How long have you been living with stress of dealing with problems that you simply haven't taken care of yet? Although many people don't think too seriously about making a difference in their own lives, it really pays to focus on taking time for yourself to address ongoing problems. I started taking more of a personal inventory a few years back, and it was obvious that I needed to make some changes. I started this blog as a springboard for myself to work towards impactful change, and I think I have really done a lot to improve things in the long run.
You might know a few people who need help organizing their lives, but if you have a loved one with ADHD, that need is perhaps more pressing. Maintaining focus, being distracted by impulsive thoughts and actions, and failing to complete basic tasks—these are all hallmarks of ADHD and can make daily life all the more complicated. Could an ADHD coach help your loved one to improve the quality of their life?
Specifically Formulated
ADHD coaching shares some similarities with more generalized life coaching, or even with cognitive behavior therapy. But the approach is specifically formulated to help someone with ADHD learn the best methods for carrying out practical daily tasks in a way that's time-focused and goal-oriented. In its simplest terms, it's about getting things done—whatever those things happen to be.
Daily Tasks
The practical daily tasks that must be accomplished will depend on the individual. They may include professional and social obligations, as well as basic chores and self-care. An ADHD coach will work with your loved one to identify clear, attainable goals—which may be as simple as remembering to call friends back, or making sure the refrigerator isn't empty. Manageable methods for achieving these goals will be determined.
Interactions
The coach will meet with your loved one to discuss goals, strategies, and expectations. Further interactions will be needed, and should periodically be in person, but telephone and text follow-ups and check-ins are workable options.
Staying Motivated
This ongoing contact between your loved one and their ADHD coach will allow them to discuss which goals were achieved, how they were achieved, and which goals were abandoned (and why). Of course, there won't be any penalties for lack of success, but there will ideally be a sense of accountability, helping your loved one to redouble their efforts, complete necessary daily tasks, and improve their overall quality of life. It's about helping your loved one stay motivated, allowing them to see the positive outcome of achieving daily tasks.
Supplemental Support
ADHD coaching can be viewed as supplemental support to any medication or therapy your loved one may already be receiving. It's not intended to replace any existing treatment and can be discussed with your loved one's therapist or physician. Although this type of coaching is primarily intended for adults with ADHD who wish to live independently, there can also be benefits for school children and college students with ADHD.
So if your loved one's ADHD is making it hard for them to accomplish basic daily tasks, and their quality of life is suffering for it, you should explore the benefits of specialized coaching.