ADHD Reset Strategies for Entrepreneurs: When My Systems Break Down
For me, breakdowns aren’t a matter of if—they’re a matter of when. I used to see them as failures, proof that I wasn’t capable of consistency. But over time, I’ve realized something: my ADHD systems don’t break down because I’m doing something wrong. They break down because life is constantly shifting, and so am I.
When my systems unravel, it’s like looking out at an overgrown garden. I started with good intentions—I planted routines, habits, and workflows that I thought would help me thrive. But then life happened. Unexpected obligations sprouted up like weeds. Distractions crept in, twisting around my focus. Some days, it feels like everything is tangled and overrun.
In the past, I would have blamed myself. Now, I know that the key isn’t perfection—it’s maintenance. Instead of giving up, I follow my four-step ADHD systems reset process, AKA The 4 Rs.
Step 1: Recognize—Seeing the Overgrowth
Before I can fix anything, I have to acknowledge that something isn’t working. Maybe I’m missing deadlines, ignoring my routines, or feeling completely stuck. Instead of spiraling into shame, I pause and simply observe: “I see that my habit system isn’t working right now.” That’s it. No judgment. Just recognition.
It’s like stepping back and realizing my garden is overgrown—not ruined, just in need of attention.
Step 2: Reset—Clearing Space
Now, I make room to breathe. I don’t overhaul my entire life; I just take small actions to reset. My go-to rituals include:
- Clearing off a small section of my workspace
- Moving my body—stretching, walking, or dancing for a few minutes
- Doing a sensory check-in to ground myself
- Writing down everything swirling in my mind
- Reconnecting with my core goals and values
These actions are like pulling out a few weeds, creating space for what really matters.
Step 3: Reduce—Simplifying My ADHD Systems
When overwhelm hits, my instinct is to do more—fix everything at once. But that only leads to burnout. Instead, I reduce. I strip my routines down to their essentials:
- Focus on just one or two key habits
- Lower expectations during the reset period
- Remove unnecessary complexity from my schedule
This isn’t about giving up—it’s about strategic pruning. Just like a gardener cuts back overgrowth so the strongest plants can thrive, I simplify my ADHD systems to make them sustainable.
Step 4: Rebuild—Growing With Intention
Once I have clarity, I start reintroducing structure, but this time, I do it intentionally. I don’t force myself into rigid systems that don’t fit how my brain works. Instead, I rebuild with my ADHD, not against it. I focus on:
- Small, meaningful habits instead of rigid rules
- Flexibility over perfection
- Tools and strategies that work for me, not just what works for others
Honoring the Process
I’ve learned that breakdowns aren’t signs of failure—they’re part of the process. When my ADHD systems fall apart, it doesn’t mean I’m broken. It means I need to pause, take a step back, and reset. Instead of fighting against the natural cycles of my mind, I’ve learned to work with them—tending to my garden with curiosity, self-compassion, and trust in my ability to grow. So, the next time I find myself lost in the weeds, I won’t panic. I’ll take a deep breath, clear some space, and begin again.
Looking for personalized support on your journey with ADHD?
I’m Kasey Corsello, an integrative coach specializing in helping entrepreneurs and professionals with ADHD. With my Integrative and Cultural Intelligence coach training, combined with personal experience as someone with ADHD, a business owner, and parent of neuro-divergent children, I understand the unique challenges you face.
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Visit my website to learn more about how my ADHD coaching can help you become a solution-creator and achieve your goals. Let’s work together to unlock your full potential.