As a neurodivergent entrepreneur, does your brilliant mind sometimes feel like a browser with 100 tabs open? You’re not alone. Our unique brain wiring often leads us to excel in creative problem-solving and innovative thinking. However, this same trait can sometimes work against us, especially when it comes to organizing and systematizing our businesses.
The Neurodivergent Business Owner’s Dilemma
Many neurodivergent business owners, particularly those with ADHD or AuDHD, find themselves caught in a perpetual cycle of:
Executive Dysfunction: Even when we know what needs to be done, initiating action can feel impossible.
Overwhelm: The sheer volume of tasks and responsibilities can feel insurmountable.
Decision Paralysis: With so many options and ideas, choosing a path forward becomes increasingly difficult.
Perfectionism: The desire to create the “perfect” system often prevents us from implementing any system at all.
These challenges often manifest in our approach to business systems. When you hear the word “systems,” what’s your gut reaction? For many of us, it’s one of the following:
- “I’ll deal with it later… it’s too boring right now.”
- “There are SO many options. I don’t even know where to start!”
- “I have all these ideas, but I’m too overwhelmed to implement any of them.”
The result? You’re stuck in business chaos, not taking action, and feeling increasingly frustrated.
Enter the 5-Minute System Reset
What if I told you there’s a simple technique that can help break this cycle? Enter the 5-Minute System Reset. This straightforward method can help you cut through the mental clutter and find clarity in just a few minutes. Here’s how it works:
Set a Timer for Five Minutes: This time constraint helps prevent overthinking and keeps you focused. Step Back Mentally: Imagine you’re looking at your business from an outsider’s perspective. This mental distance can provide valuable clarity. Ask Yourself Three Key Questions:
- If I were a complete beginner, where would I start?
- How would I create this system if I didn’t have access to any fancy tools or apps?
- What is the actual goal of this system? Why am I implementing it?
By answering these questions, you’ll often uncover a simpler, more straightforward solution to your business challenge.
Why This Method Works for Neurodivergent Minds
The 5-Minute System Reset is particularly effective for neurodivergent entrepreneurs because:
It’s Time-Bound: The 5-minute limit works well with how many neurodivergent minds operate, providing a sense of urgency without overwhelm.
It Limits Options: By imagining you’re a beginner or have limited tools, you naturally narrow your focus to the essentials.
It Taps Into Beginner’s Mind: This perspective can help you see your business with fresh eyes, cutting through accumulated assumptions.
It Refocuses on Purpose: Asking about the goal realigns you with your “why,” which can be a powerful motivator for neurodivergent individuals.
Putting It Into Practice
Let’s look at a quick example. Say you’re struggling to organize your client onboarding process. It feels like there are a million steps, tools, and possibilities. Here’s how you might apply the 5-Minute System Reset:
Set your timer for 5 minutes.
Step back mentally from all the complex ideas you have about onboarding.
Ask yourself:
What’s the fundamental goal of my onboarding process? (Hint: It’s probably to make the client feel welcome and set clear expectations)
If I were just starting out, how would I welcome a new client?
Without any fancy tools, what’s the simplest way to get a client the information they need?
You might realize that a simple welcome email with key information and a scheduling link for a kick-off call is all you really need to start. You can always refine and expand the process later.
Remember: Progress Beats Perfection
As neurodivergent entrepreneurs, we often let perfect be the enemy of good. But remember, an imperfect system that you actually use is infinitely better than a “perfect” system that never leaves your mind.
This 5-Minute Reset technique can help you:
- Break free from overthinking
- Overcome executive dysfunction
- Create simpler, more effective systems
And the best part? This method isn’t just for business systems. You can apply it to any overwhelming task or decision in your entrepreneurial journey.
Your Turn
I encourage you to try this 5-Minute System Reset the next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your business. You might be surprised at the clarity and simplicity you can achieve in just a few minutes.
Have you tried similar techniques in your business? Or do you have your own methods for managing overwhelm as a neurodivergent entrepreneur? Share your experiences in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other and build more efficient, neurodivergent-friendly businesses together.
Remember, your unique mind is your strength. With the right techniques, you can harness its full potential to create a business that not only succeeds but also aligns with how you naturally work best.
To learn more about how an OBM can elevate your coaching business, consider booking a free consultation with me. I can provide personalized advice and support to help you streamline, automate, scale, and succeed in your business.
Take the first step towards transforming your business today!