This Task Is So Boring!
ADHD Does Not Like Boring!
Being bored for an ADHD’er is like listening to fingernails on a chalkboard. Both scenarios are to be avoided at all costs! If you have a boring task to complete, you can almost count on your ADHD stepping in and telling you to do something different.
It’s how your brain is wired.
However, some tasks in life just have to be done, whether we want to do them or not. Many people will wait until the last minute because it’s their adrenaline that pushes them through, however if you’ve ever done this before, you know this is not a very healthy way to get tasks done.
Procrastination leads to extra stress, anxiety, and for many, shame.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a magic strategy that will make a boring task into something that will be exciting, but I do have a few questions and ideas for you on how to get started on the task.
Questions
What is it about the task that is boring?
What have you done in the past to get the task done?
How can you make this task more engaging? (See Ideas!)
Ideas
Do the task while you are doing something you enjoy, like listening to a podcast or your favorite music.
Do the task with someone or at the very least tell someone you are doing the task. Body doubling and accountability go a long way when you need to do something you don’t want to do.
Do something fun first. Activate your mind, so you go into the task with enthusiasm rather than dread.
Break the task down into as many small steps as you can. Then only focus on one step at a time.
Try the pomodoro method, where you set a timer for 25 minutes to work and then 5 minutes to take a break. I love turning this into a game, how much can I get done before the timer goes off.
So, the next time you find yourself avoiding a boring task, try one or two of these strategies. It will feel so gratifying to get some of those toleration tasks off your list!
Thank you for your time and attention.
-Nikki
