How to Increase Motivation with ADHD
Many people with ADHD struggle to find the motivation to get things done. This can be extremely frustrating, especially when you feel like you’re capable of more than you’re currently achieving. It’s important to remember that with a little effort, it is possible to increase your motivation and reach your full potential.
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects motivation, concentration, and impulsivity. It’s estimated that 9.8% of school-aged children and 2.8% of adults have ADHD.
Symptoms of ADHD include:
- Difficulty focusing on tasks
- Feeling overwhelmed by tasks
- Boredom due to a lack of interest in the task
- Disorganization
- Procrastination
- Inability to sit still
- Difficulty waiting in line
- Frequently losing items
- Forgetting simple tasks
- And more
How Does ADHD Affect Motivation?
The root cause of ADHD is still not fully understood. However, there are a few key insights that help us understand why people with ADHD tend to lack motivation.
People with ADHD May Lack Dopamine
One study found that adults with ADHD had a dysfunctional dopamine reward pathway. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s responsible for motivation, focus, and pleasure, helping the mind recognize and seek out rewards.
A dysfunctional dopamine reward pathway means the brain struggles to recognize rewards and, therefore, is unmotivated to act.
People with ADHD Tend to Be Easily Overwhelmed
Because ADHD causes problems with focus and concentration, people with the condition often feel like they’re constantly trying to catch up. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed and bogged down, causing many to give up before even starting.
Tips to Increase Motivation with ADHD
People with ADHD don’t have to let their condition define them. Instead, they can engage in some lifestyle changes to help set themselves up for success. It’s not always easy, but reaching your fullest potential is worth it.
1. Find Your Why
Your why is the most important reason to do anything. Finding your why means understanding your goals and what you’re working towards. When you have a clear purpose, it’s easier to stay motivated.
To find your why, ask yourself:
- What are my long-term goals?
- What is my career path?
- What do I want to achieve in the next year, five years, or ten years?
- What do I value most in life?
Answering these questions can help you identify your why so you can stay motivated as you work toward your goal.
2. Get Organized
Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Constantly losing things in your house? One of the best things you can do to increase your motivation is to get organized. This means creating a system for yourself that works and sticking to it.
There are a few different ways you can go about getting organized:
Arranging your space: Having an organized physical space can help your mind feel more at ease. This means decluttering and setting up a system for the things you use most often.
Arranging your time: You can also get organized by creating a daily or weekly schedule. This will help you structure your time so you can make the most of it.
Arranging your tasks: Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces can make them feel less daunting. You can also try using a task manager to keep track of what you need to do.
3. Create a Support System
Trying to increase your motivation on your own can be tough. Luckily, you don’t have to go it alone. Creating a support system of family and friends can make a world of difference.
Your support system can help you in a few different ways:
Encouragement: Sometimes, all you need is a little encouragement to keep going. Your support system can provide this when you’re feeling down.
Accountability: It’s easier to stay on track when you have someone to hold you accountable. Your support system can check in with you and help you stay accountable for your goals.
Assistance: When you’re feeling overwhelmed, your support system can lend a helping hand. Whether it’s taking on some of your tasks or just being there for moral support, they can lighten your load.
Get Professional Help for ADHD
If you’re struggling to increase your motivation, it may be time to seek professional help. An experienced mental health provider can help you understand your condition and develop strategies to manage it.
Mile High Psychiatry is a leading provider of mental health services. We offer a variety of treatment methods to help people with ADHD and other mental health conditions reach their potential.
If you’re interested in learning more about our services, contact us today. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and help you become the best version of yourself.
