Being a Product Manager with Adult ADHD | Alison's Story + Tips

[@LibrarianChef]

Some comments as an older person with ADHD: - moving my desk is disastrous as I need to know where everything is and the environment has to be quiet and solitary. - Constantly changing tasks lowers productivity as it takes me longer to recover after switching between tasks and especially back to a task. - I agree that hand written notes are the best way to internalize the content for some reason. Electronic notes are not retained to the same degree in my brain. - Structure is paramount for me being productive. I work a desk job, and, without a regimented routine to structure the work, things do not satisfactorily get completed. However, comorbidities may exacerbate this need. - People with ADHD are very poor judges of their own productivity or success as these can be grossly over- or underestimated. - Meds can help a lot if things are unmanageable.

[@Cremalab]

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences + perspectives! It's always so fascinating and enlightening to learn just how differently ADHD can impact people and showcase throughout our lives. Structure is so important for me, too! It helps to build both mental and physical boundaries throughout my day. - Alison

[@allyfrasier6306]

I like your comments. Yes, structure is helpful and I personally don't enjoy things being ambiguous in terms of expectations placed upon me. I seem to judge myself extremely harshly and struggle with perfectionism and my own inner critic about doing more, continuously seeking to improve and learn. Not everyone has this mindset and gets frustrated with my personal drive. Would you consider sharing experiences with medications? I'm recently learning that they can be the ultimate game changer for helping with task completion. I'm often fantastic at starting tasks, but the discipline required to complete them is a very conscious effort and a daily struggle. Great point about not moving spaces due to the need to have things in order. My movement is of just one thing, all else remains in place. So, in my case, I move my bed as I have 4 beautiful views, and I move the position of my desk, turning it towards one window or the other. So not a big difference but I enjoy it. I would not manage moving all my things around though. That'd be a total disaster in my case 🤣

[@LibrarianChef]

@@allyfrasier6306 sure, I have tried both long acting Adderall and Methylphenidate. I need them to just stay at my desk, i.e. stay seated, during repetitive, boring tasks. As most of my job involves data entry in one form or another, this is quite often. They also help to regulate my emotional reactions a little bit, giving some ability to pause before reacting, but not a lot. The downside is that I no longer function well without them at all and cannot take med holidays without side effects. If staying on task is really hard and you are ADHD, they can really make a difference. Watch out for the appetite suppressant effect during the daytime and ravenous aftereffects.

[@allyfrasier6306]

@@LibrarianChef thanks for the info. I struggle a lot with staying at a desk. It's essentially a type of torture to me. Next level awful 🌞

[@JoyFay]

I agree more with your comment, I wonder if needing structure and stability has to do with autism.

[@shapesinaframe]

Wow. I'm a PM too but I've never been able to "come out" as having ADHD in a professional setting. How did you arrive at deciding to do this? The stigma is just too real for me. I fear how this information would be used against me, limiting future career opportunities.

[@Cremalab]

It took quite some time, but at one point I heard that someone else felt empowered to seek help when they heard me discussing it, and from then on I realized how much good it could do - not only for myself just by talking it out, but making the conversation more normalized and easier for others, too! As far as limiting career opportunities, it's a fair point to consider. My thoughts are this: everyone has their own day-to-day battles, and if an organization doesn't want to incorporate my perspective into the mix, that's probably not an organization I would want to work for anyhow. We spend the majority of our day at work, and knowing that where I work is a safe + supportive place is one of the biggest factors when choosing where to work! Thanks for sharing & reaching out! - Alison

[@sonja0707]

My limitation was zilch before I was diagnosed, now I have demanded that I receive the support I deserve. Access to work helps and you are protected under the the disability Act 2010 uk

[@bananadane]

@@sonja0707 yes exactly, know what systems will work for you if you " out yourself " that's how I made my decision (this whole video is very relatable)

[@reneemilevoj601]

I started a new job and I just told them day one. Day three I forgot my laptop at home and they were very understanding. If I didn’t tell them about ADHD, I would’ve looked your responsible. The workforce is changing the stigma is going away, thank goodness.

[@hilareef]

This is exactly how I have been feeling - the overwhelm, the lack of motivation, anxiety and like I’m not doing enough while at the same time feeling like I’m exhausted from doing too much. Just like you, I breezed through school and college and the first few years of my career I’ve been very successful. However, recently adding to my life a relationship and a step child, I have been feeling like a “failure” at all the things. Luckily my friend that I shared this overwhelming feelings with told me to look into resources on ADHD and specifically women with ADHD. And just the other day I received my evaluation back and was told I have ADHD, more specifically the inattentive type. It feels so validating and your video is making me feel less alone. Really looking for tools to help in my professional life and personal life to be more focused and fully complete more tasks. Thank you for sharing!

[@Cremalab]

Glad this video could help you, Hilaree!

[@Freakazoid12345]

Well, school is geared towards women, because it's not actual work. That's why men are more likely to work in trades.

[@BeetleSkyGames]

I have ADHD inattentive type. Im sitting here at my Scrum Master Job, trying to organize my team’s backlog, and I see this video in my feed. I really needed this today. Thanks for making this video. You’ve literally hit all my pain points for my professional life. It’s funny that you mentioned shorthand because I just joined an online course for it.

[@daniellemcdonald891]

I dont have a degree but I want to work as a Scrum Master how do I get started? and any free resources?

[@PCP1992]

so now you are watching this instead of doing your team's backlog? :)

[@i2harry]

It’s just so inspiring to see people with ADHD takes it head on and becoming a product “manager”!!

[@fahmeedaalam4616]

I was just recently diagnosed with ADHD. This video explains every single thing I have felt while working in product management, and all of the techniques I have used to stay on top of my tasks. I remember my coworker asking me about the appointment book I had on my desk, and I mentioned needing to time block every little thing that comes up or I may forget. I will never forget the look on his face. And the looks I get from viciously taking notes in meetings in the beginning of my career. Many don’t understand the hoops we jump to stay organized, especially in a career like product management where it is imperative to stay organized, prioritize, stay focused, and see things through to the end.

[@qkranarchist3015]

In my past career, I was directly reprimanded for excessive note taking but it was because I worked in politics and govt officials do not want records of their meetings lol.

[@sadhbheire]

honestly this has been one of the best parts of WFH: to be able to have a notebook on my desk and not have people comment and smirk at it... "why don't you just have notes on apps" etc. and yes ofc it makes sense to have them on apps specially when you dont finish your tasks for the day and need to move to the next day (but this with time also helps you to learn how to do proper to do lists) but the writing aspect, I feel like i remember visually in my memory: oh i wrote that on that page XYZ and it helps so much.. it is this and having a physical A4 flat calendar on my desk. just printed out and ready to be thrown away. it helps os much with seeing dates for delivery of tasks, specially when you are in meetings and have to look for a calendar app.. that stresses me out, because i am "taking other people's time" whilst i am looking through my tabs and loading etc...

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

Honestly, taking lots of notes is just good practice. You can share them with those who could not attend, new joiners who are getting up to speed, use them as a reference further down the line. Plus, even neurotypical people forget things nobody is infallible.

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

I'm a Product Designer with ADHD and I have to say massive respect for being able to perform as a PM with ADHD. I always thought of PMs as ultra organised so I would imagine it's not easy. But, the advantages from it you gave make sense. 👍

[@RahulRanjan674]

hows it being a product designer with ADHD. I have been trying to learn and I'm good but its very difficult to start.

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

@@RahulRanjan674 I think that there are pros and cons. Being adaptable is a big plus in fast-paced tech companies which like to reshuffle priorities and teams. Also, being neurodivergent means that often I look at a problem from a slightly different angle than my colleagues. That doesn't necessarily mean my solutions will be better but I feel that I contribute ideas which often would not have been considered otherwise. On the down side I struggle to meet time lines or identify when to move on to the next step in the process without guidance. I imagine it will get easier with more experience though.

[@amalar4695]

I’m a PM and this is the most relatable video I’ve seen in recent times!! The ‘mark unread’ on slack, freaking out while silencing notifications, organizing info, needing change in daily tasks is everything I do!

[@banquetoftheleviathan1404]

My mom got the adhd and she has always had project management, catering manager, wedding planner jobs lol. She found out she had it cuz i had it

[@razooka]

Omg yes. I move my room /desk around at least every 2 months. It changes my perspective and I get this fresh energy and hope and motivation! I regularly swap desks at work to help lift my motivation at well. I'm lucky we have lots of study nooks and kitchen places. Great video! Id love to know more about how you manage ADHD breaking down long projects into deliverables. I know I'm supposed to do it but I just can't estimate how long something will take to deliver. Your feels about the whole team accountability and not being along is so true! Great video

[@omnitrixsalamander1254]

I do it also 😀

[@hufficag]

Interesting, I have 4 desks at home, plus the coffee table and bed. I love going to coffee shops every afternoon to use my computer. /sometimes staying at home is unbearable.

[@MellesiaLewis]

Wow this is so me. I can’t work from the same area for long. Jesus!

[@paulapenna-loveyourvoice]

I own my own company, and I’m just getting diagnosed now at 54. So much of what you talk about in this video resonate with me- life has just been so much tougher bc of ADHD, and yet I had no idea! My daughter was diagnosed at 20, and it is bc of her that this was even on my radar.

[@smn2275]

I’m looking to get into PM and I am A Certified Scrum Master… and also ADHD!!! Thank you from the Bottom of my heart for doing this video!☺️

[@jeremywheat1062]

Same here on the UX side. I get excited for organization and then loose my interest. Thank you for sharing.

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for watching!

[@Copilitafaraminte]

24:32 The explanation is that new things excite us with ADHD. We get bored from every repetitive task, even from the same environment. Changing something about your tasks makes them interesting again. Hope you understand what I'm saying.

[@zlatakrstic3502]

I was searching for an answer similar to this one. Yes, I agree! I also like to do this and for me it represents like a "new start" and I like to start something new :D :D

[@chroniclesofnia1514]

I am also a PM with ADHD. Your note that ADHD really helps with this job is spot on - it is actually my strength - the ideas, the creativity, the ability to switch context, the humor, reading the room, instant empathy - all are a function of how I rapidly process info and respond. The BIG problem is staying organized - for myself and for the team who rely on "steady", "timely", "consistent" - and these are hard for me. But awareness about them and leaning on the team and management to be understanding and supportive goes a very long way. Overall the strengths make it worth it - I'd recommend PMing as a career for folks with ADHD! Even better? Start your own company :)

[@thinktank8286]

Business Analyst here. So many of the same types of job tasks and functions. As if I'm a PM assistant. So much fear, stress, masking, trying to cope. Blame and fault culture. 1. Too many information/task inputs channels that need attention meetings, email, chat, docs, JIRA. 2. Digital file organization. 3. I'm just supposed to "get" everything. And if someone starts a chat, w/o context, oh boy is that a mess. 4. Digital vs Paper. 5. Capture of what is a To Do for me is tough. 6. Getting to an Agile definition of ready for every userstory is my sole responsibility. Thank you for the video. Hope you create more content for the PM/PO/BA group in the world. I should start a channel "The Agile ADHD Channel".😊

[@THATTALLCHICK25]

Recently Diagnosed with ADHD and I was so glad to find this video of someone in the same role. I struggle with organization and note-taking so finding little ways to make it easier for myself has been the one thing I'm focusing on. At a previous organization, my BA and I were in a constant battle with how we organized our backlog because it all looked like a jumbled mess to me if it wasn't in a certain way.

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for sharing, Mia! Glad you're finding solutions to help you.

[@jlee6754]

I recently found that I might have ADHD and it has been a challenge for me being a PM. I feel you when you said that it was a struggle following through projects until the end. Thank you for sharing your story, this is by far the most relevant and useful video about ADHD I've found.

[@bianca8434]

I resonate with you so much. Growing up, I’ve never had a problem with school and always managed to do all my tasks and be on top of everything. When I started working as a PM 2 years ago, I’ve struggled with focus, organization, overwhelming anxiety from all the tasks and yet still not knowing what to do, and depression from not feeling productive from everything I mentioned previously. I’ve never been diagnosed with ADHD but this gives me so much comfort knowing that other people are struggling with the same thing.

[@peterschindler3122]

I can't write, how much this relates to me. My most productive times are in a new environment: in the high speed train, at a coffeeshop, at a foreign office. It could be noisy, but it has to motivate me.

[@Carlosigranados]

I've been a police officer for over 5 years and I've struggled with organizing, prioritizing, and focusing during report writing. I'm barely being evaluated for ADHD. I've struggled in life with certain things, and I'm barely realizing I may have ADHD and have struggled with certain aspects in life. The possibility of having lived undiagnosed makes sense now on many things. Of how I've lived without any treatment and just trying to always push through.

[@372sweetie]

I relate to every point you made especially Jira and moving my work space around all the time! So refreshing to hear someone else has the same struggles.

[@Cremalab]

Ah, Jira! Such a hard tool to really get configured in a way that works for the team at large. I appreciate you sharing your relation to these struggles - and I'd love to hear any suggestions that you might have, that have helped you along the way. Thanks so much for reaching out - it means so much! - Alison

[@erinm6684]

I know this video is old, but I relate SO MUCH to this gal. Thank you for showing up authentically!

[@warrenthecurtis]

Finally a helpful video that matches my exact situation. I have a library of notebooks full of meeting notes 😂. ADHD + Product Management is an awesome combo. However, the right company/culture is critical. Thanks!

[@alishadawnelle1768]

This is the hard part. I somehow ended up in accounting as a consultant it’s added so much stress just by my pure disinterest

[@MsMary777]

I just found your video. It is so nice to meet you! I really liked how you are so down to earth and open about your life. I can relate, I remember years ago deciding to get a diagnosis for a job training opportunity through a program that helps individuals with disabilities. I was diagnosed by 2 different psychologists. Both came out with the same diagnosis, one using traditional old school testing and the other using modern testing technology. I was honestly so glad and relieved to finally know what my struggles were from. I eventually adopted ADHD as part of my identity which brought peace into my life. I also realized that my right/left brain were not getting along very well. My left brain was complaining that I was too lazy and my right brain was complaining that I was too uptight; well, something like that. But over the years the 2 sides of my brain (left and right) are working better together; no more complaining, seriously, our right brain should say: what can I do to help you today? Same for the left side. .. You should see all the provisions I have and do to keep going. It's like I have a set of luggage going to work. I recently ordered a pull cart for all my stuff. lol. it does sound funny but I have to have everything I need. And, believe it or not, I can be insanely organized at work and totally comfortably unorganized at home. Why, it's really because at home, all I think of is unwinding. I use a lot of energy at work. So on the way home words to me, home, relax rest. That kills all my energy. I can be at 80% energy at work and by the time I'm walking in the door, I am down to 20%. so it's really a matter of discission. For me, rest is important, I am very prone to sinus infections from sinus allergies, I have a bunch of sinus gadgets that help me to stay well, humidifier, HEPA filters, sinus rinse and good diet etc. but rest is essential. so it's like choosing a battle. which place needs me to be organized the most? I can't rest at work like I can at home. I work as an office assistant and I love my job! Maybe that's why I have so much energy at work. but there are good and not so good days. Some days I feel like a shining star and some days I'm not sure If I will have a job the next day. So this is so relatable to what you were talking about. I never openly told my boss about my ADHD and I had wondered if I should tell her, especially when things aren't going well, but then again, she probably suspects it. The thing about revealing ADHD is that you can't shake the feeling that they might think that you're incompetent, I think it goes deep within yourself. You're always wondering what anyone would think of you unless they know you well enough. I remember year ago I was volunteering with a group of people and I felt so proud of myself of how far I had come with ADHD. It was a volunteer group of people with disabilities. I proudly announced that I had ADHD and from that day for weeks, It felt like people didn't trust that I knew what I was doing. I mean really, I guess the stigma is real. Can you really know for sure if it's you or someone who might have some issues of their own. I thought I was going to write paragraph, but now it looks like a blog. lol. It's important to share. This would be my first blog on ADHD. I usually don't have the motivation to write a blog. Interestingly enough I admire people are motivated, organized, have fortitude and determination like my boss, I really admire her.

[@LosGrollos]

Absolute banger video, found it by pure coincidence. Finally a video which not just gives some general advice but actually on real life examples showcases the struggles and weird solutions in this situation. Absolutely can relate to almost all of the points, so was really interesting to hear what tools/tactics you came up with it. So thumbs up for this video, it will help a lot of people saying to themselves "wow, that sounds familiar" or "didnt tried that, sounds interesting.

[@leidenschaftfaul]

I've seen so many ADHD videos, but I haven't feel seen like that in a video like this so far. Thank you for sharing.

[@Cremalab]

Glad to hear that! Thank you for watching

[@hughiegamps]

Me too! I always change my desk twice or thrice every 4 or 5 months. It makes me feel more fresh and happy.

[@jkardi9803]

24:30 I just moved my desk yesterday for the 4th time in 6 months. one of the best tips I received was to put my desk sticking out into the room and if I felt stuck, go sit on the opposite side of it.

[@Cremalab]

That's a great tip! Thank you for sharing

[@Dragsted404]

The moving stuff around was such a hammer in the nail moment. Girl, you have no idea how many times I have skipped work just to start organise og sort things out before work Your video has really enlighten me in alot things. Being depressed and totally under stimulated in my late 20’s, I might copy of much of your early life Thank you for sharing your story 🌻

[@rickevans7941]

"I'm observing and feeling everything all at once..." YES. This is the crux of ADHD for me. Boon and bane; it's the source of our strengths like increased intelligence, yet simultaneously it's our greatest weaknesses and thief of our joy!

[@TRL123abc]

Great video! Bullet journalling is a great way to help with ADHD - visually organising my tasks, writing them out and repeating them each day (I’m a digital designer) it’s inspiring to me that you are a PM 👏🏻

[@jfaquinojr]

As a software engineer with undiagnosed adhd, bullet journaling also works for me after trying out so many note taking and journaling techniques I copied from neurotypicals. Adhd is harder for me as a software developer because we have to deal with so many small details in code that is easy to miss. My adhd brain happily discards details that are seem to be unnecessary thats why I dont rely on notetaking alone, I have to record our teams meeting so I can watch it again. Also, some parts of the code that are new to me doesnt click as fast for me as it does for my other team mates. It's so depressing at times thinking about how i am such a crappy developer. I love coding, i do it as a hobby, but at this point my self confidence is at the lowest.

[@haic83]

Preach! Thanks for sharing. I'm speculating the novelty of a new workplace is just enough stimulation to satisfy the novelty-seeking behavior often associated with ADHD & extraversion; with the newness of fresh scenery alleviating an inclination for novelty and allowing for better concentration on more familiar things. From someone on a relatively recent and parallel journey 😅👏

[@Cremalab]

Hai! It's so wonderful to hear from you! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and journey - we are on this road together! You are a total rock star, and I look forward to continuing to see all that you accomplish. Big hugs! - Alison

[@qkranarchist3015]

I never thot about moving work spaces but since I work from home now and in the woods, I have silence (finally!!!) and new places Insist all the time without realizing what I was doing or why.

[@phrebh]

In high school, I would move my bed back and forth between two different locations every few months. Everything else stayed in place. I think it was a good way to create a change in my space when I felt stagnant without having to go all out.

[@jonbrownlee4252]

Completely rearranging a room gives me so much energy!

[@talesofflowerism7348]

I just recently adopted the noise canceling headphones (with music or asmr) and writing down notes and tasks (work or personal ones) Just as I started feeling guilty about not using automations and organization tools (as a software engineer and PM) I stumbled on your video hhh. Impressive to see how we gravitate towards similar results that work for us.

[@joelpl]

I have the same feeling about changing my desk/setup from time to time. I guess it helps to inspire and motivates me. Going to coffee shops when I don’t have meetings is another tactic that I use (the background noise doesn’t bother me.. it’s like a background music)

[@outofthemudpodcast6542]

Thank you so much! I was a PM for a while (with undiagnosed ADHD) and it was soo hard. I loved all the creative aspects and working with people and having such a dynamic day but I really struggled with the more rigid aspects especially project timelines and being comfortable taking lead on things where I knew there would be no hand holding. One thing I’ve learned NOT to do is rely too much on programs and softwares to “fix” the problem. Sometimes I get hooked on trying new task management programs because of the novelty and I put all this effort into reorganizing, just to switch to something else a few months later. I don’t move my desk around but only because I don’t have a lot of space at home- but I know a lot of people who do that! I think it creates a sense of novelty/newness which helps you get more dopamine out of whatever you’re working on. Thanks again for making this video it was very healing for me to realize it’s okay that I struggled in that role and it wasn’t any failing of mine, just a learning experience.

[@julietteh-videos]

The environment change does make a big difference for me too. Even re-setting my desk (cleaning/adjusting the set up) will give some of that energy. Thank you for this video. I just finished my MA and want to be a project manager. Subbed!

[@ejclearwater]

On moving your workspace - Absolutely!!! I do this in the office and at home. I try to do a few hours at my desk, sitting, standing and then move to the couch and sometimes bed in the evenings. It helps me to create a different environment and it saves my back too! I don't change up my desk often enough though, I should try that! lol

[@sarahbaileymarketing]

Great content, and also a sigh of relief knowing others also struggle with focus, staying on task, overwhelm, etc in the same way I do. To comment on your last item.... moving your desk around.... YES! I totally get you on this. I do the same thing. I'm constantly changing locations in my home for work. I don't move my desk so much as I do to move "me". And it's the primary reason I work from a laptop. I use 3-4 monitors in my work and am fortunate enough to have different rooms in the house where I already have monitors in place, but I do tend to carry or move monitors around with me where I go. You were saying that you didn't know why this was the case for you, but maybe this would make sense: for me, I think the reason might be that a change in scenery helps me to be more creative and keep things fresh and new. I think with ADHD we tend to get bored pretty easily; it feels monotonous to go to the same location every single time, and I tend to also feel trapped if I'm stuck to one location, if that makes sense. But I'm going to go with the main reason being that a change of scenery helps to keep me more creative and interested in what's going on in front of me for work. Does that seem to be similar for you? Oh, and the other idea I love that you mentioned is something I do as well and that is to have a paper planner and also a notebook for taking notes. I do the same thing and it's much easier to keep things organized for me. Using apps and virtual reminders and to-do list has been a disaster for me. But writing things down on paper is much more helpful, and I know that there is science behind the physiology of using a pen to paper and using thousands of more muscles and neural connections than when you type it out on a keyboard. I've used Post-it notes a lot in the past but then they always seem to get lost ( but to be totally transparent, I don't always go back and look for the posted notes.) But when my reminders and to do are handwritten in a notebook, I can easily refer back to it. Side note: I picked up a spiral notebook hardcover on Amazon and it's called the "Chaos Coordinator" and it is a very simple way to keep the to-do list visible and easy to keep track of. Each line also has a little box that you can put a check mark in when you've completed the task. That way we can look at a glance and know what's done and what has not been done yet.

[@RyanHandby]

I have been absolutely struggling with everything you have mentioned in this video. Glad to hear that I am not alone as I was starting to think I was crazy. Most of the time when I look at PM tools I get overwhelmed and just see ants running all over the screen haha.

[@Cremalab]

You're definitely not alone!

[@dianamdooley]

I am so grateful to have found this video! Alison, the calm, thoughtful way you communicate made it possible for me to actually slow down enough to watch your whole video! And I resonated with EVERY point you made! Even the last one about moving your workspace around! I am contemplating getting a mobile work station like the nurses use in hospitals. They call them WOWs, btw, Workstation on Wheels! Lol! I am newly diagnosed and really struggling. (post-menopause, if you can believe it!) I had always been able to "cope" and had set up a lot of intuitive systems to stay on track, but life was ALWAYS SO HARD! My diagnosis was such a relief because now I understand why life was so hard, but menopause completely threw my life into chaos. I didn't know this at the time, but estrogen helps regulate executive function. So menopause elevated my ADHD symptoms to the point where my systems, routines, and work-arounds didn't work anymore. I sought medical assistance, started medication, and now I am trying to "re-learn" how to manage my professional and personal life all over again. I have a demanding corporate managerial position and seeing that you have managed to be successful in that type of role gives me hope. Thank you for sharing your story. I am truly inspired!

[@suziframe]

Diana, I am also post-menopausal and it all seemed to hit me in the last couple of weeks. In a new demanding managerial position and frustrated that I cannot always remember to finish tasks, and trying to focus, etc…I started noticing the symptoms of ADHD were exactly me! Heading to a dr next week. Alison - thank you for sharing this video!! I felt hope this evening where all I have felt previously was despair.

[@2350J]

Related to your writing tip 13:51, I am the same way, and this past year purchased an iPad to allow me to handwrite while still being able to access digital conveniences like searching, copy/paste, & sharing. Legit the best investment i’ve made for my brain in years Alison (& Crema team) I appreciate you for this video! 💜

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for sharing and watching, Remy!

[@fionajensen2952]

Omg! I could cry! Thank you for sharing these details about your life and how you manage! I no longer feel so alone!

[@kabilbenamor9183]

I am facing like 80% of what u mentioned and i was doubting myself or feeling overwhelmed. Thnx for letting me aware of those things.

[@kathryncainmadsen5850]

I am an educator and a writer and my experience is that Project Ms and elementary school teachers are SUPER judgemental of ADHD. If I ask again for an explanation of some process I was already told (but lost the email) you can hear the steam coming out of their ears. Hard to come out. It just sounds like an excuse. I want to scream that email threads are the WORST WAY TO WORK! But I can say, "Writers, am I right?' They don't laugh but I can tell they relax a little because somehow being a writer or artist is a better reason than ADHD. Hearing there are project managers with ADHD was a genuine surprise for me.

[@priyankasharma8647]

Wow! I never knew the reason for me being super organized at home or office to keep my anxiety in check. I can relate to being super excited about new things really quickly and then losing interest at the same pace. Your video has diagnosed ADHD for me. Thank you for the great tips!

[@Cremalab]

I am so glad to hear that others can resonate - It definitely helps to share how we're feeling and what we're going through. I definitely recommend staying mindful with how you're feeling, implementing tactics for your day-to-day that work best for you, and connecting with a trusted doctor along the way! Wishing you all the best of luck! - Alison

[@YourMajesty143]

I wouldn't rely on a video for a diagnosis. Please see a professional (either in person or online). Anxiety as a disorder does show symptoms of inability to focus and losing motivation/interest. In fact, anxiety disorders, depression, CPTSD, ODD, FASD, and other neurodivergent conditions often get confused with ADHD. All these disorders have many symptoms in common. It's important that you rule out which condition you actually have, so that you're not misdiagnosed. There are so many people, with the conditions that I listed, who wasted so many years taking the wrong meds for an ADHD condition they didn't even have. It wasn't until after failed attempts to correct their ADHD and going to different doctors, that they later discovered they were incorrectly diagnosed. Take anxiety meds and see if that corrects your symptoms. If it doesn't, then you can rule out the anxiety as a cause.

[@kiez_insider]

Love how you describe how you handle your tasks. As a person with ADHD it can be sometimes so hard... It's good to know that others find solutions for them, that work.

[@alysonturtle]

Recently diagnosed with ADHD and Omg, I can relate to all of your content. The desk situation made me smile because I do this when I feel overwhelmed & chaotic.

[@angelcahue1155]

Hello! I recently discovered that I have ADHD, and I completely identified with the last point, I love moving all my workspace every once in a while… actually I love big rooms because it gives me space to divide it into areas (watch tv area, reading area, writing area, etc.)

[@kathryncainmadsen5850]

I am going to learn some shorthand and get out my headphones. Thanks!! I think moving the desk is just a way to avoid boredom and i do it too. I move furniture every six months:)

[@Scrivs]

Moving the desk is all me. I love new locations for things. My wife laughs because I always want to redecorate things, but for some reason I always just want to change things to experience something different.

[@crystalvazquez5472]

OMGGG!!! The moving around your work space... I'm so mind blown!!! I have literally been moving (not necessarily my desk but my work space) around a lot at work!!! I always thought why?? Why do I feel the need for it and why it does help but I don't see any other coworkers needing todo the same?? Thanks for sharing your story.

[@mattea64]

Thank you so much for this video, Alison & Crema! I loved your tips, especially the one about moving your desk around! I frequently rearrange all furniture in my flat and while sadly I often struggle to finish that process and end up with piles of staff in random places all over my apartment, it does feel invigorating to do things with a new spatial perspective. Thanks for spreading the word about the struggles of ADHD folk in a professional environment and doing it in such a constructive and helpful way. Best wishes!

[@JazzTehHippy]

thanks so much Alison, this was really helpful - also, just hearing it made me feel a little less alone in my struggles, so I really appreciate it

[@nicholasdevlin4700]

As far as I know I don't have ADHD, but I totally empathize with the changing workspaces thing. I cannot stay in the same working environment for too long because I slowly pick up bad habits over time. Watching youtube videos, or wasting time in Slack, or zoning out, or whatever. Whenever I pick a new spot to work it like refreshes all those bad habits and it feels 'sacred' for a little bit. My role really worked well for this habit since I basically all my assignments were meetings, so I was always moving around and able to focus in the new environment. And my role was heavily travel based before the pandemic, so I was always working out of random offices or hotels or libraries, or working from home, so I could never stay anywhere long enough to pick up bad habits. Working from home every day, I haven't been able to compartmentalize as much, and my bad habits leech through the day so I spend more time than I should working, instead of 7 focused hours a day of work and then 9 of my personal life, it's like 8 hours of work spread across the 18 hours I spend awake.

[@Cremalab]

Hey Nicholas! Thanks so much for sharing your experience - I am so sorry that the shift to working from home has brought even more complexity with finding the right groove for work. I can empathize greatly - when I am not in back-to-back meetings, it's easy to find myself getting distracted with that free time (which in turn, doesn't help me later on). A suggestion that I've come across that might be good to give a try is "Calendar Blocking". Todoist has some good suggestions here that many of my co-workers utilize and have found to be helpful: todoist.com/productivity-methods/time-blocking. Let me know if you give it a try + what your thoughts are! - Alison

[@kopano_m]

I'm starting a new job tomorrow. And this video helped a great deal in minimising my anxiety about how my Adhd might play itself out in this new environment. Bringing my awareness to the things I already do to help myself cope in day to day life, ie. Writing everything down, asking loads of questions, doing things as they come up instead of putting things off, making everything super visually appealing, all of these things are tactics I've adopted to help me cope. And applying them in my new working environment is going to be helpful in reducing my stress. Thank you for this video.

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for sharing, Kopano. Good luck tomorrow!

[@amitaylor6052]

That is so interesting! I have moved my desk like 20 times since working from home. Glad to hear it's not just me 🙂

[@richardtriparton]

Thanks for so generously sharing your experience. Really connected with me also. I love changing location so much I actually have my whole home workstation on wheels so I can choose a different spot whenever I want to (while still having everything on hand). I kind of do the same at the office (I work in a lot of different places - which I really enjoy, so have a work bag with a few essentials so I can set up anywhere I need). I explain it to myself as, us ADHDers being quite stimulated by novelty - so having a different spot can help keep things fresh, and even sometimes have a spillover effect into other tasks. Thanks again for sharing!

[@delavidaebella]

I used to work at a startup as copywriter and everybody chat me for text input all day to the point that I couldn't even complete my own work. I felt so overwhelmed. Only lasted for a week there.

[@mikaeljacobsson1437]

When it comes to ADHD its really important that the neurotypicals around you adapts more to you than the other way around. Part of ADHD is that its really difficult to adapt to an neurotypical way of thinking. Its to limiting and to much inside the box thinking.

[@learntothrivewithadhd]

Thanks for sharing. Great video. I have clients and have had many consultation calls with people that are project managers, and they really struggle with all the moving parts, but people love them for the job. I'll refer your channel to my project manager clients.

[@kcluv123321]

I’m interviewing for my first Product Lead role and this gives me HOPE!

[@ChamaigneMontana]

Lol. I move my desk around too. Usually I have some reason like I think I'll be more comfortable or I'm implementing a new system where I need to sit across from whiteboards or something like that. I do it all the time. I love the feeling of creating the new organization and I have a feeling of fresh hope that I'm going to be more productive now. Plus it just helps me feel motivated to clean when I'm adding in something fun and creative like rearranging the space. So whenever I'm cleaning I just spontaneously start thinking of how the space could be better.

[@robelder9884]

I moved my engineering office into my art studio. When I feel stuck on a problem, I work on something physical while I process. The answer often comes while distracted... Or the infamous ah ha at 3:00 am.

[@TheHadi2008]

It was very nice to learn about your experiences. From your experience of changing the work space and taking hand written notes, I thought yes these can help me as well if I started doing that. But then I had this sadness crept on me when I thought wow I have the same urge to focus on everything that is happening around me but I have learned to ignore it at the time thinking it is something that only I do and that is not a normal thing. Now I miss so many beautiful things happening around me and I am constantly in my head or just numb instead of being present in that moment. These are the things that really make me not reach my potential and I feel frustrated and overwhelmed by.

[@sadhbheire]

Thank you for this content, it is super helpful. However, one of the things that I struggle A LOT and am still trying to come to terms with being a Project manager and having ADHD is that when the projects take forever to complete or stall and you have a few projects going on (and even if you hadn't), to keep motivated about finishing that never ending long project and keep coming back to it and revising it etc.. this is absolutely horrible for me... and I do get super excited about the new project, but the fact that i am only now being diagnosed with ADHD and have been ploughing through being a project manager for the last 4 years... the excitement is a bit gone, as I know I will eventually go into that stage of dread for the projects that linger... It makes me think if this job is really for me.. even though I do get all things done and for OTHERS see me as a good PM, but in my head I just feel like I am failing... Again, this has to do with only now being diagnosed and having now many years of self-doubt and working 3 times harder to keep going and being exhausted to keep up for lack of motivation... how do you organise yourself to keep motivated when you have these stale projects that you cannot just drop...? anyone please share! :) Thank you!

[@melchol2121]

thank you for this video! I could relate to all of it- especially needing to move your workspace. I have to move from the living room, dining room and my bedroom whenever I need a different environment. It feels like a quick reset button and windows are imperative! I couldn't explain it at first I'm so glad you brought this up

[@colleengrippin6115]

Because I’m extremely visual, one thing I do that helps my ADHD is when I’m taking notes, to kinda “arrange” them visually on the page, like in a flow chart, outline or similar pattern and not to add too many notes on the page. This way, I don’t see a cluttered, messy paper and get overwhelmed and end up not doing anything on the paper.

[@reneemilevoj601]

I move my workspace around too. I have two computers and a laptop. I have an office but sometimes I just can’t go in there because it just feels like it’s going to be boring or something. Like I literally can’t get started there sometimes so I have to work from my bedroom or the kitchen.

[@kaylashawsd]

Moving the desk helps keep the brain present. Similar to taking a different way to the grocery store. It makes it so you don't start thinking about something else...as much ;)

[@emmamrofchak2159]

Thank you so much! I relate to so many of your points and I think there are a ton of tips and tricks that I will try out to see if they help. I wanted to say I’m totallyyy with you with changing up the scenery all the time. I move my furniture around all the time.

[@THYT77]

This was so helpful. Thank you, Alison.

[@dokMixer]

Somewhat overwhelmed PM here too. Not sure if I have ADHD but I believe I'm might lie somewhere on the spectrum Thanks for sharing those tips, know that some of them are helpful to me. I'm sure it will also help other folks out there. Cheers!

[@allyfrasier6306]

This was really wonderful 🌞 I've not seen any of your other video's yet, but I'm curious about how you manage ADHD in terms of medications, supplements, physical activity etc? I do the same with moving my work space and also home space..Also, I need to see things visually. I have a wardrobe with everything but underwear hanging, so I can visually remember that I have it and could wear it! This is the same for all spaces, so I'm also really mindful about not having too much. While I like to see what I have, and it helps me to enjoy and use it, if it's getting too busy and cluttered with options then I get completely overwhelmed by choice. Then I procrastinate until the absolute LAST possible moment before making a decision. I find the selection process challenging for some reason but visually I enjoy and appreciate seeing my options. Anything placed behind doors will be forgotten and discovered randomly. Also, I have personally adjusted behaviour as you've described. For example, I have a set of labelled drawers on wheels, and a hanging closet with family member sections, on wheels. When I do the family laundry, I sort, fold or hang, and place in the relevant section for that family member immediately. Then I wheel it to the various rooms and it's ready, task completed. Also, I'm curious if this is ADHD related or just personal, I find I'm far more alert and generally most productive from around 2pm. It's not great because it doesn't suit my current demands. I feel like I'm really getting into it when everyone else wants to have an afternoon nap! I have to write things down also. Can you please describe how you manage this? I prefer not to carry a huge heavy notebook with those tabs to identify different topics, I've not managed to find smaller. I need to be able to identify topic content/ person I am meeting with etc when using the one notebook. I really prefer using just 1 notebook though, not 1 for each topic/ manager I'm meeting with, because I have tried to do so and frequently found myself in impromptu meetings without the appropriate notebook, or alternatively, rushed and not thought to grab the specific notebook relevant to that person. Just curious if you have a good system for this? Thanks, I enjoyed your video. 👌🌞

[@KennethTrueman]

Thanks for sharing your story, Alison. I learned a lot and recognized my experiences in yours.

[@jeffcarter2566]

Thank you for sharing. Yes, LOL I move my desk around often. 53 -diagnosed 2 years ago when I saw someone about stress. Now trying to figure it all out. I’m a Director and PM for a Fortune 500 Company - in over my head with this ADHD. Would love to network and share and collaborate. Your video was very helpful, thank you.

[@thequeenbee82]

PM here as well, just about everything you said I align with, nice to know I'm not alone, same tips, marking things unread, slack is a major distraction. The upcoming week I'm going to test out not looking at my slack and less it's every 60 minutes 🫣 probably more like 30 minutes but, I'm noticing I do better with timers to stay focused for that period of time

[@mariah4197]

Glad I found this video! Since I got into college, I can’t seem to focus or retain anything. And then since the pandemic hit and I have to work in the same room as my husband, it has been brutal. I bought a sit-sat desk with caster wheels made me happy because I constantly change my desk like weekly. Like I can’t work, if there’s something on my desk that I’m itching to change. As for note-taking, I don’t think Notion or any digital note-taking helped but working in a tech company, I need to take notes digitally bec I type faster than I write. For noise-cancelling headphones, my husband bought it as a gift. Because I’ve been feeling crazy bec he likes to play music or loud games and sounds coming from everywhere drives me crazy. Since having an NC headphones, I am able to mute everything and focus on what I want to listen to. For task-switching, I’m not sure I suck at this. And it’s hard since I have multiple projects and at times I have to do project management which I dread a lot.

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for sharing, Maria! We all have had to find some creative ways to get through it all. The example of the desk on caster wheels is awesome!

[@alejandroromero4405]

I first found out I had adhd a yr after high school (I’m pretty smart if I put some effort if not I can still make better grades than the rest) but my first semester in college made me realized something was wrong with me after I couldn’t remember what was said during long lectures (1.5hr classes) but I swear I was there in lecture, looking, listening and writing but my mind was on “what am I going to do after this class, how’s my schedule looking like, etc”. It was horrible and still is lol. I have meds but doesn’t really matter if I didn’t know how to work/study. I just try to mimic type A ppl. But I’m just too messy or going w the flow but I just can’t simply organize my own schedule/life. I don’t even know how I did grad and undergrad, i literally just tried to be good but not the best just bc life was easy at that moment. After a year at a Big4 I can’t even try to study for the CPA 🙃

[@lism8413]

I move my workspace all of the time haha! I just want to say how amazing and inspiring you are to listen to. You are clearly so gifted and have worked hard at figuring out how to make your ADHD a superpower, while remaining humble and open about the difficulties you have too. I was diagnosed this year at 44 with ADHD combined the and Dyslexia and also work in a corporate environment. Oh my lord it is hard! I’m trying to spread awareness & reduce stigma, but it can be difficult for others to understand and I constantly feel. I haven’t had a look to see if you have more ADHD videos, but I hope so, as you really are inspiring and I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that you could make a huge difference in many peoples lives. I wish you all the happiness and success for you future ☺️🙏🏼

[@fmorejon9915]

Thank you so much, I didn't knew I shared this with other people

[@benmomentum]

Thank you for your work! It helps me listening to drum n bass and nerofunk or classical music during work… it’s important that there is now lyrics involved, because I would start singing to it 😂

[@onionwarrior7447]

This isn't intended to be mean at all but would you consider putting timestamps on the video? I watched this because I'm in a similar position (need to project management with ADHD) but it was too dragging for me and I had to come back multiple times for several days LMAO even though you make very good points and have some pretty great tips. Timestamps just help to organize the video and break it to smaller manageable chunks so it feels like we're watching several smaller vids compared to one big half hour one. I think you understand where I'm coming from haha but other than that, great video!

[@Cremalab]

Yes, we'll include timestamps! Thank you for your suggestion!

[@kelliehamren6098]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I am taking some of your tips into my daily work routine.

[@steakbeard]

Thanks for sharing. So many KZbin ideas

[@skyhighperceptions4632]

Hello, I fill my day with bunch of projects and I can multitask very well, is my ADHD POWER! Then again I have the lows when I have nothing to do and makes me feel like I am not doing enough. Noise when I'm reading huuuge distraction, I could drive from point A to point B without really having to focus much on the road is like I divide my brain to do that like breathing, is like having a computer processor with 12 mini processors inside, I can learn super fast, probably faster than any genius BUT!, I need to love what I am doing. If I don't care for it it won't stick. In school elementary, middle school I was a math nightmare, wouldn't learn it then suddenly I figure what I could use the math for, money. Then I attached the making money, count it add it divide it etc. So when I need to learn something I really need to learn I attach something I really like to it, and wha laaa! I constantly listen to audio books, learning new things, I could learn anything I want and then teach it to a monkey. All the unfinished projects tho... sigh... they are on the back of my head calling me... finish meee. Now we figure my oldest daughter is also ADHD and I am trying to get her to learn to use her focus the way I do. Everyone wants to put her on meds due to her small outburst, but I refuse. She is brilliant!!! I'm looking into nootropics to see maybe that will help but still....

[@crystalstannard7600]

I swear you are my soul sister all of these are amazing and I struggle with all of these as a project manager and strategist

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for sharing, Crystal! Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@commonmadeholy]

What a wonderful video - thank you for sharing! 😊

[@HomeSweetHearth]

So so helpful! Thank you so much for these tips. I related a lot to the visual cues and creating little systems. It’s funny how many things you do without even realizing it. I didn’t find out about my ADHD until I was 25 years old, and somehow figured out a way to get straight A’s and even became a tutor. There are some amazing things but many challenges. This video was so approachable - thank you for sharing!

[@xilvia]

The new setup, yes! It’s weird, and I thought it had nothing to do with that. I just recently moved to a new apartment with a built-in desk in my walk-in closet area. Very frustrating, sometimes I have to move to my living room to give me a change of scenery

[@lonlinessman6621]

oh my gosh! i feel you when u in undiagnosed condition.. thank's for the video btw

[@K3zz21]

Helpful stuff! Also your overall demeanor and voice are super calming to listen too!

[@Cremalab]

Thank you for the feedback! (:

[@Kellythelawyer]

I frequently have to move my desk and office around to change up things that I can focus better. It’s strange as always and trying to find the perfect set up but no set up is ever perfect long-term.

[@ellenruths]

You're leaning into your motor memory with handwriting. For some folks that's a huge deal.

[@discipulaaeterna4389]

OMG moving my desk is really helpful indeed! I prefer to move to a new apartment as well :D

[@banana-dw3ez]

How do you deal with ever changing priorities? I work in a very fast moving space and never being ahead of the new highest priority is a struggle

[@millerboys3g]

I enjoyed your sincerity and candor. JIRA is my arch nemesis at work.. especially when there isn’t an admin team aware of its capabilities. Do you have any tips on organizing tickets in JIRA when your tickets are across multiple projects? I’ve been trying to figure out how to see all tickets on one screen (with their description and latest comment)- but that seems to be impossible :(

[@lisalisa0105]

Since working from home I have change my work space within my home, pretty much every room except the bathroom lol yep even the hall way😂 I’m not sure if it helped me but it’s necessary.