Struggling to stay organized with ADHD

Struggling to stay organized with ADHD

"The Power of Externalizing Executive Function (ADHD-Friendly Tools)"

Struggling to stay organized with ADHD

Try *externalizing* executive function.

That means taking the mental load out of your head and making it visible, concrete, and actionable.

Because ADHD brains often struggle with internal organization, moving things *outside* the mind helps with:

  • Remembering tasks
  • Following through
  • Starting what matters
  • Reducing overwhelm

Helpful tools include:

  • Whiteboards & sticky notes
  • Visual timers (like Time Timer)
  • Step-by-step checklists
  • Paper or digital planners
  • Color-coded calendars
  • ADHD-friendly apps (e.g., Notion, Todoist)

Pro tip: Keep it simple. The tool that works is the one you’ll actually use.

External supports aren’t cheating—they’re smart strategies.

This is how many ADHDers stay on track without burning out.