ADHD Coach Katherine Sanders

Welcome to another insightful episode of ADHD Powerful Possibilities! Today, Katherine explores the essential yet often misunderstood realm of executive function profiles. Understanding how your brain manages tasks, impulses, and emotional regulation isn't just about ADHD; it's a key to thriving in all areas of life.

🧡 Episode Highlights:

• What is an Executive Function Profile? Learn how everyone has a unique profile and why understanding it can help smooth daily life.
• Beyond ADHD: How executive function impacts everyone, not just those with ADHD, and how to leverage this knowledge for productivity and well-being.
• Common Challenges: Dive into real-life struggles like time awareness, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
• Practical Tools: Katherine shares a couple of her favourite tools, including OneSec for impulse control, visual timers, and a downloadable Tracking Sheet to help you assess your profile.

Whether you're navigating ADHD or simply want a better handle on life's demands, this episode equips you with tools for clarity, confidence, and control.

🔔 Be sure to leave a review if you found this episode helpful, and don't forget to subscribe for more empowering insights. Stay curious, stay powerful, and take care of yourself!

Connect with Katherine here:

Website

Instagram

Tiktok

Facebook

Youtube

LinkedIN

Threads

1. OneSec App – Delay access to social media and build better impulse control.
2. Executive Function Tracking Sheet – Download this to track and understand your executive functions over a week.
3. Function Junction Course – A streamlined course designed to help you create a custom executive function profile and plan practical strategies.

ADHD Coach Katherine Sanders

In this episode of ADHD: Powerful Possibilities, Katherine explores why traditional productivity systems fail for those of us with ADHD.

We explore the struggles many ADHD brains face when trying to follow typical planning methods and shares practical, ADHD-friendly alternatives to make productivity more flexible, sustainable, and enjoyable.

🐸 If you've ever felt frustrated with traditional advice like "eat the frog," this episode is here to provide you with insights and supportive strategies that actually work.

🧡 Key Points Discussed:

Why Traditional Productivity Systems Fall Short for ADHD Brains

• Conventional methods, like linear to-do lists or strict time management, are designed with neurotypical executive functions in mind, which can lead to overwhelm for ADHD individuals.
• The "Eat the Frog" method and systems that rely on consistent emotional regulation often clash with how ADHD brains operate.

The Role of Executive Dysfunction in Productivity Struggles

• Dr. Barkley's insights: Executive dysfunction is a core challenge for those with ADHD, affecting planning, emotional regulation, task initiation, and follow-through.
• How rigid systems fail to consider emotional factors that disrupt productivity, such as anxiety, frustration, and boredom.

Understanding Dopamine and Motivation

• Katherine discusses Dr. Nora Volkow's research on reward deficiency in ADHD, explaining why traditional reward-based planning often fails.
• Dopamine's role in ADHD brains: why we struggle with future rewards and how this impacts motivation for non-urgent, non-interesting tasks.

Then we explore alternative, ADHD-Friendly Productivity Alternatives

Notable Quotes:

• "The key to productivity isn't just structure—it's finding the right kind of structure for your brain."
• "It's not about trying to fit into productivity molds that were never designed for us; it's about tweaking them until they actually feel doable."
• "Short-term, immediate rewards work best for ADHD, and there’s nothing wrong with making it fun—confetti, points, or cats, whatever gets you moving."

If today’s episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.

😀 Remember, your experience can help others overcome their own challenges!

📝 Please don’t forget to leave a review—every bit of support helps us bring you more strategies for an ADHD-friendly life.

Connect with Katherine here:

Website

Instagram

Tiktok

Facebook

Youtube

LinkedIN

Threads

📘 The CLEAR ADHD Procrastination Cure Ebook – For more on ADHD-friendly strategies.

🎓 Executive Function Junction Course – Transform your...

ADHD Coach Katherine Sanders

Ever wondered if the classic 'amygdala hijack' story really explains your emotional responses? In this groundbreaking episode of ADHD Powerful Possibilities, Katherine dives into the less well-known habenula, offering fresh insights into how we process stress, avoid tasks, and regulate emotions.

Discover why the habenula matters for ADHD, how it impacts dopamine levels and decision-making, and ways to gently reshape your brain’s response to stress with practical, actionable tools. If you’re ready to rethink your relationship with your mind, this episode is your invitation to dive deeper.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00] Welcome and Introduction to Rethinking Brain Myths
• [03:02] Habenula’s Role in Emotional Regulation and Dopamine Production
• [05:15] Impact of Habenula Sensitivity on ADHD Related Avoidance
• [10:00] Reframing Techniques & Cognitive Strategies
• [11:19] Positive Reinforcement for Breaking Negative Cycles
• [12:58] The Power of Mindfulness & Neuroplasticity in Managing ADHD
• [13:28] Safe Exposure Techniques for Building Emotional Resilience
• [15:24] Embracing Self-Compassion and Practical Next Steps

Common Questions Explored:

• What role does the habenula play in ADHD, and why is it important?
• How can we use neuroplasticity to reshape our emotional responses?
• What are some realistic, ADHD-friendly strategies for managing stress and emotional overload?

Key Takeaways:

1. Learn how a small brain region, the habenula, influences dopamine and task avoidance.
2. Discover how cognitive reframing and positive reinforcement can reduce emotional spirals.
3. Embrace practical mindfulness techniques to calm your mind and enhance focus.
4. Unlock why self-compassion is essential in your ADHD journey.

Join Us Next Time as we explore why traditional 'productivity hacks' and advice often fail ADHD brains!

Connect with Katherine here:

Website

Instagram

Tiktok

Facebook

Youtube

LinkedIN

Threads

📘 The CLEAR ADHD Procrastination Cure Ebook – For more on ADHD-friendly strategies.

🎓 Executive Function Junction Course – Transform your approach to creating habits and routines with powerful brain-based methods.

✉️ Subscribe to Katherine’s ADHD Emails – Get actionable advice and tools directly to your inbox.

💡