ADHD Friendly Productivity Systems

Introduction

• Discusses the challenge of traditional productivity planners for ADHD brains.
• Cara McIll introduces herself as an ADHD coach.
• Emphasizes the need for ADHD-friendly productivity systems.

Key Qualities of ADHD-Friendly Productivity Systems

1. Calming to the Nervous System

• Avoid overwhelming systems with cluttered interfaces.
• Opt for visually appealing designs that promote happiness.

2. Reduces Decision Fatigue

• Avoid complex systems with too many databases or pages.
• Choose flexible systems that prioritize important information.

3. Intuitive Interface

• Important for periods when consistency in planning is lost.
• Should be easy to navigate without relearning after a break.

4. Supports Nonlinear Thinking

• Systems should accommodate various thinking processes.
• Paper planners are less effective due to fixed layouts.
• Need space to create context for notes and projects.

5. Dopamine-Enhancing Experience

• Should feel rewarding to use, increasing dopamine levels.
• Encourages regular interaction with the productivity tool.

Example of an ADHD-Friendly Tool: XTiles

Introduction to XTiles

• Described as ADHD-friendly and intuitive.
• Offers a structure to build upon that feels calming.

Features of XTiles

• Intuitive weekly spread with notes, calendars, tasks, projects.
• Facilitates nonlinear thinking with adaptable task/project organization.
• Reflects user's capacity to avoid overcommitting.
• Allows for project planning with customizable designs.
• Enhances dopamine with pleasing visual designs and customization.

Personalization and Flexibility

• Users can customize to their preferences, adding personal elements.
• Offers templates for various use cases, like homework or meal plans.
• Easy to adopt and personalize layouts and templates.

Conclusion

• XTiles combines simplicity, flexibility, beauty, and fun.
• Encourages finding a system that aligns with one's cognitive pattern.
• Importance of structure, enjoyment, and remembering tasks.