Running a Business with ADHD: Tips and Strategies from a Female Entrepreneur and Mom

As a female entrepreneur and mother living with ADHD, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to run a successful business while managing the symptoms of ADHD. I wasn't diagnosed until I was 30, and since then, I've had to develop strategies and coping mechanisms to help me stay focused and productive. In this post, I'll share some of the best tips and strategies that have helped me thrive as an entrepreneur and mom.

1. Embrace Your Strengths: While ADHD can make it difficult to focus on certain tasks, it can also bring a unique set of strengths such as creativity, spontaneity, and high energy levels. Embrace these strengths and use them to your advantage in your business.
2. Get Organized: Organization is key to staying on top of things. Develop a system that works for you, whether it's using a planner, digital tools, or a combination of both. Personally, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been a lifesaver for me in developing healthy thought patterns that support my productivity. I also block out my day by time, not tasks, because I can easily get lost in a task I love all day or procrastinate on one I don't enjoy. Additionally, I only focus on one thing I must accomplish each day to avoid overwhelming myself.
3. Find an Accountability Partner: It can be helpful to have someone to hold you accountable and keep you on track. Find a mentor, business coach, or trusted friend who understands your struggles and can provide support and guidance.
4. Take Breaks: Allow yourself time to recharge and refresh. Taking breaks throughout the day can help prevent burnout and increase productivity. Personally, I've found that incorporating exercise into my daily routine has been incredibly beneficial. I choose an activity like a stationary bike that allows me to multi-task, such as finishing up emails or conducting research while working out.
5. Utilize Time-Blocking: Time-blocking is a strategy where you schedule specific blocks of time for different tasks. This can help you stay on track and avoid distractions.
6. Seek Support: Don't be afraid to seek support from family, friends, or a therapist. Building a support system can make a huge difference in managing ADHD and the stresses of entrepreneurship and motherhood.
7. Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and getting enough sleep. It's important to recharge your own batteries in order to be the best version of yourself for your business and family.
8. Outsource: As an entrepreneur, it's important to recognize the tasks that are holding you back and consider outsourcing them to free up your time and energy for the tasks that matter most. This could mean hiring a virtual assistant or delegating tasks to a team member.

As someone who was diagnosed with ADHD later in life, I struggled for years with focus, productivity, and organization. But by embracing my strengths, getting organized, finding accountability, taking breaks, time-blocking, seeking support, practicing self-care, and outsourcing, I've been able to manage my ADHD and succeed as an entrepreneur and mother. Remember, everyone's journey is different, so find what works for you and your unique situation.