The self-regulation part of your brain can help you healthily manage your emotions, follow habits that you need to keep yourself healthy, and regulate your impulse control to avoid making risky decisions. “Set up autopay for bills and savings goals (like automatically contributing to a retirement fund or moving money from checking into saving) and move everything to electronic delivery (ADHDers tend to get buried under paperwork),” says Bryan-Podvin. I know this is true because I am staring at a stack of papers I need to “sort and file.” One of the apps I recommend if you’re just getting started organizing your finances is Mint. Mint is a free tool that helps you manage your money by connecting to your bank accounts to help monitor your spending. This app can also alert you if you’re spending too much in one category, like Uber Eats. I routinely did this with my mentor/boss at my old job. She would usually have my work with her in the boardroom where I could spread out, eat snacks, and fidget while completing an assignment. Aspirational spending is purchasing items that you think will make you a better version of yourself. I’ve been guilty whenever I buy something to help me make a YouTube video. Guys, I’ve only made one in the past year. Not to brag, but many of us with ADHD are very creative people with high energy who are not afraid to take life into our hands and run with it. As Dr. Seuss says, “Oh, the places you will go,” and that includes you downloading that app that puts aside money for your lattes while simultaneously paying your bills. • Executive function can be a struggle, so automate your finances as much as you can to make it easier to keep up. • Try body doubling. Working with a partner on your finances can help you stay focused. • When you’re getting into your budget or planning your next money moves, use a timer, set goals, and take breaks. • If spending cash for a dopamine boost wrecks your budget, try setting aside a spontaneity fund. • It’s okay to feel a lot of things if you’re newly diagnosed with ADHD. Try doing one small thing for your finances today.
