Learn to Thrive with ADHD Podcast

Ep 115: ADHD-Friendly Motivation: One Question That Changes Your Day


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Are you exhausted from negotiating with yourself all day long—about getting out of bed, doing the task, starting the project, or eating the thing? Do you wish motivation felt less like pressure and more like support? In this solo episode, Coach Mande shares one simple question that transforms how ADHD brains navigate daily motivation: "What would make me most proud in this moment?"

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The one question that reduces friction and makes hard tasks suddenly feel doable
  • Why "just do it" doesn't work for ADHD brains (and what works instead)
  • How to stop the exhausting mental tug-of-war that happens before every task
  • The surprising truth: sometimes the answer to the question is REST (and why that's completely valid)
  • How this practice invites you into alignment with who you want to be—moment by moment—without shame or pressure
  • Why this question helps you move from constant self-negotiation to clarity and action
  • Practical ways to remember the practice (using emotions as cues, making it visible, building it into your day)
  • How small, consistent choices stack up over time to create real momentum
  • Why you don't have to do this perfectly or every day—and why that's the entire point

Mande shares how she stumbled onto this question while working with a client, why it works so well for ADHD brains, and the cumulative effect it's had on her own life. She also unpacks the important nuance: this isn't about productivity. It's about honesty, self-trust, and making choices that gently move you toward who you want to be. Sometimes that's action. Sometimes that's rest. Both count.

Key Takeaway: Motivation doesn't have to feel harsh. This one question creates space for compassionate self-coaching that actually works—without adding another "should" to your list. When you ask yourself what would make you most proud in this moment, you're practicing honesty, building self-trust, and making choices that align with your values.

Resources Mentioned:

  • FREE downloadable guide: Reflective questions + printable at learntothrivewithadhd.com/proud
  • Instagram post to save and share: @learntothrivewithadhd
  • Weekly ADHD Newsletter: learntothrivewithadhd.com/weekly

Ready to lower friction and make ADHD easier? Book a free coaching consultation with Coach Mande at learntothrivewithadhd.com/services

#ADHD #ADHDPodcast #ADHDMotivation #ADHDCoaching #SelfCompassion #MentalHealth #PersonalDevelopment #LearnToThrive #ADHDSupport #Neurodiversity


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Learn to Thrive with ADHD PodcastBy Mande John

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