SCOTT SHAPIRO, MD - ADULT ADD + ADHD NYC PSYCHIATRIST

 

Introduction

Many people with Adult ADHD have difficulty accomplishing some of their most valued goals. They struggle with:

• Prioritizing
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Follow-through

These challenges lead to frustration, demoralization, and anxiety. Fortunately, proven strategies can help you overcome these challenges.

This article discusses five strategies to reach your goals and includes insights into why ADHD makes goal-setting challenging and how you can achieve productivity and success.

Why ADHD Makes Goal-Setting Challenging

ADHD affects executive functioning—the brain’s ability to plan, organize, and manage time. This can make breaking down big goals into manageable steps or staying motivated difficult. Research shows that ADHD brains often struggle with delayed gratification, making long-term goals less immediately rewarding. However, these challenges don’t mean success is out of reach. Tailored strategies can help you stay focused and achieve remarkable outcomes.

Strategy 1: Make Them Specific

Effective goals are specific and measurable. For example, “I will run for 30 minutes three times a week at 6 pm” is more effective than saying “I will exercise more often.” Similarly, “When I go out to eat, I will remove the bread basket from the table” is more actionable than “I will eat better.”

Neuroscience supports this approach. The brain’s prefrontal cortex, which governs planning and decision-making, benefits from clear instructions. Specific goals reduce cognitive load and make it easier for the brain to focus on actionable steps.

Strategy 2: Set a Due Date

Specify a due date for the goal. For example, “By March 10th, 2023, I will write the proposal for my research project” or “By July 2023, I will weigh 170 lbs.” Deadlines create urgency and structure, helping you stay on track.

Psychological studies show that time constraints activate a sense of urgency, which can help individuals with ADHD overcome procrastination. Deadlines tap into the brain’s reward system, providing a sense of accomplishment when milestones are met.

Strategy 3: Create a Strategy

Have a written strategy to accomplish the goal. Does a schedule need to be rearranged? Would a class or trainer be helpful? Breaking your goal into actionable steps—and addressing potential barriers—improves your chances of success.

Creating a roadmap activates the brain’s problem-solving networks. By breaking down complex tasks, you reduce the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed, a common issue for individuals with ADHD. Research shows that planning activates neural pathways associated with executive functioning, increasing the likelihood of follow-through.

Strategy 4: Incorporate Accountability

Accountability significantly improves your success and decreases procrastination. Share your goals with a trusted friend, coach, or therapist and schedule regular check-ins. This external support can provide motivation and ensure steady progress.

Social accountability works because humans are wired for connection. Knowing someone else is invested in your progress triggers the brain’s social reward system, making it harder to abandon your goals. Studies show that sharing your plans with others increases your commitment and follow-through.

Strategy 5: Write It Down

Written goals improve the chance of success. Goals that are written and referred to daily serve as reminders for behaviors and choices. Use tools like a journal, planner, or digital app to keep your goals visible and actionable.

A landmark study from Dr. Gail Matthews at Dominican University found that people who wrote down their goals were 42% more likely to achieve them. Writing engages multiple brain regions, including those involved in memory and focus, reinforcing commitment to the task.

Additional ADHD-Friendly Tools

Adults with ADHD can benefit from using specific tools and techniques:

• Time-blocking: Allocate specific times for tasks.
• Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25-minute intervals, followed by short breaks.
• Digital tools: Apps like Todoist or Trello help track progress and deadlines.

Experiment to find what works best for your unique needs.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Perfectionism can be paralyzing. Remember, progress matters more than perfection. Celebrate small wins, and don’t let setbacks derail your efforts. Adjust and move forward with persistence. Research highlights the importance of positive reinforcement, which helps sustain motivation and build new habits.

How a Psychiatrist Can Help

For many adults with ADHD, achieving goals requires a combination of strategies, therapy, and sometimes medication. As a psychiatrist based in New York City, I’ve helped highly motivated professionals turn their ambitions into actionable plans by:

• Identifying and challenging limiting beliefs.
• Developing customized productivity strategies.
• Addressing underlying emotional barriers.

Take the First Step Today

Creating goals and using these strategies improves productivity by making goals effective and establishing accountability. For adults with ADHD, setting and achieving goals isn’t just about reaching milestones; it’s about building confidence, creating structure, and unlocking potential.

Visit www.scottshapiromd.com to learn more about how I help adults with ADHD achieve their goals and unlock their full potential. Let’s work together to create a path to productivity and success.

Bibliography

• Barkley, R., Kevin Murphy. Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. A Clinical Workbook. Guilford Press. 2006.
• Canfield, Jack. The Success Principles. Harper Collins. 2005.
• Young, S., Jessica Braham. ADHD in Adults. John Wiley and Sons Ltd. West Sussex, England. 2007.