Living with ADHD means we’re constantly navigating brains that don’t exactly want to play by the same rules as typical productivity gurus. Time moves weirdly, objects disappear, and motivation can trike at 2 in the morning…if it strikes at all. While I’m learning to work with my brain (rather than against it), I still rely on a few key ADHD productivity tools to make my days go a little more smoothly.
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Apple Watch
Having a subtle, wearable cue for reminders, timers, and movement is one of the most intuitive ADHD productivity tools in my arsenal. I use is it keep myself on track with meds (Guava Health), hydration (Water Llama), time blocks (Reminders), and even reminders to rest. It’s also perfect for a bit of time awareness without having to pick up my phone and get distracted.
Apple Watch
Time Timer
Speaking of time awareness…Time Timer is a classic ADHD tool for a reason! There’s something so helpful about seeing time visually disappear. Whether I’m doing a 20-minute Pomodoro-style work sprint or trying to limit a task I don’t have time to focus on, my Time Timer gives me just enough structure to stay grounded. There’s even an app version for on-the-go!
Time Timer
Rocketbook
Rocketbook reusable notebooks are staples in my routine! The Core is super versatile with classic lined paper while the Everyday Planner offers more structured layouts. Both let you wipe it all clean when your brain needs a reset! With its reusability, Rocketbooks are easily one of the most eco-friendly ADHD productivity tools on this list.
Rocketbook
Planners
I’m slowly but surely learning that one planner alone can’t always do it all. Right now, I rotate between a few different options—digital planning in Notion or Goodnotes when I need flexibility (check HappyDownlaods for digital planners, stickers, and more!), more structured planners for long-term goal setting, and even just pencil and paper when I need to keep things simple.
HappyDownloads
Grammarly
Writing with ADHD means my thoughts often move faster than my fingers can. Grammarly helps catch my typos and missed words across blog post drafts, email newsletters, social media captions, and so much more when brain fog feels heavy.
Grammarly
Notion
Notion is where all the chaos goes to get a little more organized. I use it for content planning, health tracking, hobbies, and so much more! It works beautifully with my ADHD because I can build pages that mirror the way my brain works, whether that’s collapsible checklists, visual databases, or just plain “catch-all” areas for when I don’t know where to start.
Notion
Spotify
ADHD and silence don’t always mix, but lyrics can be distracting too. I have a few go-to Spotify playlists for different moods, but the platform offers plenty of ready-to-go playlists specifically for focus.
Spotify
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
My Bose QuietComfort noise-cancelling headphones are hands-down a sensory lifesaver. From working in a cafe to blocking out background sounds at home, headphones like these can help reduce overwhelm and boost focus. Pair them with ambient playlists or body doubling videos for an added boost—or just keep them over your ears for a bit of quiet.
Bose QuietComfort
Body Doubling Videos
Even virtually, working with someone can be the key to getting things done. There are some incredible creators on YouTube and elsewhere who post real-time study/work-with-me sessions that feel like coworking with a friend. If I really can’t find the motivation to focus on my own, I queue one up and let that energy carry me through.
Goblin Tools
This suite of ADHD productivity tools is basically magic. The ToDo tool lets you input a task, no matter how vague or overwhelming it may be, and it breaks it down into manageable steps. It’s kinda like an executive function translator! There’s also an Estimate tool to help gauge how long something might take, a Formalizer to turn a rambly draft into something more polished, and more neurodivergent-friendly tools built for brains like ours.
Goblin Tools
Fidget Toys
Visit me in person and you’d find a few fidgets on my desk, in my bag, near my bed…basically everywhere. They help me self-regulate when I’m overstimulated, anxious, or just need something to do while I think.
Blog Post: The Best Fidgets in My Collection
AIL Tools
While I love discovering new ADHD productivity tools, I also create resources for our neurodivergent and chronically ill communities! These are made to be gentle, supportive, and sensory-friendly to honor your capacity, whatever that might be at the moment.
ADHD Affirmation Cards
These printable cards are great for your desk, journal, or even tucked in your wallet for a daily reminder that your brain isn’t broken.
ADHD Affirmation Cards
Neurodivergent and Sensory Toolkit Pouches
Use our AIL accessory pouches to DIY your own kit for on-the-go regulation! I keep a pouch in my tote with essentials like chewable jewelry and other fidgets, whether I’m going to a medical appointment or just running errands.
Sensory Coping Cards
Each of these 52 cards includes a strategy to help soothe the senses. They’re ready to help you through brain fog, overstimulation, emotional overload, or other tough moments.
Sensory Coping Cards
Vision Boards
Sometimes we need a visual reminder of why we’re doing all the hard things we do. I use our digital and printable vision board tools to reconnect with my goals, especially on slump days where motivation is simply nowhere to be found.
Of course, no ADHD productivity tools can magically “fix” executive dysfunction or make routines stick, but the right tools can make daily life feel a little more joyful along the day! Some days, that means setting a timer and brain-dumping, others it’s putting on a playlist, petting my self-care “birb,” and knowing that that’s good enough.
Have you tried any of these? Are there other tools that make your ADHD life easier? I’d love to hear—leave a comment below or connect with us on social media @AnIdealLifeBlog!
