In this interview, Stephanie Scheller, founder and CEO of Grow Disrupt, shares her insights on time management for ADHD entrepreneurs. While Stephanie is not a self-professed “time management expert”, her experience in running successful businesses and effectively managing her own time has provided her with valuable strategies. She highlights three time management hacks that have made a significant impact on her productivity. Let's dive into these time management habits that can benefit ADHD entrepreneurs.
Habit 1: Time Blocking - Building the Foundation
Stephanie's first time management hack is time blocking. She acknowledges that some may have reservations or believe that time blocking doesn't work, but she firmly believes that it's a powerful tool that requires practice to master. Stephanie suggests starting with a "success schedule," a carefully laid-out agenda that represents an ideal week. While the perfect week may not align with reality, having a structured schedule allows entrepreneurs to gain control over their calendars. By allocating specific time slots for personal growth, sales, team management, marketing, and fulfillment, entrepreneurs can ensure that each aspect of their business receives dedicated attention.
Habit 2: The Pomodoro Technique - Harnessing Focus
When time management begins to slip and work hours extend, Stephanie turns to the Pomodoro technique. This technique involves setting a timer for a relatively short period, typically 25 minutes, and focusing on one task during that time. After the timer goes off, a short break is taken. Stephanie finds this technique particularly effective for building the muscle of time blocking. It's easier to inform others that she is entering a Pomodoro block, indicating her unavailability for the next 15 or 20 minutes, rather than blocking out a larger chunk of time. Moreover, the Pomodoro technique enables entrepreneurs to start small and gradually build their focus and time blocking skills.
Customizing the Pomodoro Technique
Stephanie understands that customization is key to making time management techniques work for individual preferences and needs. She shares some variations of the Pomodoro technique that she finds helpful. One such variation is setting a five-minute timer to lay out a project plan and taking a 20% break afterward. By breaking the task into smaller sprints, entrepreneurs can stay focused and maintain peak performance. Stephanie also suggests setting a timer for specific tasks or projects and committing to not returning to them for the rest of the day. This variation works well for activities like sales follow-ups, ensuring focused attention without distractions.
Habit 3: The Baseline Strategy - Achieving Consistent Results
The third time management habit Stephanie recommends for ADHD entrepreneurs is the baseline strategy. This strategy involves recognizing that achieving results is based on a baseline of daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly activities. By establishing recurring activities and incorporating them into a "success schedule,” entrepreneurs can ensure consistent progress. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of regular check-ins to evaluate if these activities are being completed. If certain tasks consistently remain undone, entrepreneurs may need to reassess their priorities or consider outsourcing them. The baseline strategy is a powerful tool when used in conjunction with time blocking and the Pomodoro technique.
Embracing Continuous Growth
Stephanie acknowledges that time management requires ongoing effort and adjustment. Finding a balance between structure and flexibility is essential for entrepreneurs with ADHD. It's crucial to adapt time management strategies to individual needs and preferences. Stephanie encourages entrepreneurs to be patient with themselves and seek guidance from coaches if needed. By implementing these time management habits, entrepreneurs can enhance productivity, reduce work hours, and achieve greater success in their businesses.
The Wrap
Stephanie Scheller's three time management habits – time blocking, the Pomodoro technique, and the baseline strategy – provide valuable guidance for ADHD entrepreneurs. These habits offer structure, focus, and consistency in managing time effectively. With practice and customization, entrepreneurs can harness their strengths and optimize their productivity. Stephanie's own journey serves as a testament to the positive impact these habits can have on an entrepreneur's success. Remember, every entrepreneur's starting point is different, but momentum builds with perseverance and dedication. Embrace these time management habits and unlock your full potential in business and beyond.
If you're interested in learning more about time management and strategies for maximizing your business's potential, Grow Disrupt offers resources and support tailored for ADHD entrepreneurs. Start your journey toward improved time management and experience the transformation it can bring to your entrepreneurial endeavors!