Procrastination and Avoidance: A different take on ADHD Struggles with Follow Through

In the realm of adult ADHD, poor follow-through, procrastination, and avoidance are common struggles that can hinder productivity and success. However, co-host Lynne Edris offers a unique perspective on these challenges. In this blog post, we will delve into Lynne's insights, exploring procrastination as a coping mechanism gone awry. We will uncover the underlying reasons behind procrastination and avoidance and provide practical strategies to enhance follow-through, making it easier and more consistent.
Understanding Procrastination as a Coping Mechanism:
Procrastination is often viewed as a character flaw or a sign of laziness. However, Lynne Edris challenges this perception, presenting procrastination as a coping mechanism that has gone off course. By avoiding tasks or delaying action, individuals with adult ADHD may seek temporary relief from the stress, anxiety, or overwhelm associated with certain activities.
Getting to the Root of Procrastination:
To overcome procrastination and improve follow-through, it is essential to uncover the reasons behind this behavior. Here are some common underlying factors:
Fear of failure or perfectionism: Procrastination can stem from a fear of not meeting one's own high standards or the fear of failure. Perfectionism often goes hand in hand with procrastination, as individuals may delay starting tasks until they feel confident they can achieve perfection.
Overwhelm and executive function challenges: Overwhelming tasks or projects can trigger procrastination, especially for individuals with ADHD who may struggle with executive functions such as planning, organization, and time management. The perceived enormity of a task can make it difficult to initiate action.
Lack of clarity or motivation: Procrastination can also result from a lack of clarity about the desired outcome or a lack of intrinsic motivation for the task at hand. When individuals do not fully understand the purpose or value of a task, they may struggle to prioritize it and delay taking action.
Practical Strategies for Enhanced Follow-Through:
Now that we understand the underlying factors contributing to procrastination, let's explore some practical strategies that can help individuals with adult ADHD overcome procrastination and improve follow-through:
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps: Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps makes them less overwhelming and easier to approach. By focusing on one step at a time, individuals can build momentum and reduce the urge to procrastinate.
Set realistic goals and deadlines: Establishing realistic goals and deadlines provides a clear framework for action. By setting specific and achievable targets, individuals can enhance motivation and create a sense of urgency to complete tasks.
Utilize external accountability: Seeking external accountability through a coach, mentor, or an accountability partner can provide the necessary support and motivation to stay on track. Sharing progress, deadlines, and commitments with someone else can increase the likelihood of follow-through.
Practice self-reflection and self-compassion: It's important to reflect on the underlying emotions, beliefs, and fears that contribute to procrastination. Cultivating self-compassion and recognizing that perfection is not necessary can alleviate the pressure and reduce avoidance tendencies.
Create a supportive environment: Designing an environment conducive to productivity can minimize distractions and promote focus. This may involve decluttering the workspace, utilizing organizational tools, implementing time-management techniques, and setting clear boundaries.
Procrastination and avoidance can pose significant challenges for adults with ADHD, but they can be overcome. By understanding procrastination as a coping mechanism gone awry, individuals can uncover the root causes and implement practical strategies to improve follow-through and consistency. Co-host Lynne Edris provides valuable insights and techniques, encouraging self-reflection, setting realistic goals, and seeking external accountability.
You can learn more about Lynne at www.CoachingADDvantages.com, and text keyword “HACK” to 33777 to get her 7 Fool-Proof Productivity Hacks for unfocused professionals!
Tara McGillicuddy is the Producer, Owner and Co-host of the ADHD Support Talk Radio Podcast. You may contact Tara with general questions or feedback about the podcast,
adhdsupporttal...

[@Miss_Elaine_]

Exactly what I needed to hear. I'm at my wits end with my own behaviors.

[@LynneEdris]

I'm so glad you found it helpful! You're definitely not alone!

[@austyn5004]

Listening to this while I avoid all things I need to do in order to do the things I want to do. 😌😏🙃

[@JdaPhoeniX9]

Thank you. This one hit home! Your insight is awesome - this should be taught in schools worldwide 👌🏾

[@LynneEdris]

Thank you so much, Jay! I'm so glad you found it helpful.

[@celesteannlopezcastillo2058]

How did you know? I've been struggling with this so much it's driving me to tears. Thank you so much for this.

[@shanaya6749]

I've been struggling too and I feel helpless and I just cry myself to sleep evry night 😔

[@celesteannlopezcastillo2058]

@@shanaya6749 Virtual hug to you. And thank you. Your comment made me feel less alone. And you're not alone either. We're all in this struggle together.

[@LynneEdris]

I'm really glad it helped! It often takes a while to sink in, so you might want to listen again! 😉

[@shanaya6749]

@@celesteannlopezcastillo2058 ur comment made my day a lil better 😭😭🥺

[@karlaps3994]

@Celeste and @Shenaya, I feel you guys. Sending you both mental hugs and support. I hope things have gotten better (my comment is 2 months later, but still).

[@vixsplays7170]

Great video, great content, relatively succinct and repeating the points was really helpful. Thank you.

[@leslielacktman8819]

It was extremely helpful to hear this message Lynne. Your explanation of the habit loop, why, and how to break it will be listened too often and written in my notebook and pasted on my wall. This is a life-changer!

[@LynneEdris]

I'm so glad you found it helpful, and that you're using your creative problem-solving to keep it in front of you!

[@adrose006]

This makes a lot of sense! Thank you for breaking this down ❤️

[@doloresdaphne8541]

THANK U

[@TopRankRundown]

My family is extremely unsupportive when it comes to my adhd and I think it’s because of a lack of understanding. Do you have any suggestions on how to get them on board and not think it’s just some excuse?

[@LynneEdris]

Education is key--when you find something from a reputable source that resonates with them, try to share it if they're open. It may not be your family, for starters, but make sure you're surrounding yourself with people who do "get" and appreciate you whenever you can

[@jeffm2018]

I NEED HELP