Life with ADHD can sometimes feel like juggling a dozen tasks with no clear starting point. From forgetting appointments to struggling with writing that first email, executive functioning challenges can pile up quickly.
But what if you had a personal assistant available 24/7 to help organize your thoughts, simplify tasks, and keep you on track? That’s where AI tools come in.
AI isn’t just for tech enthusiasts—it’s a game-changer for people with ADHD.
Here are some practical ways you can use AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and others to boost productivity, creativity, and peace of mind.
1. Organizing Your Day with ChatGPT
Ever feel paralyzed trying to structure your day? ChatGPT can help.
Ask it to create a daily schedule tailored to your needs:
🗓️ Example Prompt:
Help me create a daily schedule. I work from 9 AM to 5 PM, need breaks every hour, and want to fit in a 30-minute workout and time for meal prep.
Within seconds, you’ll have a roadmap to follow.
Need to adjust it mid-day? ChatGPT can tweak it for you.
2. Planning Trips Without Overwhelm
Planning a vacation can be exciting—but also overwhelming when you’re managing dozens of details.
Use ChatGPT to break it down into manageable steps.
🛫 Example Prompt:
I want to plan a 3-day trip to New York City. Create an itinerary that includes budget-friendly attractions, places to eat, and time for rest.
ChatGPT will generate a detailed plan, and you can edit it based on your preferences.
No more Googling for hours trying to piece it together!
3. Getting Started on Emails
Starting emails is a common hurdle for ADHD brains. You know what you want to say but can’t figure out how to start.
ChatGPT can draft that tricky first paragraph, and you can take it from there.
📧 Example Prompt:
Help me write an email to my boss asking for clarification on a project deadline. Make it polite and professional.
ChatGPT’s suggestion can serve as a jumping-off point, saving you time and frustration.
4. Doing Research with Perplexity
For ADHD minds that thrive on curiosity, diving into research can be both a blessing and a curse.
Perplexity AI is a tool that simplifies research by providing quick, reliable answers and citations.
🔍 Example Use Case:
You’re curious about how exercise impacts ADHD. Instead of falling down an endless rabbit hole, type your question into Perplexity:
What are the benefits of exercise for people with ADHD?
In seconds, you’ll get a concise answer with links to dig deeper if you want.
5. Tracking Tasks with AI-Powered Tools
Keeping track of tasks can be tricky, but tools like Notion AI or Todoist can make it easier.
Notion AI can generate to-do lists, prioritize tasks, and even suggest workflows.
✅ Example Use Case:
Input your scattered thoughts:
I need to write a report, buy groceries, and call the doctor.
Notion AI will organize these tasks into categories and suggest deadlines.
Todoist, on the other hand, can send you reminders and help you gamify task completion—perfect for ADHD brains that love rewards.
6. Boosting Creativity with ChatGPT
Feeling stuck while working on a creative project? ChatGPT can help brainstorm ideas, write outlines, or even draft content for blogs, stories, or presentations.
🎨 Example Prompt:
I’m writing a blog about the benefits of mindfulness for ADHD. Can you give me an outline?
It’s like having a creative partner who’s always ready to brainstorm, and has infinite patience.
7. Simplifying Meal Planning
Meal planning is one of those executive functioning nightmares for many with ADHD. How many times have you stared into the fridge and just couldn’t come up with what to eat, even when you had a lot of food in there?
Use ChatGPT to create a grocery list and suggest simple recipes based on what you already have.
🍳 Example Prompt:
I have chicken, rice, and broccoli. What’s a simple recipe I can make with these ingredients?
You’ll get step-by-step instructions without the overwhelm.
Why AI is a Game-Changer for ADHD
AI tools take the pressure off decision-making and organization, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
They don’t judge, they don’t get impatient, and they’re available any time you need them.
By leveraging tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Notion AI, and Todoist, you can tackle the executive functioning challenges that often come with ADHD.
Whether it’s planning your day, getting started on tasks, or sparking creativity, AI can be your secret weapon for living a more productive and less stressful life.
Ready to give it a try? Start small. Pick one tool or task you struggle with and see how AI can help.
You might just find it’s the assistant you never knew you needed.