Managing productivity with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to harness focus, minimize procrastination, and work with your brain rather than against it.

We spoke with three ADHD coaches: Francinne O'Rourke, Agnieszka Chmiel and Steve August and asked them for tips on how to boost productivity at work if you have ADHD.

Here are 20 expert-backed productivity tips to help you stay on track and get things done.

Breaking the Cycle of Procrastivity (Francinne O'Rourke)

Francinne O'Rourke helps late-diagnosed female founders and leaders with ADHD transform distractions into strengths. Here are her top strategies for shifting from busy work to meaningful progress:

1. Spot Your Patterns

   Notice when you slip into procrastination. Are you endlessly researching instead of writing? Organizing instead of executing? Awareness is the first step.

2. Break Big Tasks into Small Steps

   If a task feels overwhelming, your brain will avoid it. Break it down into manageable pieces.

3. Use the 5-Minute Rule

   Commit to just five minutes. Starting is the hardest part, but once you're in motion, it's easier to continue.

4. Time Block & Minimize Distractions

   Dedicate specific time slots to important tasks and eliminate distractions (yes, that includes “quick” social media checks).

5. Leverage Body Doubling

   Work alongside someone else, even virtually. This technique boosts focus and accountability.

Structuring Your Work for Success (Agnieszka Chmiel)

Agnieszka Chmiel, an ADHD coach with firsthand experience, shares the organizational methods that transformed her productivity:

1. Create a Daily Plan

   A predictable structure reduces stress. Plan tasks the night before so you start with clarity.

2. Prioritize with the Eisenhower Matrix

   Divide tasks into four categories: urgent/important, not urgent/important, etc. This ensures you tackle the right work first.

3. Use Task Management Tools

   Relying on memory isn’t effective. Apps like Todoist, Yaranga as an ADHD-friendly PKM and Google Calendar help you stay on track.

4. Adopt the Pomodoro Technique

   Work in 25-minute bursts, then take a 5-minute break to prevent burnout.

5. Eliminate Distractions

   Set up a “work zone” free of distractions. Use website blockers to stay focused.

6. Incorporate Rewards

   Motivation matters. Reward yourself with a small treat after completing significant tasks.

Optimizing Productivity as an Entrepreneur (Steve August)

Steve August, founder of the ADHD Entrepreneur Accelerator, shares how he sustainably doubled productivity while avoiding burnout:

1. Embrace the 2-Hour Workday Mindset

   Peak executive function lasts about two hours. Prioritize essential work during this time.

2. Daily Co-Working Sessions

   Body doubling isn’t just for focus—it builds momentum. Join or host daily work sessions.

3. Plan Rest Intentionally

   Resting feels counterintuitive, but it’s crucial. Schedule downtime before burnout forces it.

4. Stick to a Simple Business Framework

   Avoid shiny object syndrome. Focus on three core functions: Attract, Convert, Deliver.

5. Batch Similar Tasks

   Context-switching drains energy. Group similar tasks together to improve efficiency.

6. Track Progress Over Time

   ADHD brains struggle with long-term consistency. Document wins so you don’t lose sight of progress.

7. Use External Accountability

   Tell partners, teams, or communities about your goals. External deadlines help ADHD brains stay engaged.

8. Simplify Decisions

   Too many choices lead to paralysis. Limit options when structuring your workflow.

9. Trust the Process

   ADHD brains crave novelty, but consistency builds sustainable success. Stick with what works, even when results aren’t immediate.

Useful links as a conclusion:

• NeuroSpicy Mastering - high-impact coaching, training & support services for entrepreneurs and leaders with ADHD
• ADHD weekly dashboard
• Free ADHD assessment from Steve August