Hey friends! I'm Nicole, a creative entrepreneur, educator, and advocate for neurodivergent minds. As someone who has navigated the unique challenges that come with being both neurodivergent and a business owner, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to balance the need for structure with the desire for creative freedom. Having ADHD and dyslexia has shaped the way I work and manage my time, and I’ve made it my mission to help other neurodivergent entrepreneurs embrace their strengths while finding strategies that genuinely work for them.
One thing I often hear from fellow neurodivergent creatives is how much they struggle with time management. The pressure to follow traditional systems can feel overwhelming, rigid, and not built for how our brains work. But it is possible to find a balance between creativity and structure—on your terms. Let’s dive into some neurodivergent-friendly time management techniques to help you get things done while keeping your creativity flowing.
Time-Blocking: Creating Structure Without Stifling Creativity
Time-blocking is one of my favorite tools. It’s all about setting aside specific blocks of time for different tasks throughout your day or week. The beauty of time-blocking is that it gives you the structure you need without forcing you to stick to rigid deadlines that might feel suffocating.
For neurodivergent creatives, time-blocking can help in a couple of ways:
Less Overwhelm – By dedicating blocks of time to each task, you’re giving your brain fewer decisions to make. Knowing that you have a set time for everything (including creative work!) helps reduce that overwhelming feeling of having a million things to do at once.
Creative Flexibility – Your time blocks don’t have to be all about productivity. Block out time for creative brainstorming, breaks, and even that spontaneous idea session when inspiration strikes. You can customize this system so that it fits your unique rhythm.
The best part? You’re in control. If something doesn’t work, you can adjust the blocks and the tasks without derailing your schedule.
The Pomodoro Technique: Focus in Short Bursts
Another neurodivergent-friendly method I love is the Pomodoro Technique. This method is perfect when your brain struggles to focus on tasks for long stretches. Here’s how it works:
Pick a task.
Set a timer for 25 minutes (a "Pomodoro" - the Italian word for tomato, inspired by the old-fashioned tomato kitchen timer).
Focus on that task for the full 25 minutes.
Take a 5-minute break once the timer goes off.
After four Pomodoros, take a longer break (around 15-30 minutes).
I use the Flow App on my computer to apply this technique automatically. It’s a free app that keeps track of time and pops up on the entire screen when it’s time for a break. This technique plays into how neurodivergent minds can hyper-focus for short bursts and need frequent breaks to recharge. It’s flexible, works with your attention span, and still gives you a sense of accomplishment without burning you out.
Mixing Creativity with Structure
Finding that balance between creativity and structure is critical for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. Here are a few more strategies to make time management work for you:
Batching Tasks – Group similar tasks together (like answering emails, editing, or content creation) and work on them during a specific time block. This reduces task-switching and keeps you focused.
Schedule Breaks—Remember to block out time for rest. Giving your brain space to recharge is just as important as completing your tasks.
Prioritize Self-Care —Structure your day to allow time for self-care routines. Whether it’s a walk, meditation, or grabbing coffee, give yourself time to reset and stay grounded.
Ready to Take Control of Your Time with Neurodivergent-Friendly Time Management Techniques?
If this sounds like something you need in your life, I’ve got something to help you get started! Download my Neurodivergent-Friendly Guide to Time-Blocking—it’s my most popular guide, that delves into the “why” behind time blocking, is jam-packed with tips, and includes a downloadable, editable template to create your own time-blocking calendar. Whether you’re managing a creative business, juggling multiple projects, or just trying to find your flow, this guide will help you design a schedule that works for your brain. Click here to grab your guide and create more time for what matters most.
Let’s turn time management into a tool that fuels your creativity, not something that holds you back!
Cheers,
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