2024: Your Year of Pause
If you have ADHD you move fast. You live in the moment. You like new things. And you usually enthusiastically say “YES!” when something is asked of you.
While saying “yes” in itself isn’t bad, when you say “yes” and agree to do too many things, it’s inevitable that you’’ become overwhelmed, stressed, and unable to get all the things done you’ve committed yourself to. And with all your commitments to other people (hey, we’re people pleasers) you’re less likely to accomplish the things that are aligned with your personal goals and dreams.
Make 2024 your year of pause.
When working with my clients we talk about the power of the pause, which is the learned ability to take a moment before responding to any requests. It takes a while, but once you start intentionally working on pausing, it gets easier.
The next time you’re asked to do something, try the pause and instead of responding with that enthusiastic “YES!” (and then regretting the decision hours later) take the pause and respond with “can I get back to you?” Don’t be ashamed to ask for a little extra time, your ADHD brain needs it to process the request.
A few questions to ask yourself while processing the request:
How long will this obligation take? Is it a quick thing, or will it take multiple hours or days?
Is this something I enjoy doing?
Is it something I can ask a friend to help me with to lessen the load?
How will I feel when this obligation is complete?
How will this impact my current obligations?
Does this obligation align with my goals and or resolutions?
All this information is data to help you make an intentional decision if a new commitment is right for you.
It’s a new year, and while you don’t need to create a new you, create a new habit: the pause.
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If you find yourself in need of support, guidance, or just a friendly conversation about managing your life and thriving with ADHD, I'm here to help.
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