You know what? There’s a whole lot of misinformation out there about productivity, especially for ADHD moms. It’s easy to feel defeated when you’re doing everything “right” and still not getting the results you want.
Before I learned how to structure my day in a way that works for my ADHD brain, I tried every productivity hack I could find. Expert #1 would say, “Wake up at 5 a.m. to get ahead.” Expert #2 would say, “Follow a strict hourly schedule.” But nothing stuck.
Many people think that productivity is about working harder and faster because “more effort equals better results.” Others believe they’re simply not “organized enough” to be productive, which makes it harder to even start.
Here’s the truth: ADHD brains don’t thrive under traditional productivity rules. We need systems that align with how we’re wired—not cookie-cutter advice.
You absolutely should NOT force yourself to follow rigid schedules or unsustainable habits. I know how frustrating it is to feel like you’re failing, even though you’re trying your best.
But once I started rethinking productivity and working with my ADHD brain instead of against it, I began to see real change. You can, too!
Let’s dive into four limiting beliefs about productivity and how to flip them into empowering strategies.
Limiting Belief #1: “I Have to Stick to a Strict Schedule”
How often have you set up an hourly schedule only to abandon it halfway through the day? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The belief that success hinges on following a rigid plan is one of the most common traps for ADHD moms.
Why This Doesn’t Work:
ADHD brains thrive on flexibility, not rigidity. Strict schedules can feel suffocating, and as soon as one thing goes off track, the whole plan falls apart.
How to Turn It Into Your Superpower:
Embrace routines over rigid schedules. A routine gives you a structure to follow while allowing the flexibility to adapt as needed.
- Instead of “8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. – Workout,” try “Morning: Move my body for 15-30 minutes.”
- Use a to-do list with 1-3 priorities for the day rather than scheduling every hour.
- Set alarms or timers to keep you on track without locking yourself into a rigid timeline.
Limiting Belief #2: “I’ll Be Productive Once I’m Motivated”
Motivation feels like the magic ingredient for getting things done, but relying on it often leads to procrastination. You wait for the “right moment,” and in the meantime, the tasks pile up.
Why This Doesn’t Work:
Motivation is fleeting and unreliable. ADHD brains often struggle to initiate tasks, even when the motivation is there.
How to Turn It Into Your Superpower:
Focus on momentum, not motivation. Start with one small, manageable task to get the ball rolling.
- Use the “2-Minute Rule”: If a task takes less than 2 minutes, do it now.
- Pair tasks with something enjoyable, like listening to music or a podcast, to make starting easier.
- Break big tasks into bite-sized steps. Instead of “Clean the house,” start with “Pick up toys in the living room.”
Limiting Belief #3: “I Need to Be Organized Before I Can Be Productive”
“I’ll start working as soon as I organize my desk.” Sound familiar? While organization helps, it’s not a prerequisite for getting things done.
Why This Doesn’t Work:
Perfectionism and procrastination often go hand-in-hand. Waiting to “get organized” before starting can delay progress indefinitely.
How to Turn It Into Your Superpower:
Take imperfect action. You don’t need a perfectly organized space to start a productive task.
- Clear a small area of your workspace to create a functional zone for your current task.
- Set a timer for 10 minutes to tidy up just enough to work comfortably.
- Remind yourself that action creates clarity. The act of starting can often inspire more organization.
Limiting Belief #4: “I Don’t Have Time”
“I’d love to be productive, but I’m just too busy.” This belief is common, but it often masks the real issue: prioritization.
Why This Doesn’t Work:
Saying you don’t have time often means the task isn’t a priority. Without clear priorities, it’s easy to fill your day with low-impact activities that leave you feeling busy but unproductive.
How to Turn It Into Your Superpower:
Focus on what matters most. You don’t need hours of free time—you just need to use the time you have intentionally.
- Identify your top three priorities for the day. Focus on these before anything else.
- Use time blocks to dedicate 15-30 minutes to high-impact tasks.
- Batch similar tasks together to save time and mental energy.
Wrapping It Up
You’re making great progress! It’s time to turn your limiting beliefs into empowering beliefs. If you find yourself stuck in the productivity trap, think about what’s really holding you back. Challenge those beliefs, flip them into strengths, and take small steps forward.
