Five features to look for in a planner if you have ADHD

If you have ADHD, you'll be familiar with the challenges of staying organised and completing tasks, particularly when they're tedious and time-consuming.

Maintaining focus on a single task can be tough, often resulting in a continuous cycle of task-switching without making significant progress. We reached out to Brisbane City Psychologists for some guidance on what features to seek in a planner if you're managing ADHD.

1. Customisation: Look for a planner that allows you to personalise sections and layouts to suit your specific needs. This adaptability can accommodate your unique planning style.

2. Visual Appeal and Simplicity: Choose a planner with a clean, uncluttered design. A minimalist layout and straightforward design can help reduce visual overwhelm and distractions.

3. Task Breakdowns: Search for planners with sections or checkboxes that let you break down time-consuming tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This approach can prevent overwhelm and promote gradual progress.

4. Reminder Space: Opt for a planner that provides room to include reminders, helping you stay on track with your commitments.

5. Note-Taking Space: Integrated pages can be invaluable for jotting down ideas, thoughts, and essential information. These pages can serve as a central repository for brainstorming and creative thinking.

Keep in mind that the ideal planner for managing ADHD can vary from person to person. Find a planner that motivates you and consider using incentives to help you stick to your routines.

Regularly updating and customising your planner to meet your evolving needs is crucial for maintaining motivation, using your planner effectively, and staying on course with your plans and goals.