Setting goals as a business owner can be challenging enough, but adding ADHD into the mix can make it feel overwhelming. However, with the right strategies, you can turn your ADHD into a superpower that helps you set and achieve your business goals effectively. Let’s explore how to and how NOT to set goals if your mind works a little different than others.
How NOT to Set Goals as an ADHD Business Owner
Setting goals using neurotypical advice often does not work well for ADHD minds and can even be counterproductive. One common mistake is setting overly ambitious and broad goals without breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Neurotypical advice often suggests long-term planning and focusing on end results, which can feel overwhelming and demotivating for someone with ADHD. Additionally, traditional productivity tips like maintaining a rigid schedule or using extensive to-do lists can lead to frustration and burnout. ADHD brains thrive on novelty, interest, and urgency; thus, methods that don’t incorporate these elements can lead to procrastination and a sense of failure. Instead of trying to adhere to these conventional strategies, it’s essential to use goal-setting frameworks that cater to the unique needs of the ADHD mind, such as the SMART+1 approach, which includes interest-based and strength-based goals.
How to set goals: SMART+1 Goal Setting Method
Why is setting clear goals crucial for staying focused and motivated?
As an ADHD business owner, you may often find your mind racing with a million ideas, tasks, and distractions. Setting clear, actionable goals helps cut through the noise and provides a structured path forward. The SMART+1 goals framework ensures that your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, with an extra twist tailored for ADHDers to make the process more engaging and achievable.
The How: Steps to Implement SMART+1 Goals
S for Specific
Ensure the goal is clear and specific, avoiding any ambiguity.
Having specific goals provides clarity and a clear direction, making it easier to know exactly what you need to do next.
M for Measurable
Define criteria for measuring progress and success.
Measurable goals allow you to track your progress and celebrate small wins, which is crucial for maintaining motivation.
A for Achievable
Set a realistic goal that is attainable given the resources and constraints. Do not overcommit, as it leads to burnout.
Setting achievable goals prevents burnout and keeps you motivated by ensuring that your goals are within reach.
R for Relevant
Ensure the goal aligns with broader life or business objectives.
Relevant goals ensure that you are working towards something meaningful, which enhances motivation and commitment.
T for Time-bound with a Tweak
Set a deadline to create a sense of urgency and commitment. For ADHDers, this must be turned into a challenge.
Time-bound goals create urgency, but turning them into a challenge makes them more engaging and fun, which is especially effective for ADHDers.
+1 for Me-Fit
Discuss if the specific goals and tasks align with your motivation. Use interest-based and strength-based goal setting.
Ensuring that goals align with your interests and strengths increases the likelihood of engagement and success.
The What: Activity
Goal Setting Activity
1.Identify your top three business goals. (Day 2 will help you prioritize them)
2.Break down each goal into smaller, manageable tasks.
Creating a Vision Board
1.Gather materials (magazines, images, digital tools like Canva, etc.).
2.Assemble your vision board.
Conclusion
Setting goals as an ADHD business owner doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the SMART+1 framework, you can create clear, actionable, and motivating goals that align with your strengths and interests. Start today by identifying your top three business goals, breaking them down into manageable tasks, and creating a vision board to keep you inspired and focused.
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