ADHD and Body Doubling the Magic Spark for Focus

Danielle
Neurodivergent Out Loud
2 min readDec 18, 2023

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Let’s talk about ADHD and the battle for focus. It’s like trying to herd cats sometimes, isn’t it? But don’t worry, we’ve got a trick up our sleeves, and it’s called “body doubling.” Body doubling is THE technique that successful ADHDers use to help deal with ADHD by simply teaming up with someone else. Get ready to learn how it can help you keep calm, ditch that overwhelm, and finally conquer your to-do list!

What’s Body Doubling?

No, it’s not some new dance move. Body doubling is a fancy way of saying you’ve got a buddy to hang with while you work. This person doesn’t have to do the work for you; they’re just there to keep you on track.

Benefits of Body Doubling for ADHD:

Keep Your Cool:

You know that rollercoaster of emotions that comes with ADHD? Body doubling can help you handle it. Having someone there, even if they’re just chillin’, can make you feel calmer and less impulsive. It’s like having a built-in calming system.

Dump That Overwhelm:

Feeling swamped by even the simplest tasks? We get it. ADHD can make everyday stuff feel like climbing Mount Everest. Body doubling is your trusty sidekick, breaking tasks into bite-sized pieces. They’ll give you gentle reminders or just be there when you need a pep talk. Say goodbye to overwhelm!

Check Off Tasks:

The ultimate goal, right? ADHD can make you procrastinate like a champ. But with a body double, you’ve got someone holding you accountable. Plus, they’ll help you create and stick to a game plan. Task completion, here you come!

Here are some quick tips for Body Doubling:

- Join a community of ADHDers like you who’ve got your back and understand your quirks.

- Tell them exactly what you need from them. Communication is key!

- Set a timer for work and breaks — structure is your best friend.

- Make your workspace ADHD-friendly (goodbye, distractions if you don’t know how to do this. Check out my training for Distraction to Action!).

- Get yourself a killer to-do list (if you have never found a version of doing this that works for you, join us in ADHD UPgrade Academy, where we teach you how to do this every day). Organize like a boss.

- Stay open to feedback and be flexible. It’s all about teamwork, baby!

Don’t let ADHD throw you off your game. Embrace body doubling and kick those focus issues to the curb. With the power of a supportive buddy, you’ll be ready to handle whatever tasks come your way. Whether you’re the one with ADHD or you’re helping someone who does, body doubling is your secret weapon for better focus and task-crushing success. So come find your focus and get stuff done — you’ve got this!

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Danielle
Neurodivergent Out Loud

Danielle Ralston, is an ADHD Master Life, Clarity/Goal Setting, Career, Entrepreneurship & Sales Coach I have been an ADHD coach for 25 years and counting.