and they become nearly impossible when life throws a curveball.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Break down your routines into the most essential tasks that align with your goals and are manageable within your energy levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Focus on creating routines that are flexible and can be adjusted as needed without feeling like you’ve fallen off the bandwagon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This simplification makes it easier to stay on track, even when interruptions occur, because you have a clear, concise set of actions to return to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This BM3 \u2013 what are the three bare minimum tasks you need to do for this routine to be consistently successful.
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Here are my top 5 simple daily routines:
<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Morning bedroom routine<\/strong>: Update daily to-do list, get dressed, make bed
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Morning school-day routine<\/strong>: Wake up kids, make breakfast, make lunches
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Afternoon school-day routine<\/strong>: Pick up kids, drop off at practice, start dinner
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Evening routine<\/strong>: Reset kitchen, reset boys\u2019 bedroom, take a shower
<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Bedtime routine:<\/strong> Put away my clean laundry (Wednesdays only), read a book in bed
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