I Keep Quitting To-Do Apps. This ADHD System Survived.

A Simple Two-Part To-Do System

A to-do system’s success isn’t measured by how many features it has, but by how easy it is to return to after a period of low motivation. Complex, high-maintenance systems can create cognitive overload and make it harder to get started again. A simpler system can reduce resistance and adapt to changing energy and mood.

1. Input layer: One digital place for every task

• Write tasks down to get them out of your head and reduce the stress of trying to remember them.
• Choose a digital app that makes it easy to add tasks from anywhere and across devices. The presenter uses Apple Reminders and also mentions built-in notes apps such as Google Keep and Apple Notes.
• Keep organization minimal. Avoid elaborate folders, project groupings, and categories unless they’re genuinely useful. The presenter uses one list and labels only urgent tasks.

2. Execution layer: A physical notebook for today

• Each day, review the digital task list and choose roughly three to six priorities. Carry over unfinished tasks as needed.
• Use an A/B priority system:
  • A tasks are the few essential tasks that must be done today. Choose them carefully so completing them makes the day feel successful.
  • B tasks are useful or desirable, but less critical.
• Cross tasks off in the notebook as you complete them.
• Once or twice a day—or the next morning—mark completed tasks as done in the digital list.
• Focus mainly on today instead of planning too far ahead. For tasks with a specific due date and time, add a calendar event as well as keeping the task on the list.

Overall aim

Make it easy to restart. If you stop using the system, you should be able to return without rebuilding complex workflows or remembering many rules.

Presenter/source: Sher Talks. The presenter’s name is not stated in the subtitles.