I consider myself a fairly ambitious person. Eager to do my best in everything I lay my eyes on. That includes being the best:

• Spouse

• Parent

• Friend and

• Professional

I found this impossible during my ‘people pleasing’ days. And it sucked. 

At work, saying yes to everything (People pleasing) may result in: 

• Late working 

• Burnout

You arrive home, and all your kids wanna do is play with you.

But your mind is fixated on completing a deadline because you were pulled from ‘pillar to post’, saying yes to everything at work.

Perhaps you thought you’d impress…

Sh!t had to change and fast. I started putting myself first. 

Enabling me: 

• To recharge my energy levels, and 

• Be the best version of myself to be able to give more. 

Over a three-month period, I practised and measured the following rituals, which helped me find my work-life balance and integration.

1) Went to bed early

It all starts the night before for me. So I’d plan my day here, arrange my clothes so there’s less friction to decide what I’m wearing the next day. 

My work laptop, notepad are all organised and ready for me to start when ready the following day. 

I’d take the relevant bedtime supplements (magnesium) and read a book if I struggled falling asleep.

2) Phone on DND at work

My phone is on DND during my working hours. Subject to the nature of your work, one may not be able to do this.

For me, if I’m distracted, it’s difficult to resume and get back on track. 

So the idea of do not disturb is to narrow my focus on my job, being intentional with my time here. 

3) Physical exercise 

This is my favourite part. I get dopamine hits after a laborious workout. 

I aim to get this three to four times per week. I’m flexible with when I work out. Either before work, during lunch break, or after work. 

• My mood is better

• I sleep better, and

• My focus is better

4) Downtime with family 

When I spend time with the family before breakfast and after a long day of work. 

I try my best to leave work at work. Easier said than done, I’ll confess. Hence the reason for my lazer focus and DND at work. 

My ability to focus and eliminate distractions at work affects the time I spend with the family. 

My phone is still on DND during this time. Just so I can be present with them, catching up on their days. 

Final thoughts 

Being selfish enables me to be more present in the moments. My work-life balance improved, and I started seeing my desired result.

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Lastly,

Stay Different,

The AuDHD Exec

Disclaimer: I am not your psychiatrist, coach, doctor. Neurodiverse Diary does not provide medical services or professional counselling and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Everything I publish represents my opinions, experience, not advice.