Do you have trouble starting and keeping up with a routine? If you answered yes, then you are not alone. Many people with ADD are very challenged by routines yet know that when they follow a routine it really helps them. So what can you do to help support yourself in starting and following a routine?
Keep it simple! Start with only a few simple things in your routines. When you have successfully followed this simple routine then gradually add in other steps to your routine.
Connect it with something else! It’s easy to make something a habit when it’s connected to something else that you already do regularly.
Get Support! Seeking support from somebody can really help you with your routines. Maybe it could be a friend, family member or even an ADD Coach.
What is something else you have done that has helped you be successful in following a routine?
5 replies to "Support with Routines"
I have a mantra in my head of things to check before I leave the house. Doors locked, lights off, heaters off, vcr programmed, dog and cat organised, hair brushed, teeth cleaned, keys in pocket. Sometimes I go back and double check things, but by reciting them all, I don’t miss any.
If I have to take something with me out the door, I put it near my keys, or near the front door.
I know that what helps me to be more organized and to keep my life in order is to keep all my appts. in a little calender book in my purse, then I have another calender that I keep in the kitchen and I write the same appts. there, that way I can’t forget if they are posted in both places.
I have subscribed to Flylady on the net. She can really help with setting up routines. However, sometimes I am too stubborn to do them or in a hurry!!
One of the things that helps with routines is the placement of the stuff I will need to carry out my various daily routines.
Not only do I do the same things during certain times of the day I place the items I will need for each in the same place every time it is used. . .and God help any one who dares to move them. . . .
I have found out that placement of stuff needs to be convenient for me. It doesn;t matter if it is the “normal” place. Some times a little trial and error is needed before I find just the right spot for necessary items to “live”
I learned I do best if my keys are kept on the out side of my purse. I use a large construction “D” clip that is attached to a metal loop on the outside of my purse. All of my keys “live there” when not in use. My “D” clip only goes on my belt loop while at work or my metal ring the moment I leave.I will not let go of them unless they are one of those two places because if I do I know I will be frantically searching for them. I have a habit of attaching the “D” clip to my belt loop when out of the car after arriving to work. The moment I get into the car to leave work it is immediately transfered to it’s metal ring.
Each set of keys has it’s own split ring this prevents the weight of all of my keys from ruining sensitive items like my cars ignition. I remove the necessary key use it and again refuse to let it go until it is back in it’s place because like the entire “D” clip if I lay it down any where else I will be frantically looking for it. I really hate it when I can’t finds my car keys or the keys to the tool building every one will need to get into so they can work.
Making object placement a routine prevents me from having make looking for the stuff I need a routine. So not only should the task at hand become routine necessary item placement should become a routine also Sense placing object necessary for my various routine task is as much a part of the routine and the action I need to take allows all my routines to go more smoothly thus increasing my chances of wanting to repeat the experience on a regular basis.
I know object placement seems obvious however when I first began trying to make certain routines habit I often failed because I did not know that nothing throws a routine off quicker last minute search and rescue. . . .
Hello, I think this is a wonderful site that people such as myself can turn to for information & support. I’ve very recently have gone further into my mid-thirties and have struggled forever with everyday things. Thank Goodness for all the info out there that made doing personal research easier to come by after all these years. The more that is out there to know and learn the more awareness and understanding will come about. I have a complex question:
With more learning tools out there for ADDers, like myself, I personally, have yet to come across anything for people, Adults included, who have a Block and are trying to pass their Written, which is actually on a computer,-test, to learn how to Drive, a manual or something ? For those who have any form of a learning disability or may be a little slow. Just as a Help or a Guide. Something We can understand. I know most of this world, as gorgeous as it is, just typically, wasn’t etched out by-man for those of us who fall through the cracks, and may have some struggles with what was meant for the Mainstreamers in-mind. I’ve also have been struggling tooth and nail to pass the GED test, mostly due to Math & being Timed-ouch! Twice bitten! Seven points shy of passing both times. Do you know of anything out there that could help?
I’m sure I’m NOT the only one ! Just thought I’d try to ask you, or anyone out there, who knows what I mean. ??? Thank You;Sincerely, Mona.