ADHD Superpowers: How Top Executives Master Time

I am a high achiever. That is neither a surprise nor a secret.

What might be less obvious is that I, like many other successful professionals, navigate the complexities of ADHD every day. Time blindness, a common challenge for those with ADHD, can be particularly tricky in this modern time.

Things have always moved fast in business but it feels like post-Covid, we are also trying to make up for lost time.

In this article, I'll share the strategies that have helped me and other high-functioning leaders not just manage, but thrive with ADHD in the workplace. These aren't just coping mechanisms; they're powerful tools that can give you an edge in today's dynamic business environment.

1. Visual Timers: Making Time Tangible

For those of us with ADHD, time can be an abstract concept. That's why making it visual and tangible is crucial. I've found that using visual timers can be a game-changer. Here's how I implement this:

• Digital Dashboard: I use a customized digital dashboard on my second monitor that displays multiple timers for different tasks and projects.
• Color-Coded Time Blocks: My calendar isn't just a schedule; it's a vibrant visual representation of my day, with different colors representing various types of tasks or energy levels required.
• Physical Hourglasses: For important meetings or brainstorming sessions, I sometimes use beautiful, tactile hourglasses. There's something powerful about watching sand fall that keeps me grounded in the present moment.

2. Task Segmentation: The Art of Strategic Chunking

Large projects can be overwhelming, even for the most ambitious among us. That's why I've mastered the art of strategic chunking. Here's my approach:

• Mind Mapping: I start each big project with a detailed mind map, breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks.
• Microtasks: I break tasks down into their smallest possible components. Sometimes, a task on my list might take only 5 minutes to complete, sometimes just one.
• Progressive Deadlines: Instead of one big deadline, I create a series of smaller milestones. This keeps the momentum going and provides regular doses of accomplishment.

3. Tangible Time Management: The Power of Pen and Paper

While digital tools have their place, I've found that the tactile nature of pen and paper is irreplaceable for managing my time effectively. Here's how I leverage physical planning tools:

• Bullet Journaling: I use a customized bullet journal system that combines my calendar, to-do lists, and notes in one place. The act of physically writing down tasks and appointments helps cement them in my memory.
• Color-Coding: I use different colored pens to categorize tasks and appointments. For example, red for urgent matters, blue for creative work, green for meetings. This visual system helps me quickly grasp my day's structure at a glance.
• Weekly Planner Ritual: Every Sunday evening, I have a ritual of sitting down with my planner to map out the upcoming week. This hands-on process helps me mentally prepare and reduces anxiety about pending tasks.
• Sticky Note Task List: I keep a small stack of colorful sticky notes on my desk. Each morning, I write my top 3-5 priorities for the day on a note and stick it where I can't miss it – often right on my computer screen.
• Paper Trail: I maintain a paper trail of completed tasks by crossing them off rather than erasing them. This gives me a visual record of my productivity, which can be motivating on challenging days.
• Digital Backup: While I primarily rely on my paper system, I do use digital calendars as a backup and for sharing my availability with others. After my weekly planning session, I quickly update my digital calendar to ensure it's in sync with my paper planner.

This hybrid system combines the memory-reinforcing and tactile benefits of writing with the convenience of digital sharing. It ensures that my schedule is always at my fingertips – quite literally – while still maintaining the flexibility to coordinate with others in our increasingly digital world.

4. Prioritization Techniques: Riding the Waves of Hyperfocus

ADHD often comes with the superpower of hyperfocus. The trick is learning how to channel it effectively. These are my go-to techniques:

• Modified Pomodoro: I use a modified Pomodoro technique with longer focus periods (40-50 minutes) when I'm in a state of flow. But most of the time I stick to 10 or 15-minute sprints.
• Energy Mapping: I schedule high-priority, complex tasks during my peak energy hours, saving routine tasks for when my focus naturally dips.
• The "Power Hour": I start each day with a distraction-free "power hour" dedicated to my most important task.

5. Accountability Partners: Creating a Network of Success

Even high achievers need support. I've built a network of accountability that keeps me on track:

• Executive Peer Group: I meet monthly with other executives who understand the unique challenges of leadership with ADHD.
• Reverse Mentoring: I have a younger team member who's exceptionally organized. Our reverse mentoring relationship helps me stay current with the latest productivity tools.
• Virtual Co-working: I sometimes use virtual co-working sessions with colleagues for solo projects, creating a sense of shared focus and accountability.

Remember, these strategies aren't about changing who you are. They're about amplifying your strengths and creating systems that allow your unique gifts to shine. ADHD in high-achieving professionals isn't a limitation; it's often the very thing that drives innovation, creative problem-solving, and out-of-the-box thinking.

As leaders, our role isn't just to manage our own time but to create environments where diverse thinking styles can thrive. By mastering these strategies, we not only enhance our performance but also pave the way for more inclusive, neurodiversity-friendly workplaces.

What strategies have helped you leverage your ADHD for success? Share your experiences in the comments below. As always, thank you for reading!