How ADHD Brains Actually Get Motivated
Manage episode 521300237 series 3649599
Have you ever had one of those days where you’re doing everything you’re “supposed” to do to get motivated… and you still end up frozen, spiraling, or pushing yourself so hard you’re exhausted before you even begin?
If you’re an ADHD woman, that isn’t a character flaw. It’s conditioning. It’s survival mode.
And honestly? It’s one of the biggest reasons so many of us stay stuck in overwhelm and burnout.
In this episode, we’ll unpack why traditional motivation strategies — willpower, urgency, shame, fear, or trying to be “consistent” — backfire for ADHD brains. These approaches don’t support our wiring; they fight against it.
Then I walk you through four ADHD-friendly ways to actually get motivated without relying on panic, pressure, or self-judgment. You’ll learn how to work with your natural tendencies, match tasks to your energy, make things interesting, and regulate your nervous system so you can start from a place of safety instead of stress.
By the end, you’ll understand the real science behind ADHD motivation and have simple, doable tools to support yourself with more compassion and far fewer consequences.
Mentioned in the episode:
📺 Are You Living… or Just Functioning? ADHD’s Quiet Disconnection
—CHAPTERS—
00:00 Introduction: The Struggle with Motivation
00:29 Why Traditional Motivation Fails for ADHD
01:37 Welcome to the Podcast
02:18 Personal Anecdotes and Realizations
05:16 Common ADHD Motivation Pitfalls
22:54 Effective ADHD-Friendly Motivation Strategies
29:53 Conclusion and Resources
✨ If you found this episode helpful…
Please follow, subscribe, and share it with another ADHD woman who needs support!
💛 Connect with me on social media!
Youtube: @Jenbarnes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenbarneslicsw/
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal health or medical advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice or psychotherapy.
If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency please contact emergency services in your area. If you are in the USA, dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis line or 911 for a medical emergency.
125 episodes