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How to Choose a Planning System for ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can create a number of problems related to work, school, and personal business. Children and adults who have the illness suffer from severe difficulties in organization, focusing, and task completion. They also often lose things needed to finish work, such as important papers or writing instruments. Losing track of time and not finishing necessary activities is also prevalent in ADHD sufferers. Selecting an effective planning system can be a powerful tool in bettering one's life despite ADHD symptoms.

Things You'll Need

  • Calendar or planner
  • Pen or pencil
  • Paper
  • Tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide whether you prefer a paper-only planning system, a computerized organizational method or a combination of these. If you are really apt to losing important documents, a computer program may be ideal. However, keep in mind you should be computer-savvy and may need to spend a few minutes learning the intricacies of the software.

    • 2

      Select the "blank page method" if you prefer using papers. Every day, set aside a few minutes to create your schedule for the upcoming day. Write down your must-do tasks on a piece of paper. Also make note of what you want to do, such as fun activities. Then order the list numerically according to priorities. If you wish, you can rewrite the list onto a new piece of paper in numerical order but this is not necessary, according to "The Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults Workbook" authored by Dr. Lynn Weiss. You can either post the list on a wall or carry it with you. Cross off each item as you complete it. Repeat the process daily.

    • 3

      Purchase a scheduling program like MultiCalendar or DevPlanner (see Resources below) if you decide that handling paperwork is not the best choice for your personal ADHD symptoms. Alternatively, you can use your word processing software if you wish to use a computerized planning system.

    • 4

      Write down all appointments in a paper calendar or planner as soon as you know them. Keep the calendar with you or at a highly visible place, such as above your desk. To further ensure you remember your appointments, consider using a reminder service. Many e-mail programs allow you to have automatic reminders sent, or you could consider using a free online reminder service such as Memo To Me.

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