February 2023

ADHD Organization for the rest of us! ADHD Organization  might sound like two contradictory terms, but for entrepreneurs with ADHD, they are two sides of the same coin. ADHD entrepreneurs are known for their innovation, creativity, and risk-taking. Still, they often struggle with maintaining focus, staying on task, and keeping track of details.  For instance, I was the type who worked in constant chaos. Projects were strewn all over my desk, and my computer desktop had more icons than on Hollywood Blvd. When I was a child, my mother used to have to tell me to clean my room more than Ollie reminded Stanley of another fine mess Stanley had gotten him into! Nothing really wrong with that, but it was a drag on my production, and I wanted to get in focus and skyrocket my productivity so I worked on my ADHD Organization!   So, how can ADHD entrepreneurs organize themselves and their businesses without losing their spark? Here are some clever tips: 1. The Post-it Note Method: a great way for ADHD entrepreneurs to remember essential tasks is to write them down on a Post-it note and stick them on their forehead. That way, they can see them all the time and will remember what they need to do. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter! 2. The Color Code Method: ADHD entrepreneurs can color code to organize their work and their lives. For example, they can assign a different color to each project and then use those colors to label everything from folders to socks. That way, they’ll always know what they’re working on and have a rainbow of fun to look at! 3. The Music Method: ADHD entrepreneurs can use music to help them focus on their work. They can create playlists of heavy metal, punk rock, or even Surf Rock; chaotic music allows me to concentrate. I love to sing along to the Ramones or The Clash (More on the Power of Punk in an upcoming blog). I love to sing along while I work! Helps me to concentrate as I work. Just make sure the headphones are on so no one else is distracted by your musical talents! 4. The Pomodoro Method: The Pomodoro Method is a time management technique that involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a five-minute break. ADHD entrepreneurs can use this method to stay focused and avoid burnout. They can set a timer, work on a project for 25 minutes and then take a break to do something fun, like playing with their pet. 5. The Clutter Method: Some ADHD entrepreneurs work best in chaos. They thrive in messy environments and can find what they need in the midst of clutter. My father was a successful businessman; his office had more clutter than Planters has peanuts. So, if you’re an ADHD entrepreneur who can’t seem to keep your workspace clean, embrace the clutter and own it. Just make sure you don’t lose anything important in the process! So, if you are an ADHD entrepreneur, you don’t have to sacrifice your creativity and spontaneity for the sake of ADHD Organization! They can use these humorous methods to stay focused, productive, and true to their unique selves. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for ADHD organization. So, try different strategies, find what works for you, and remember to have fun along the way! So, how can you learn ADHD Organization? The answer is to call Dr. Get in Focus; he can show you! To set up your free appointment, click here on the link!  https://calendly.com/dr_work_from_home/get-in-focus-vip-session-clone Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to get in focus and skyrocket their productivity. He is here to talk to see if he can help. His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs. Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/ for the latest workshop. Don’t wait; get in focus today!

ADHD Entrepreneurs and Locus of Control As I am sure you are aware, I am an entrepreneur with ADHD. If you are reading this, I imagine you are too. Hence, you’re no stranger to the unique challenges of running a business while managing the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can make ADHD your superpower and be a highly successful entrepreneur. One necessary mindset to develop is a balance between internal and external locus of control. As an ADHD entrepreneur, you might have a strong drive to take absolute control of your outcomes and rely on your abilities and decisions. This sounds great to your internal control freak. However, let’s face it, there are external; factors, and recognizing the impact and the value of collaboration can also be critical to achieving your goals. Locus of control is the term that refers to an individual’s belief about whether they can influence the events and outcomes in their life or if they are at the mercy of external factors such as luck or fate. It is a continuum ranging from internal to external control, where individuals with a more robust internal locus of control believe they can control their destinies. In contrast, those with a more vital external locus of control believe that their fate is mainly determined by external factors. Internal Locus of Control Individuals with a strong internal locus of control believe that their actions and decisions are the primary determinants of the outcomes in their lives. They take responsibility for their successes and failures and think they can change their circumstances through their own efforts. They are proactive in their approach to life and tend to have higher self-esteem and better coping skills. Essentially, they believe they are the masters of their domain, kings of their country, and Lords of their Manor!   External Locus of Control Individuals with a strong external locus of control believe that external factors such as luck, fate, other people’s actions, or their lucky stars largely determine the outcomes in their lives.   They may feel powerless to change their circumstances and may be more likely to experience feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. They may also be more prone to anxiety and depression as they feel that their actions are unlikely to impact the outcome of events. Here are some tips for balancing locus of control as an ADHD entrepreneur: Comprehend what you can control: While many factors may be outside your control as an entrepreneur, you can still take actions to influence outcomes. Focus on what you can control, such as your productivity and decision-making, and take proactive steps to maximize your success in these areas. Note one thing you cannot control is the neurology of your brain. More on that later Find the Flexibility: As an ADHD entrepreneur, you may be accustomed to being creative and adaptable in your approach to challenges. Embrace this flexibility and openness to change, recognizing that external factors may require you to pivot or adjust your plans. Celebrate Collaboration: While you may be used to working independently as an ADHD entrepreneur, collaborating with others can be a powerful way to achieve your goals. Seek out partners and advisors who complement your skills and can provide new perspectives and expertise. Outrageous Optimism: Positivity and belief in your own success can be critical to achieving your goals as an ADHD entrepreneur. Rather than being discouraged by setbacks or challenges, use them as opportunities to learn and grow. Rehash a Routine: As an ADHD entrepreneur, a lack of structure and routine can significantly hinder productivity and success. Develop a daily routine that works for your unique needs and helps you stay focused and organized. Of course, one thing that is totally outside of your control is your ADHD itself. ADHD has to do with your neurology, which you have no power over, no matter how frustrated it makes you. Your spouse can’t change it, your boss can’t change your clients can’t change it… and neither do the Democrats or the Republicans! The only way to be responsible for the condition is to realize that you have no control over ADHD and then take actions that enable you to skyrocket your life anyway! By the right balance (for you) of internal and external locus of control, embracing your unique ADHD traits, and taking proactive steps to maximize your success, you can achieve your goals as an ADHD entrepreneur. With the right mindset and strategies, ADHD can be a strength rather than a hindrance in your entrepreneurial journey. So, how can you learn to utilize AI and ADHD? The answer is to call Dr. Get in Focus; he can show you! To set up your free appointment, click here on the link!  https://calendly.com/dr_work_from_home/get-in-focus-vip-session-clone Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to get in focus and skyrocket their productivity. He is here to talk to see if he can help. His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs. Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/ for the latest workshop. Don’t wait; get in focus today!

ADHD and Me We have all seen children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and perhaps bouncing all over the room. Parents used to say, “Don’t worry, he’ll grow out of it.”  Well, sort of. I never outgrew my attention deficit disorder symptoms behavior which demonstrated problems with attention, hyperactivity, and impulse control. I did become more socialized as I grew up and stopped bouncing all over the place. The ADHD, though, reared its head in other ways. For instance, I could never stand taking college courses because I hated sitting in classes listening to the instructors interminably drone on, some of which have served to energize me when the going has gotten tough. I was not a traditional college student. I went back to college in my late 40s to complete my degree online. Remote education was perfect for me. I had coursework to complete every week and met with discussion groups to review the assignments. I was wild with joy, not having to listen to instructors interminably drone on! Online education was the solution to my lack of higher education.  I was thankfull for the internet for enabling me to pursue my education, which had been just a dream! Then one fine fall evening, I had a heart attack, requiring minor surgery. Except, there is no such thing as minor heart surgery. I wasn’t concerned though about my downtime, or even about the surgery.  My big concern was that if I took a leave from my class to recuperate, I would never come back, like what happened to me as a youngster (A 25+ year long semester off).  Then I remembered, “wait. I’ve been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder symptoms, and I can’t focus anyway.” I developed a plan and learned to manage my time. I worked in 15-minute sprints and would rest until I had the energy to go again, and my cat Farrah hung out with me the whole time. Wash, rinse, repeat, feed Farrah. I turned in everything on time, skyrocketed my productivity, and received an A in the class. That was an ah-ha moment for me! I found ways to be highly effective as an adult with ADHD despite having a natural lack of focus by creating time management techniques.   Since then, I have adopted and developed systems to leverage the lack of focus. These systems are readily available on the internet, and some are free. I could have looked at my difficulty in gaining focus as a curse, but instead, I looked upon it as a gift. Had I not used my lack of direction from ADHD to energize myself and organize my time, I would have never acquired a degree. Every condition and externalized symptom can either be a gift or a curse. Through my experience, I’ve learned alternative ways to get things done. If you’re an adult, college student or entrepreneur reading this article and you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD symptoms of anxiety and want to improve your time management skills, discover the art of focusing, and increase your productivity. Register here to join me as I teach a unique XYX process that will move you from A-Z at my Get In Focus and Skyrocket Productivity Workshop. This is a virtual event on Zoom, seating is limited so you are going to want to register sooner rather than later.  Looking forward to seeing you there.  There will also be the option to receive personal coaching from me during the breaks.   To register today, just click on the link:  https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/ Now please excuse me; I got to go!  I just saw a SQUIRREL.

Implementing a Neurodiverse Organization Creating a successful neurodiverse organization is crucial for companies that want to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workplace. Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavior, including quirky differences like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more. As I have gone over in my earlier articles, neurodiversity is a strong advantage in any organization.  So, without further ado, here are the top 10 ways to create a successful neurodiverse organization all while having fun and enlightenment: 1. Embrace diversity: Don’t be afraid to mix it up; let’s celebrate our differences like a bag of Skittles! Different perspectives lead to unique solutions in the neurodiverse organization. 2. Provide accommodations: Accommodations like flexible work hours, noise-canceling headphones, or assistive technology can help neurodivergent individuals perform at their best. Just like you wouldn’t ask a vegetarian to bring a steak to a potluck, we need to ensure neurodiverse organization teammates to have what they need to succeed. 3. Encourage a growth mindset: Encourage a growth mindset among employees by creating an environment that supports learning and growth and provides opportunities for professional development. We all have room for improvement, like how we all have room for another slice of pizza. 4. Foster a culture of inclusion: Create a safe and supportive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their differences. Let’s all be like The Avengers, united against anything that divides us. 5. Hire for potential: Hiring for potential rather than solely on experience or qualifications can help to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Why settle for a single scoop of ice cream when you can have a sundae with all the toppings? 6. Train the staff: Provide training for managers and employees on the advantages of the neurodiverse organization, thus creating a supportive environment. Just like you wouldn’t teach a fish to climb a tree, it’s essential to understand the strengths and challenges of team members in a neurodiverse organization. 7. Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate:  Create opportunities to work together and learn from each other. to borrow from the cliche, Two heads are better than one, and four heads are even better! 8. Mentor!: Provide mentorship opportunities for neurodiverse individuals to help them develop their skills and advance in their careers. We all need someone to show us the ropes, like how a GPS helps us find our way home. 9. Leverage technology: Leverage technology to support neurodiverse individuals, such as using speech recognition software or using chatbots to answer frequently asked questions. Tech is our friend, not our enemy, like how a rollercoaster is a thrill ride and not a death trap. 10. Continuously evaluate and improve: Continuously evaluate and improve the organization’s neurodiversity initiatives by regularly seeking feedback from neurodiverse individuals and making changes based on their needs. We never stop growing, just like how our waistlines never stop expanding. By following these top 10 ways to create a successful neurodiverse organization, a more inclusive and supportive workplace that leverages the strengths and talents of neurodiverse individuals can be created, leading to increased innovation, better decision-making, and improved business outcomes.  It can also be a lot of fun and enlightening too! You may ask yourself, “how do we do this?” The answer is to call Dr. Get in Focus; he can show you! To set up your free appointment, click here on the link!  https://calendly.com/dr_work_from_home/neurodiverse-organizational-buzz-meeting Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to get in focus and skyrocket their productivity. He is here to talk to see if he can help. His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs. Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/ for the latest workshop. Don’t wait; get in focus today!

Neurodiverse Super-Achievers Who are the Neurodiverse Super-Achievers? Neurodiversity refers to the natural differences in how people think and process information. Many successful entrepreneurs and business leaders have overcome the challenges posed by their unique neurological differences to achieve great things. Here are five examples of individuals who have demonstrated the power of neurodiversity in business: 1. Temple Grandin – The first of our Neurodiverse super-achievers is Temple Grandin.  As a person with autism, Temple Grandin has achieved great success in the field of animal science. She is a professor at Colorado State University. She has designed livestock handling facilities that are used all over the world. 2. Satoshi Nakamoto – The mysterious creator of the cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, is said to have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nakamoto’s innovative ideas have revolutionized the financial world and created a new form of currency that operates outside traditional financial institutions. 3. Richard Branson – The founder of the Virgin Group, Richard Branson, has dyslexia. Despite this learning disability, he has built a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate with over 400 companies in various industries. He produced one of my favorite songs of all time – Tubular Bells.  Most definitely one of the Neurodiverse super-achievers 4. Paul Orfalea – The founder of Kinko’s, Paul Orfalea, has ADHD. He struggled in traditional educational settings but went on to build a successful chain of copy centers that changed the way people think about office services. 5. Steve Jobs – Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD. Despite these challenges, he was a visionary in the technology industry. He created innovative products that transformed how people use technology in their daily lives.  In my book, Steve is definitely one of the Neurodiverse super-achievers 6. David Neeleman: David Neeleman is the founder of JetBlue Airways and has been open about his struggles with ADHD. Despite his challenges, he has built several successful airlines and has been a significant player in the aviation industry. 7. Adam Levine: Adam Levine, the lead singer of Maroon 5, has been open about his experiences with ADHD. He has channeled his energy and creativity into his music. He has become one of the most successful musicians of his generation. 8. Michael Phelps: Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, has been open about his ADHD diagnosis. He has used his discipline and focus to become a legendary swimmer and an inspiration to millions worldwide. 9. Ryan Holtz: Ryan Holtz is a motivational speaker and author who has been open about his experiences with ADHD. He has used his experiences to help others understand and overcome the challenges of ADHD and has become a leader in the ADHD community. 10. Jamie Oliver: Jamie Oliver, a famous chef and television personality, has been open about his ADHD diagnosis. Despite his challenges, he has become one of the world’s most successful and influential chefs. He has used his platform to raise awareness and advocate for healthy eating.  Most definitely one of the neurodiverse super-achievers The common denominator of all the neurodiverse super-achievers listed in this thread is that they have overcome adversity and succeeded despite having neurodiverse conditions, such as ADHD or autism. These individuals have shown that having a neurodiverse condition does not have to limit one’s potential or opportunities for success. They have each demonstrated resilience, determination, and creativity in overcoming the difficulties associated with their conditions. For example, some have used their energy and focus on excelling in fields such as aviation, music, sports, or cooking. Others have used their experiences to help others understand and overcome the challenges of being neurodiverse super-achievers to raise awareness and advocate for neurodiversity. These stories serve as a testament to the power of the human spirit and the resilience of the human mind. They show that Neurodiverse super-achievers can significantly impact the world and that their unique perspectives and abilities are valuable assets to society. These stories challenge the stigma and limitations often associated with neurodiversity and encourage greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiverse individuals. Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses and entrepreneurs with neurodiverse super-achievers.  He is always willing to have a conversation with you to see if he can help.  His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs.  Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/  for the latest workshop. Sources https://hbr.org/podcast/2021/11/neurodiversity-at-work https://neurodivergent.blog/adhders-achievers-adhd-success/ https://geniuswithin.org/what-is-neurodiversity/

Why it is vital to make accommodations for Neurodivergent Employees My last article discussed the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the modern workplace. When you bring on Neurodivergent Employees and reap their benefits, you got to provide accommodations lest face the consequences. Here, we explore ten potential consequences of not accommodating neurodiversity in the workplace and the importance of taking this issue seriously. 1. High turnover rates: Neurodivergent employees may feel unsupported and unable to work in an environment that does not cater to their specific needs. This can lead to high turnover rates and disruptions to workflow, which can be time-consuming and costly for the company. 2. Decreased customer satisfaction: Neurodivergent employees often excel in customer service and other interpersonal tasks. A lack of accommodations can lead to unhappy customers, resulting in reduced customer loyalty and a decline in business revenue. 3. Low productivity: With support systems in place for neurodiversity, productivity within the working environment will likely improve, leading to increased workloads for management teams and decreased productivity overall. 4. Damage to reputation: If news gets out that other businesses are providing better accommodations for neurodivergent workers, word will spread, and a company’s reputation may take a hit. This can, of course, lower the organization’s ability to attract top talent… not to mention the bottom line! 5. Stressed employees: Employers who do not make provisions for neurodivergent employees may have stressed-out staff members. The lack of accommodations can result in high levels of absenteeism due to mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, caused by feeling unsupported at work. 6. Costly litigation: If legal action is taken against a business due to its lack of accommodation for neurodivergent employees, it could turn out to be very expensive—both in terms of money and reputation damage control efforts, lowering profits and limiting its ability to attract the best and the brightest. 7. Bad Press: In the days of social media, word gets out fast! Not having appropriate resources in place for those with autism or ADHD can result in negative buzz, and it’s not easy to restore the organizational reputation. 8. Decreased job satisfaction and retention rates: Neurodiversity must be considered when creating job roles for job satisfaction levels to remain high among workers. Otherwise, retention rates could decrease significantly over time if necessary adjustments are not made. I don’t think I have to mention what that does to profitability and its effects on attracting talent. 9. Limited accessibility options: Companies who do not provide reasonable adjustments, such as assistive technology or alternative communication systems, for those with disabilities will face limited accessibility options when trying to onboard new hires with neurological impairments or disabilities. Not something that would please your stakeholders 10. Poor work/life balance for staff members with autism or ADHD: An inability (or unwillingness) on the part of employers to provide reasonable adjustments may result in poor work/life balance. Staff members with autism or ADHD need more flexible hours or workloads adjusted accordingly to thrive professionally.  Making accommodations for neurodivergent employees is more than just the right thing. It makes good biz sense. Neurodivergent employees can skyrocket an organization, but management needs to take neurodiversity into consideration and provide the necessary support and accommodations for their neurodivergent employees. Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses and entrepreneurs with neurodivergent team members.  He is always willing to have a conversation with you to see if he can help.  His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs.  Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/  for the latest workshop. References The Business Case for Neurodiversity – https://www.futurity.org/neurodiversity-business-case-2286376/ Why neurodiversity matters in the workplace – https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/01/13/why-neurodiversity-matters-in-the-workplace/?sh=2b7f5ed64c45 The Benefits of a Neurodiverse Workforce – https://hbr.org/2019/04/the-benefits-of-a-neurodiverse-workforce Making the Business Case for Autism Employment – https://autisticadvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ASAN_BusinessCaseforAutismEmployment.pdf The Positive Impact of Neurodiversity in the Workplace – https://neurodiversityworks.org/the-positive-impact-of-neurodiversity-in-the-workplace/

Why Hire Neurodivergent Team Members? Neurodivergent is a term used to describe people whose brains or behavior do not follow the traditional standards or definitions of “normal.” Neurodiversity encompasses all neurological variations, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette Syndrome, and other related conditions.  Too often undervalued and overlooked, neurodivergent team members have a lot to offer – from their out-of-the-box thinking to their expert problem-solving skills. Neurodivergent Team Members are becoming more widely accepted in both the workplace and the larger community – allowing them to make meaningful contributions to society at large. Neurodiversity has become an increasingly important factor in the hiring process, so it’s no wonder businesses are keen to bring on people with different neurological backgrounds. But what are the top 10 reasons employers want to hire the neurodivergent? Let’s find out! 1. Different Perspectives: Neurodivergent team members bring fresh perspectives to the workplace, challenging assumptions and outdated habits. This creates an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to better results for everyone involved. 2. Higher Productivity: Studies have shown that when teams include diversity, they tend to perform better than those without it. Neurodivergent minds think differently and can help develop creative solutions faster than traditional methods. 3. Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Neurodiverse thinkers often excel at problem identification and solving complex dilemmas. They can spot problems quickly, develop innovative solutions, and execute strategies more effectively than non-neurodiverse colleagues. 4. Team Benefits: Diversity fosters greater team collaboration as each individual brings their unique skill set, knowledge base, and preferences to the table. Working in a diverse team leads to higher engagement, job satisfaction, and results. 5. New Opportunities: Hiring neurodiverse talents means unlocking an untapped pool of potential candidates who might otherwise be overlooked due to traditional recruiting methods or preconceived biases about abilities or disabilities. 6. Increased Motivation: Including neurodivergent individuals in any organization encourages all team members to be more motivated and productive since they know they’re valued despite their differences from others on the team. 7. Effective Communication: Neurodiverse team members have distinct ways of communicating ideas compared to their non-neurodiverse counterparts. They can provide valuable insight into how best to communicate effectively across multiple organizational platforms. 8. Industry Recognition & Support: Organizations embrace differing abilities in today’s world. There is an increase in industry recognition for organizations who display this forward-thinking – leading organizations may even receive awards for their efforts! 9. Roots In Unique Experiences: Neurodiversity brings unique experiences from various backgrounds. These often help organizations break away from “the mold” when approaching specific tasks or projects and offer invaluable contributions when working towards complicated objectives. 10. Cost Effectiveness: Investing in neurodiverse talent can result in cost savings because accommodations often needed by non-neurotypical individuals will already be provided for them – thus eliminating costly adjustments down the road! It’s clear that there are many benefits for businesses that hire neurodivergent team members – so why not take advantage of this untapped potential? By embracing and promoting neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive work environment that celebrates the unique perspectives and talents of neurodivergent individuals. By investing in specialized coaching for their neurodiverse workforce, businesses can maximize employee productivity, job satisfaction, and work satisfaction. Investing in this type of coaching is an essential step towards truly leveraging the potential of those who are neurodivergent team members. Dr. Get in Focus works with businesses and entrepreneurs with neurodivergent team members.  He is always willing to have a conversation with you to see if he can help.  His website is https://plusultrava.com  to take advantage of his training programs.  Check https://getinfocusworkshop.plusultrava.com/  for the latest workshop. Don’t wait; get in focus today!