Time blindness is the ADHD brain’s struggle to perceive and manage time accurately. For moms, this can look like constantly running late, underestimating how long tasks take, or losing track of time altogether.
Here’s how I’ve learned to manage time blindness and create a more balanced day.
Time blindness used to rule my life. I’d think I had plenty of time to get the kids ready, only to find myself frantically searching for shoes as the clock ticked down. Appointments were missed, chores piled up, and I often felt like I was running a never-ending race.
Over time, I discovered strategies to help me stay on track and better understand how time works for my brain. These small changes have made a huge difference, and I’m excited to share them with you.
1. Set Alarms for Key Tasks
I rely on alarms to keep me aware of what needs to happen throughout the day. From waking up to leaving the house, my phone’s alarms are my go-to tool.
Quick Tip: Label your alarms with specific tasks, like “Time to leave for school” or “Start dinner prep.”
2. Use a Timer for Focus
Time blindness makes it easy to lose track of how long I’ve been doing something. I set timers for tasks like cleaning, working, or even taking breaks. It keeps me grounded and prevents overcommitting.
ADHD Hack: Try the Pomodoro Technique—work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
3. Visualize Time with Clocks
Digital clocks don’t always help me “see” time passing. I use analog clocks and visual timers to give me a better sense of how much time is left for a task.
Pro Tip: Place clocks in high-traffic areas to keep time visible throughout the day.
4. Plan with Buffer Time
I’ve learned to build extra time into my schedule for transitions and unexpected delays. For example, if I think I need 10 minutes to get the kids out the door, I plan for 20.
Why It Works: Buffer time reduces stress and gives you room to breathe.
5. Break Tasks Into Chunks
Large tasks can feel overwhelming, so I break them into smaller, time-specific steps. Instead of “clean the house,” I’ll focus on “clear the kitchen counters for 15 minutes.”
Encouragement: Celebrate each completed chunk as progress.
6. Use Visual Schedules
I map out my day on a whiteboard or planner with color-coded blocks of time. This helps me see what’s coming up and keeps me from overbooking myself.
Example: Blue for chores, green for errands, yellow for family time.
7. Give Yourself Grace
Managing time blindness is a work in progress. There are still days when I’m late or forget something, but I’ve learned to be kind to myself and focus on what I’m doing well.
Encouragement: Perfection isn’t the goal. Progress is.
Time blindness can feel overwhelming, but with tools like alarms, timers, and visual schedules, it’s possible to stay on track and create a day that works for you. Remember, mama: It’s about progress, not perfection. You’ve got this!
Share your favorite time hack in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you!
