Thriving with ADHD as a Mom: Strategies for Focus and Productivity

Being a mom is challenging. Being a mom with ADHD? That’s a whole different level of overwhelming.

For years, I struggled with time management, forgetfulness, and completing tasks. I thought I was just disorganized—until I was diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Suddenly, everything made sense.

I first suspected I had ADHD when I started noticing symptoms in my son during virtual learning. Looking back, I realized that I had been masking my symptoms for years—overcompensating with perfectionism, strict routines, and anxiety when things weren’t in order. But when life became too busy to maintain that structure, everything fell apart—missed deadlines, unfinished tasks, and constant stress.

But here’s what I’ve learned: ADHD doesn’t mean you can’t be productive or successful. It just means you need strategies that work for YOU.

How I Manage My ADHD as a Mom

Over the years, I’ve discovered small but effective ways to stay on track and reduce stress. These strategies help me manage my own ADHD symptoms while juggling the demands of motherhood.

1. Planning Is Essential 📅

Not planning while managing ADHD is a recipe for stress and chaos. I’ve learned to make planning a priority, using: 

✔ A physical planner—for personal tasks and daily to-do lists. 

✔ A digital calendar—for business meetings, training, and work-related deadlines. 

✔ Reminders on my phone—for everything from appointments to school pickups.

2. Separating Personal & Business Planning Helps 📝

I used to try and keep everything in one place, but that led to overwhelm and missed details. Now, I separate my personal and business planning to make everything clearer.

3. Color Coding Is a Game-Changer 🎨

I color-code tasks, events, and responsibilities—it actually makes my brain happy. Maybe it’s the dopamine boost? Whatever it is, it works!

4. Setting Reminders Keeps Me on Track ⏰

I use my phone’s reminder app to alert me about deadlines, errands, and appointments. ADHD makes it easy to forget things, but reminders keep me accountable.

5. Showing Myself Grace & Patience 💛

I used to beat myself up for not being on time, forgetting things, or struggling to focus. But I’ve learned that managing ADHD isn’t about fixing yourself—it’s about supporting yourself. I remind myself daily:

✨ My brain is wired differently, and that’s okay. 

✨ I don’t have to be perfect to be productive. 

✨ Progress is better than perfection.

6. Considering Medical Support 💊

For some, prescription medication is a helpful tool in managing ADHD. If you’re struggling, talk to a licensed mental health professional or primary care doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Being a Mom with ADHD: You CAN Thrive

Managing ADHD while raising a child—especially one who may also have ADHD—can be exhausting. But with the right strategies, self-compassion, and support, you can be more focused, productive, and thrive in your role as a mom.

🌟 Find a planning system that works for you.

🌟 Set reminders to help with forgetfulness.

🌟 Give yourself grace and patience.

🌟 Seek professional support if needed.

ADHD doesn’t define you—it just means you need a plan that works for your brain. And with that plan, you can absolutely thrive. 💛

Let’s Talk: What ADHD Strategies Work for You?

Drop a comment below and share your best ADHD management tips! Let’s support and learn from each other. ✨

Thanks for taking the time to join me on this journey! From My Heart to Yours, Your Empowerment and Life Skills Coach