ADHD and staying focused on the grind.
How do I keep myself motivated and focused on studying when I have ADHD?
First Coffee! Caffeine helps me.
Then I listen to Medical Music parodies on Youtube. Today is Blank Script parody of Taylor Swift "Blank Space" by ZDoggMD.com. It is linked bellow.
(It reminds me of why I’m doing this, to begin with. This particular song reminds me of a client I had that died from Opiate dependency when I was working as a Patient Navigator. Plus it’s catchy)
Then I make a to-do list, so I have something to focus on in smaller manageable steps. Ie. I have an exam Friday in Microbiology Lecture.
Today I will cover chapter 3 of the power point. Use the book as a reference for these slides. Also, my professor gave the class a list of 13 bacteria she wants us to know. So, I will cover 5 of those 13.
In addition, I’ve previously made Quizlet quizzes for terms I was having difficulty with. ( You may be able to find premade quizzes by other people that cover the material you need) It also helps me to study the bacteria list while on the train or out going to appointments. This helps me be able to cover material when I’m not at home.
I found if I have a hard time focusing while sitting down studying from slides if I change up the mode of studying it helps. So, I will switch to a Quizlet test or use the website that goes with the book. They have summary reviews, tests, flashcards, etc.
Also, I found sometimes, I just can’t focus. If I take a break and do something fun. Play a game for 30 minutes or so. Then I am able to refocus and get to the grind. I found trying to force it just doesn’t work and brings more stress.
They say surroundings is important. Yes, this is true however, I don’t always sit at my desk. Sometimes I just can’t focus. It’s too quiet. I actually find it easier to focus in bed later at night. I get more done. During the day I play Youtube study music on low so that it plays in the background. Low enough so that I don’t really notice it. The one I have been using is linked bellow.
There are others with changing scenery but I find that can be distracting.
If you have anything that works for you, share it. I’m always looking for new ways to focus.