ADHD and routines: Why “consistency” doesn’t work (and what does)

Routines aren’t about perfection. They’re about keeping the peace and developing a sense of stability. In this episode, Dr. J explains why traditional routines can feel impossible for ADHD brains — and what actually works. Think tiny, doable habits. Attaching new routines to things you already do. And yes, leaving room for rest, fun, and even the occasional “I forgot my socks” day. For more on this topic: Listen: ADHD and time perception https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/missunderstood/adhd-women-time-perception-time-blindness Read: One woman’s daily routine with ADHD https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-diaries-emily Read: How to build habits with ADHD https://add.org/building-habits/ Watch: Jessica McCabe on sticking to habits and routines https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhtQs2M-7rs&pp=ygUNYWRoZCByb3V0aW5lcw%3D%3D For a transcript and more resources, visit MissUnderstood on Understood.org. https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/missunderstood/adhd-and-routines You can also email us at [email protected]. Questions about learning and thinking differences? Get answers and expert-vetted resources by asking the AI-powered Understood Assistant: https://www.understood.org/en/assistant?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=assistant-agn-prod&utm_content=video Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at https://www.understood.org/en/donate?sc=MU0725YTO&utm_medium=organic&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=fundraising-agn-vid-missunderstood&utm_content=video For more resources, support, and excellent memes, subscribe to our YouTube channel or follow us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/understoodorg/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Understood/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@understood.org Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/understoodorg/ #ADHDtips #ADHDroutines #ADHDwomen #HabitHacks #ExecutiveFunction