Structuring Your Day with ADHD Without Losing Your Spark

If you’re anything like me, having structure made me instantly feel like I was going to be bored. With ADHD, boredom is our biggest fear. For a long time, I thought structure and boredom were inseparable. The idea of having a structured day felt like a surefire way to stifle my creativity and make life monotonous. However, I’ve discovered that a well-structured day can actually enhance my productivity and creativity. Here’s how I do it.

Embracing the 80/20 Rule

The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, has been a game-changer for me, especially when it comes to my schedule. I structure 80% of my day, leaving 20% open for spontaneous, creative activities. This balance allows me to stay productive without feeling restricted.

My Daily Routine

Please don’t compare my schedule to your schedule. I love early mornings, and I know early isn’t for everyone! Figure out your routine, what works for you! I wake up around 5:30, and I structure everything from that point, until about 6:30pm. I schedule everything in my day, from switching the laundry to when I will be able to eat lunch. Be as detailed as you can. I have been using a free app called Structured!

• 5:30 am: Wake up, Feed the Dogs, Make Coffee, Empty Dishwasher (if needed)
• 6:00am: Workout for 30 minutes, Start Laundry (I do laundry as soon as I have 1 load ready)
• 6:30am: Journal & Plan the Day
• 7:00am: Get ready for the day
• 8:00am: Work
• 12:00pm: Lunch
• 5:00pm: Work Ends
• 5:00pm-6:30pm: Make & Eat Dinner
• 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm: Free time for creativity, hobbies, or relaxation

The Importance of Evening Freedom

From 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, I give myself the freedom to do whatever I want. This could be anything from reading a book, painting, or just chilling with a good movie. This free time is crucial because it recharges my creativity and keeps me motivated, but also prioritizes time with my husband.

Weekend Flexibility

Weekends are slightly different. I allow myself more freedom, but I still dedicate some time to work on my business, even if it is only for 15-20 minutes. Balancing home life, a full-time job (if you have one), and building a business can be overwhelming. A flexible but structured schedule helps manage these demands without burning out.

Tips for Maintaining Structure and Creativity

1. Set Clear Goals: Know what you want to achieve each day.
2. Prioritize Tasks: Focus on what’s important and time-sensitive.
3. Schedule Downtime: Make sure to include breaks and relaxation in your schedule.
4. Be Flexible: Allow yourself to adjust the schedule if needed.
5. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review your schedule to see what works and what doesn’t.

Conclusion

Sticking to a schedule doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity. By structuring most of your day and leaving room for spontaneity, you can boost your productivity while keeping your spark alive. Whether you’re starting a business or juggling multiple responsibilities, a balanced approach can make all the difference.

Give the 80/20 rule a try, and see how it transforms your day-to-day life!