For someone with ADHD, the disruption to our carefully constructed routines can feel like an emotional earthquake followed by a mental tornado. Suddenly, all those coping mechanisms we meticulously built for ourselves get thrown into question.
Let me tell you, this past breakup definitely sent my routine into a tailspin. Explaining my ADHD to a partner who didn’t seem to care, navigating the good days and the “forget-the-laundry” days – it was a whole thing. Being single again has allowed me to reclaim my routine, ADHD and all, without the constant need to explain or justify.
The freedom to manage my day on my terms has been a revelation. I can wake up to a playlist specifically designed to jolt my brain awake (yes, it sometimes involves lofi, don’t judge!). My morning routine might involve tackling ten minutes of cleaning in a whirlwind of energy, followed by a ten-minute meditation session to calm the scattered thoughts. It’s unconventional, but it works for me.
The best part? No need for apologies! If I hyperfocus on a project and forget to eat lunch, well, that’s okay. I can whip up a quick protein shake and get back to my zone. And let’s be honest, sometimes a color-coded schedule is the only way to ensure I don’t miss meetings and calls.
This newfound freedom to embrace my unique approach to routine management has been empowering. It’s allowed me to rediscover the joy in the little things – the satisfaction of completing a task, the focus achieved during a deep dive into a project. It’s a reminder that my ADHD isn’t a burden, it’s simply a different way of experiencing the world.
Sometimes, a little “me time” is the perfect reset button for the mind, body, and yes, even the ADHD brain. To all my fellow ADHD warriors out there, here’s a message of solidarity:
- Embrace your routine, quirks and all!
- Take this time to reconnect with yourself, rediscover what works for you, and celebrate the small victories!
In My Unapologetic Life... 