Tag: autism

Introduction

The world of productivity is often geared towards neurotypical minds, leaving neurodivergent individuals feeling lost and overwhelmed. Traditional methods like time blocking, while effective for some, can feel rigid and anxiety-inducing for others. If you’re neurodivergent and struggling to find a productivity system that works for you, you’re not alone.

This article explores five unusual productivity hacks specifically designed to complement the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent minds. These strategies go beyond conventional approaches, offering practical and adaptable solutions to help you thrive.

1. Body Doubling: Harness the Power of Shared Presence

For many neurodivergent individuals, the simple act of having someone else present can significantly boost focus and motivation. This phenomenon, known as “body doubling,” can be surprisingly effective.

How Body Doubling Works:

• Find a friend, family member, or colleague who understands your needs.
• Work on your tasks in the same physical space, whether silently or with minimal interaction.
• The presence of another person can help minimize distractions, increase accountability, and provide a sense of shared purpose.

Body Doubling Example:

Instead of struggling to write a report alone, try working on it in a coffee shop where a friend is also working on their tasks. The shared energy and implicit accountability can make a world of difference.

2. Monotasking with Themed Days: Aligning Tasks with Energy Levels

Multitasking, often touted as a productivity holy grail, can be a recipe for disaster for neurodivergent individuals. The constant task switching can lead to overwhelm and reduced efficiency. Instead, embrace the power of monotasking by dedicating specific days to specific types of tasks.

How to Monotask with Themed Days:

• Identify your peak energy levels for different types of activities.
• Assign specific days of the week to focus on similar tasks. For example:
  • Mondays: Creative brainstorming and project planning
  • Tuesdays: Writing and content creation
  • Wednesdays: Meetings and collaborative work
• This approach allows you to leverage your natural energy flows and minimize mental friction from context switching.

Monotasking Example:

If you know you’re most creative in the mornings, schedule all your brainstorming and idea-generation sessions for the beginning of the week. Reserve afternoons for less demanding tasks like email or administrative work.

3. Gamifying Your To-Do List: Turning Chores into Challenges

Turning mundane tasks into engaging challenges can be a game-changer for neurodivergent individuals who thrive on novelty and stimulation. Gamification taps into our natural desire for rewards and accomplishment, making even the most tedious chores feel more manageable.

How to Gamify Your To-Do List:

• Use apps or create your own system to turn tasks into quests or challenges.
• Set rewards for completing tasks or reaching milestones.
• Track your progress visually to enhance motivation and a sense of achievement.

Gamification Example:

Instead of simply writing “clean the kitchen” on your to-do list, turn it into a game. Set a timer for 15 minutes and challenge yourself to see how much you can clean before it goes off. Reward yourself with a small treat or a break after completing the challenge.

March 13, 2025