How Does Executive Dysfunction Show Up for You?

I just can’t seem to get started, even if I want to.

There are just too many random things piling up.

That’s not something I’m struggling with right now.

The Initiation Blocker

Consistency Drainer

Overwhelm Accumulator

When you think about your unfinished tasks right now, what usually gets in the way?

I default to passive activities like scrolling or zoning out instead of starting anything.

I get started but bounce between things and don’t finish.

I feel overwhelmed by everything I’ve been avoiding and freeze up.

I usually use that time without too much stress or confusion.

You finally have some free time for personal productivity. What’s your most common reaction?

How do you feel about daily habits like brushing your teeth or taking meds?

I make them, but I rarely follow through or get started.

I get some things done, but many roll over endlessly.

I don’t want to look at mine because it’s overwhelming.

I don’t use to-do lists because they don’t really help me stay organized.

Which best describes your relationship with to-do lists?

Simple printable checklists and templates.

Interactive apps or tools that guide me as I go.

Short written explanations or step-by-step guides I can read at my own pace.

I put them off intentionally because I dread starting them.

I plan them out but often cancel, delay, or avoid follow-through.

I forget they exist until they become urgent.

These kinds of tasks usually aren’t a big struggle for me.

How do you typically handle important one-off tasks like paperwork, errands, or scheduling things?

I drift into low-effort distractions and never quite get back on track.

I feel like I failed, so I avoid it for a while.

I move on quickly, but end up starting new things and leave a trail of half-finished tasks.

I don’t lose momentum often, and when I do, it’s easy to get back on track.

What usually happens when you stop doing something you meant to stick with?

Advice that assumes starting is easy if I just try harder.

Advice that expects me to be consistent every day with no room for off days.

Advice that focuses only on routines and ignores one-off or irregular tasks.

None of these really bother me, or I don’t think much about productivity advice.

Which kind of advice feels the least helpful for your brain?

No formal diagnosis, but I strongly suspect I’m neurodivergent.

I’m not sure or haven’t explored this much yet.

I don’t identify as neurodivergent, or I prefer not to say.

Therapy, coaching, or professional support.

I’ve mostly tried to figure things out on my own.

I’m just starting to explore possible resources.

I’m not really focused on this right now.

I keep meaning to do them, but I forget until the day is mostly over.

I get started but run out of energy and end up doing something else.

I get pulled into smaller or easier tasks and never get to the important ones.

This isn’t something I struggle with right now.

What happens most frequently when you try to follow a plan for the day?

Detailed step-by-step systems that help me stay on track.

Personal stories from people who’ve been through it.

Scientific breakdowns that explain why my brain works this way.