Productivity

How an Assistant Can Help Adults With ADHD

For adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), an executive assistant can be a valuable resource for helping them better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD often struggle with organization and time management, which can make it challenging to stay on top of tasks and responsibilities.

An executive assistant is a professional who supports high-level executives, such as CEOs, presidents, and other top-level managers, in their daily responsibilities. Executive assistants provide support for tasks such as scheduling, travel arrangements, event planning, and other business-related tasks, as well as general office administration.

Research has shown that people with ADHD can benefit from using an executive assistant to manage daily tasks and stay organized. A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that adults with ADHD who used an executive assistant for task management had better organization, time management, and overall functioning compared to those who did not use an executive assistant. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that the use of an executive assistant was effective in improving task management and organization in adults with ADHD.

Using an executive assistant can be especially beneficial for individuals with ADHD who have difficulty with memory and following through with tasks. Here are three ways they can help:

  1. Task Management — An executive assistant can help individuals with ADHD manage their tasks and stay organized. They can set reminders, make phone calls, send texts, and even schedule appointments, which can be a huge help for people with ADHD to stay on top of their responsibilities.

  2. Administrative Support — An executive assistant can help with managing emails, paperwork, and other administrative tasks, reducing the number of distractions and interruptions that can make it difficult for people with ADHD to focus. Additionally, an EA can help with time management, prioritizing tasks, and delegating responsibilities to others when needed.

  3. Accountability — Having an executive assistant can provide a sense of accountability, knowing that there is someone to hold you accountable for the tasks that need to be done. This can be especially helpful for people with ADHD, as they may struggle with procrastination and disorganization. An executive assistant can also provide feedback and performance evaluation, which can help individuals with ADHD to monitor their progress and identify areas where they need to improve.

Using an executive assistant can be a valuable tool for people with ADHD to help them manage daily tasks and stay organized. Research has shown that the use of an executive assistant can improve organization, time management, and overall functioning in adults with ADHD. It is important to note that using an executive assistant should be used as a supplement to other treatment options and should not replace professional care and treatment.

Interesting in exploring how an executive assistant can work for you? My BTLR can help. Call us today for a confidential consultation.

The Benefits of Using a Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant (VA) is a professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely. There are many benefits to using a VA, including cost savings, flexibility, and access to a wide range of skills.

One of the biggest benefits of using a VA is cost savings. Hiring a full-time employee can be costly, especially for small businesses or individuals. VAs work remotely, so there are no additional expenses for things like office space or equipment. In addition, clients only pay for the time that the VA works, rather than the typical salary and benefits of a full-time employee.

Another benefit of using a VA is flexibility. Clients can choose to hire a VA on a project-by-project basis or on a regular schedule, depending on their needs. This allows them to have the support they need without committing to a long-term arrangement. In addition, because VAs work remotely, clients can access their services from anywhere in the world, making it easy to work across different time zones.

VAs also offer a wide range of skills, from administrative and technical tasks to creative projects. Many VAs have experience working in a variety of industries, which means they can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to a project. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses or individuals who do not have a dedicated support staff.

In summary, there are many benefits to using a virtual assistant, including cost savings, flexibility, and access to a wide range of skills. By hiring a VA, businesses and individuals can access the support they need without committing to a long-term arrangement and can work with a professional who brings knowledge and experience to the project.

Want more information on ways to use a virtual assistant? Check our 20 Tasks to Delegate to a Virtual Assistant blog post.

6 Tips for Taking Better Notes

Taking effective meeting notes is a critical skill for anyone who wants to stay organized and productive in a professional setting. Whether you're in a one-on-one meeting with a coworker or attending a large conference, taking notes can help you stay focused, understand key points, and remember important information. Here are a few tips to help you take better meeting notes:

  1. Prepare in Advance — Before the meeting starts, make sure you have all the necessary materials, such as a notebook and pen or a digital device for recording. It's also a good idea to review any relevant documents or agenda items so you can be better prepared to take notes.

  2. Use a Specific Format — Having a consistent format for your notes can make them easier to read and understand later on. This could be something as simple as using bullet points or numbered lists, or something more structured like the Cornell Method.

  3. Focus on Key Points — Instead of trying to write down every word said in the meeting, focus on capturing the main ideas and key points. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting bogged down in details.

  4. Use Symbols and Abbreviations — To save time and increase efficiency, use symbols and abbreviations to represent frequently used words or phrases. This will also help you save space in your notes.

  5. Review and Organize Your Notes — After the meeting, take a few minutes to review and organize your notes. This will help you identify any important information you may have missed and ensure your notes are clear and easy to understand.

  6. Use Technology to Your Advantage — There are many apps and software available that can help you take better meeting notes. Some apps allow you to record audio or video, transcribe speech to text, or sync notes with a calendar. Here is a good list of note-taking apps to get you started.

By following these tips, you can take better meeting notes and stay organized and productive in your professional life. Remember, taking meeting notes is a skill that takes practice to perfect, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away.