How an ADHD Brain Can Benefit from Embracing "Percent Complete" Mindset

المفاهيم الأساسية

Embracing progress-based success metrics rather than solely focusing on full completion can be more rewarding and sustainable for individuals with ADHD.

الملخص

The article discusses how individuals with ADHD can benefit from shifting their mindset from solely focusing on full project completion to appreciating the value of incremental progress.
The author, who has ADHD, explains that the pressure of deadlines and the need to finish everything can be exhausting. Instead, they have learned to find meaning and satisfaction in checking off smaller steps towards a larger goal. This "percent complete" mindset allows them to feel a sense of accomplishment on a daily basis, rather than feeling unproductive if the final result is not achieved.
The article contrasts the neurotypical brain's ability to see progress towards a goal and feel satisfied, versus the ADHD brain's tendency to either push harder or become overwhelmed when faced with incomplete tasks. It highlights the importance of recognizing two versions of success - completion of the final project, and the progress made along the way.
The author emphasizes that while the idea of completion is a definitive form of success, the more immediate rewards of progress-based achievements can be just as meaningful, if not more so, for individuals with ADHD. This shift in mindset can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and disappointment, and foster a more sustainable and positive approach to productivity.

الإحصائيات

None.

اقتباسات

"If I can check off boxes that are steps towards completion, that can be as meaningful as finishing the project, if not more so."
"Looking at percentages, even figuratively, lets me start to feel content with a day that seemed to have no accomplishments."

الرؤى الأساسية المستخلصة من

Learn to Live in “Percent Complete Mode”

by Jody Gates في medium.com 04-07-2024

https://medium.com/humans-with-adhd/learn-to-live-in-percent-complete-mode-cdcb9f2fd37c

استفسارات أعمق

How can employers and educators better support individuals with ADHD by incorporating progress-based metrics and rewards?

Employers and educators can better support individuals with ADHD by shifting the focus from solely outcome-based goals to progress-based metrics. By breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting achievable milestones, individuals with ADHD can track their progress more effectively. Providing regular feedback and recognition for incremental achievements can help boost motivation and confidence. Additionally, incorporating rewards for reaching these progress milestones can further incentivize individuals with ADHD to stay engaged and productive.

What are the potential downsides or limitations of the "percent complete" mindset, and how can they be addressed?

One potential downside of the "percent complete" mindset is the risk of becoming too fixated on reaching a specific percentage, leading to feelings of pressure and anxiety. This mindset may also overlook the qualitative aspects of progress and focus solely on quantitative measures. To address these limitations, it is important to emphasize the value of the journey and the process itself, rather than just the end goal. Encouraging flexibility and adaptability in goal-setting can help individuals with ADHD navigate setbacks and challenges more effectively.

In what other areas of life, beyond work and productivity, could the "percent complete" approach be beneficial for individuals with ADHD?

Beyond work and productivity, the "percent complete" approach can be beneficial for individuals with ADHD in personal goal-setting, self-improvement endeavors, and even in managing daily tasks and routines. By breaking down larger objectives into smaller, achievable steps, individuals with ADHD can maintain a sense of progress and accomplishment in various aspects of their lives. This approach can also be applied to hobbies, fitness goals, creative projects, and other areas where tracking incremental progress can help individuals stay motivated and focused.