3 overwhelmed, spinning my wheels, undiagnosed adhd

 S: 8am

I just know that I am not living life to the fullest.  

I feel like I'm "spinning my wheels" the majority of the time.

I just googled "what to do when you have so many things to work on" and google AI overview spit back:
"

When you have a lot to work on, the best approach is to prioritize your tasks by creating a to-do list, identifying the most important items, and then systematically tackling them one at a time; this can involve breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, setting deadlines, and eliminating distractions to stay focused. 

Key strategies to manage a heavy workload:

• Make a list and prioritize: Write down everything you need to do, then rank tasks based on their importance and urgency. 
• Delegate tasks: If possible, delegate less critical tasks to others to lighten your load. 
• Time management: Allocate specific time slots for each task and use timers to stay focused. 
• Set boundaries: Establish clear work hours and learn to say no to additional commitments when necessary. 
• Break down large tasks: Divide complex projects into smaller, more manageable steps. 
• Minimize distractions: Find a quiet space to work and limit interruptions from technology or others. 
• Take breaks: Regularly step away to recharge and avoid burnout. 
• Practice mindfulness: Meditation or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and improve focus. "

I know I have a hard time prioritizing and I also procrastinate.  (*I wonder if there is an app to help prioritize with ease?)  I have never been formally diagnosed with ADHD but I struggle with (the following provided by AI overview when I googled "which adhd symptoms do I have"):

"

• Inattention: Difficulty paying attention, getting distracted, or following instructions
• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, or having difficulty waiting their turn
• Disorganization: Poor time management, planning, or organization"

This youtube video by Dr. Tracey Marks:
How To Power Through ADHD: Proven Strategies to Crush Tough Tasks - YouTube

Dr. Tracey Marks

sounded relatable and promising and I plan on using the tips and also the suggestions provided by google AI.  I also have a very hard time following through on the majority of things.  I am trying not to go into the self-pity cycle, but I struggle so much and I suspect that most people don't have these struggles.  

Problem solving mode:  I am going to review the above and implement the strategies.  I will follow up in a week, next Friday.  I gotta go...I have work to do!

E: 8:37am
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S: 8:51am
I just found myself saying outloud "Just one task at a time.  Follow through!"
It gets me pumped, but here I am excited and taking a side quest to note it here...talk about distractibility!  I gotta go!  I gotta get back to following through!
E: 8:53am
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S: 11:03am
I'm so overwhelmed with paper.  I don't have a good system and I can't find anything when I need it.  I need to simplify.
I searched "easy way to manage paper" on youtube and going to do this now (I've tried it before but didn't get to finish, but I'm going to try it again):
How to Organize Paper FAST with my 5-Sort Method
E: 11:06am
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S: 11:20am
I'm trying to finish one task at a time, but keep coming across other things to add to my "to do" list and afraid it's going to get lost in the shuffle.  I googled "should you have a master to do list"  and AI overview spit back:
"Yes, having a "master to-do list" is generally a good idea as it helps you centralize all your tasks and commitments in one place, providing a comprehensive overview of everything you need to accomplish, allowing for better prioritization and organization of your workload across different projects and timeframes. 

Key benefits of a master to-do list:

• Clarity and organization:

  By listing all tasks in one location, you can easily see the big picture of your responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed by scattered lists. 
• Effective prioritization:

  You can categorize tasks based on urgency and importance, helping you focus on the most critical items first. 
• Long-term planning:

  A master list can include both immediate tasks and longer-term goals, allowing you to manage projects with different deadlines effectively. 
• Reduced stress:

  Seeing all your tasks in one place can alleviate the feeling of forgetting important things and provide a sense of control over your workload. 

 

How to use a master to-do list:

• Capture everything:

  Write down every single task that comes to mind, regardless of how small or large. 
• Categorize and prioritize:

  Group tasks by project, context, or due date, and then assign priority levels. 
• Regularly update:

  Review your master list frequently and add new tasks as they arise, removing completed items. 
• Create daily to-do lists:

  Pull relevant tasks from your master list to create focused daily agendas. "
  
  Question now is: where?  I guess I'll put it on Word for now.  I don't want to overthink and get stuck.  There!  I got that started in word.  It doesn't have to be perfect, I can always change it later.
  E:  11:36am

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S: 3:06pm
I didn't end up starting the How to Organize Paper FAST with my 5-Sort Method .  I have been finishing what I started on my to do list such as "papers on the d.r. table and clean/org. desk."  Both of which I completed.  Now I'm off to washing dishes from breakfast/lunch/whatever else leftover from last night.
E: 3:10 pm.