When it comes to getting things done, I would say I have a hard time focusing for too long. I have never actually been diagnosed, but I wouldn't be shocked if I was told I have ADHD. I am a professional multi-tasker. I always have several things going on at once and I love to read three books at a time. People think I am crazy and well, I get it. I do not do things "normally" if there is such a thing. I like to have freedom and flexibility and go where my mood takes me. Hence why I embrace so much change all the time. While I am use to these ways, it does not mean that I get "more" done and it is not always efficient, but I do typically have fun. I'm not sure if fun is what other people in my life would call it, but thats okay!
With all that said, I am always trying to find a better way to get the things done that need to be done, daily. I have tried so many methods I am exhausted just thinking about it. The best part of all of these failed attempts are that I know the things that do not work for me and I know things that I like about keeping me on task. For example, timers are a saving grace for me. I know that if I really need to get shit done in a certain time, a timer will hold me accountable every time. I also know that I like check lists. My favorite app for this is GOOGLE KEEP (not sponsored).
I actually learned about this app from my friend Tim who once did a training on it at the private school we worked for at the time. I have never looked back. I keep so much information in this app. Back to the checklists. This app works like digital sticky notes all in once place. One of the features on these notes is a check box. My favorite thing about it is that after you check all of the boxes, you can press one button to uncheck them all and start again the next day, FRESH! I even use this for my grocery list since I tend to need most of the same items week to week and then I just add the difference on the end.
More recently I have decided to change up some of the check lists in this app to flow with a block scheduling. I have tried this method in the past but on paper. While I love pen to paper the most, it is not always the easiest to carry around but my phone is always with me. This works for me. When I wake up, I open the app and see what I need to do. I check off things as a I go and it helps me feel accomplished. My blocks are chopped up into 3 hour chunks. I find when I do larger chunks of time, it gives me time to have those interrupted moments where I get lost on my phone or someone took a knee to the pavement and need some love. I know that for me, I NEED wiggle room. If you make time blocks too short, it rarely leaves time for error and with three kids, we have errors!
I hope with me sharing my method and experiences, it can help you discover what does and doesn't work for you. Try out what you think might work and then tweak it as needed. The best part is that if something doesn't work like you thought, just change it. Don't dwell on it or make it a big deal or even change the whole method. Just tweak what needs to be tweaked. Maybe you need 3- 3hr blocks and one 5 hour block, then do that! There is no one waiting with a hot poker for you! Be flexible with yourself. Show yourself grace! And when something fails, laugh it off. I'm sure it is not that serious. Move on!
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