Perfectionism isn’t just about high standards; it’s about fear—fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of not being good enough. I break down why our brains avoid discomfort and, more importantly, how we can retrain our thinking to push through. By the end of this episode, you’ll have actionable strategies to move past avoidance and take that first step—whether it’s asking for help, tackling a big project, or simply getting started.

✅ The hidden connection between perfectionism, ADHD, and procrastination

✅ Why avoiding discomfort keeps you stuck in task paralysis

✅ How to reframe discomfort as part of growth, not something to fear

✅ The difference between being stuck vs. procrastinating (and why it matters!)

✅ A mindset shift that makes starting tasks easier and less overwhelming

Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach

Resources Mentioned:

• Free training: Creating a Formula to Overcome Procrastination and Get Unstuck
• Read the blog version of this episode: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/021

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

• Website: Executive Functioning First
• Email: sarah@executivefunctioningfirst.com
• Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background

If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly playing catch-up or struggling to keep the plates spinning, this episode is packed with realistic, practical strategies to help you navigate overwhelm and move forward with more clarity and ease.I break down what overwhelm actually is, why it happens, and how it impacts ADHD and executive function.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ How to identify different types of overwhelm (emotional, sensory, time-related, decision fatigue, etc.)

✔️ Why overwhelm impacts executive function and makes task-switching harder

✔️ The role of self-talk in managing stress and avoiding burnout

✔️ How to prioritize and decide what will have the most impact right now

✔️ A step-by-step process to check in with yourself and create a realistic plan

✔️ Why adjusting expectations and self-compassion are key to navigating overwhelm

Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach

Resources Mentioned:

• Read the blog version of this episode: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/019

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

• Website: Executive Functioning First
• Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background

This episode is for my overachievers—the ones who feel the pressure to do more, be more, and never slow down. If you’ve ever felt torn between “hustle harder” and “slow down for self-care,” you’re not alone. Today, I’m unpacking the all-or-nothing thinking that keeps so many stuck in ADHD overwhelm and showing you how to create space for both “productivity” and rest without burning out.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why overachievers with ADHD often feel caught between “do more” and “do less” messaging
• How all-or-nothing thinking fuels ADHD overwhelm and leads to burnout
• 3 Simple reflection questions to help you notice what’s going well (and give yourself credit)
• A fresh way to think about balancing productivity and rest without the guilt
• Practical ways to avoid burnout while still getting things done

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing too much and not enough at the same time, this conversation will help you find a gentler, more sustainable middle ground.

Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach

Resources Mentioned:

• Brick: Get 10% off and use your phone more intentionally
• Get your Free ADHD Action Plan
• Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started
• Read the Blog here

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

• Website: Executive Functioning First
• Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background