ADHD: The Fixation with Hyperfocus

What is hyperfocus?

Hyperfocus is a common challenge for people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Hyperfocus is when you focus on something to the extent where you lose track of time, or stop noticing the world around you. It is the tendency to focus on one task for a long period of time. Often, people with ADHD find themselves getting stuck in a high level of detail with tasks and not being able to shift to other tasks. Hyperfocusing might not work well in some situations; however there are strategies and techniques that will help to manage it.

The strengths of hyperfocus for people with ADHD

In some situations, you might find hyperfocus to be useful as it allows you to apply yourself productively towards activities. Perhaps you find it helpful when you become very focused and productive. For example, when applying attention towards tasks that require extra attention to detail, such as designing a graphical representation, hyper focus can be an advantage.

The challenges of hyperfocus

You might find yourself struggling with hyperfocus when it leads to obsessions or addictions. These can take over your life without realising what is happening. For example, you might find yourself watching TV for hours on end, when there are other important things needing attention.

How you can manage hyperfocus?

The good news is that there are ways you can help manage the challenges of hyperfocus. Hyperfocus can be managed by setting goals and scheduling time during the day where you allow yourself to focus on just one task or activity for up to 30 minutes at a time, without interruption.

ADHD Ambition for Hyperfocus

ADHD Ambition is an online course featuring 6 modules packed full of helpful resources to help you with hyperfocus. To help you with hyperfocus, various modules in the course focus on time management strategies, goal setting and task planning. These modules are designed to ensure that you receive help managing hyperfocus. This is to make sure you can commit to a range of important outcomes throughout your daily life. The course offers a way for you to identify and embrace the advantages of having ADHD characteristics, such as hyperfocus.