ADHD and Budgeting
ADHD and ME
This blog is a little more personal because I have been recently diagnosed with ADHD, and I researched more about its impact on my life. I realised that I had created a Planner that was ADHD-proof. Some feedback I was given was Can I please always keep it simple. Although these tips are tips I have always given because they have genuinely worked for me. And I know they work for my neurotypical customers, especially those going through a period of overwhelm. These are, however, tips that have come from a neurodiverse brain.
I don't feel comfortable sharing the doctor who has referred me at this time.
ADHD and Finances
Managing finances can be challenging for individuals with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) due to organisation, impulse control, and attention difficulties. However, with some strategies and tools, it's possible to improve budgeting skills and create a more stable financial situation. Here are some tips for individuals with ADHD when it comes to budgeting:
- Simplify the budgeting process: Break down the budget into small, manageable steps. Avoid overwhelming yourself with complex spreadsheets or detailed tracking systems. Start with a basic budgeting template that shows a clear overview of your income, expenses, and savings goals. Please keep it simple.
- Use reminders and alerts: Set up reminders and notifications to help you stay on top of your financial responsibilities. Do this as soon as possible as that bill arrives; make sure you have set a reminder a week before it is due. Use alarms, calendar alerts, or smartphone apps to remind you of bill due dates, payment deadlines, and budgeting sessions.
- Automate bill payments: Take advantage of automatic payments for recurring bills, such as rent, utilities, and subscriptions. This reduces the risk of missing due dates and incurring late fees.
- Separate savings from spending: Open a different savings account. For example, have an account that pays bills. Automate your mortgage repayments to suit your pay structure and automate regular transfers from your accounts. This helps create a habit of saving and reduces the temptation to spend money earmarked for savings.
- Visualise your financial goals: ADHD individuals often respond well to visual cues. Create visual reminders of your financial goals, such as a vision board or a graph illustrating progress towards a specific savings target, Such as the vision board at the front of the lanner and the debt payoff and saving trackers at the back. This can motivate you to stick to your budget and make better financial decisions.
- Minimise distractions: Find a quiet and organised space when working on your budget. Minimise distractions by turning off notifications on your devices and closing unnecessary tabs or apps.
- Break tasks into smaller chunks: Instead of overwhelming yourself with a lengthy budgeting session, break the process into smaller, more manageable tasks. Allocate short periods of focused attention to specific budgeting tasks, such as categorising expenses or reviewing your spending.
- Know your triggers and remove or come up with a solution every step of the way to combat this. One tool that helps to keep you on budget and suppresses the urge to spend whilst still giving you that dopamine kick is our Cash Envelope products
- Seek support: If you're struggling to manage your finances effectively, consider seeking help from a financial planner, therapist, or support group specialising in ADHD. They can provide guidance, accountability, and strategies tailored to your needs.
Remember, managing finances with ADHD may require trial and error to find the best strategies for you. Stay patient, persistent, and don't hesitate to seek help. I have found alot of help an awareness here, https://www.additudemag.com/ , https://adhdireland.ie/ and https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoADHD
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