023: How to pick the right strategies to navigate perfectionism, executive dysfunction, and ADHD paralysis

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

#Fitness #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Podcasting Education #Sarah Lovell - Executive Function & ADHD Coach #ADHD Coaching #Sarah Lovell - Executive Function #Executive Function

35:00

The healing power of fitness goes far beyond physical benefits—for today’s guest, it’s a form of self-expression and a celebration of what the body can do. In this episode, host Nora McInerny sits down with fitness personality Ivylis Rivera, who shares her deeply personal journey of navigating life with Chronic Migraine while holding onto her passion for movement. Ivylis opens up about the struggle of staying active while facing the fear of triggering a headache or migraine attack and the resilience it takes to keep pushing forward—a resilience that carried her through the challenging journey of finding a Chronic Migraine treatment plan that worked for her. Join Nora and Ivylis as they explore the concept of “soft living,” a philosophy Ivylis embraces—staying active, listening to your body, and building trust in oneself. Click here for Product Information, including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide, or visit https://abbv.ie/prescribing_info See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 17:49

MP3•Episode home

Have you ever spent hours researching the perfect planner, rewriting an email 10 times before hitting send, or waiting for the right time to start a project? You might think it’s perfectionism, but what if it’s actually executive dysfunction?

In this episode, I break down how perfectionism and executive dysfunction overlap, why both can keep you stuck, and how to recognize what’s really holding you back. By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to identify whether it’s perfectionism, executive dysfunction, or both—and what to do next.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How perfectionism and executive dysfunction create a cycle of avoidance

✅ The difference between procrastination, perfectionism, and task paralysis

✅ How time blindness makes perfectionists wait for the perfect time

✅ Why searching for the “best” system can actually be procrastination

✅ A practical way to recognize what’s really keeping you stuck

Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach

Resources Mentioned:

Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast
Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started
Read the blog version of this episode here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/023

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

Website: Executive Functioning First
Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background

Mentioned in this episode:

A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now

If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up!

Coaching

33 episodes

023: How to pick the right strategies to navigate perfectionism, executive dysfunction, and ADHD paralysis

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How perfectionism and executive dysfunction create a cycle of avoidance

✅ The difference between procrastination, perfectionism, and task paralysis

✅ How time blindness makes perfectionists wait for the perfect time

✅ Why searching for the “best” system can actually be procrastination

✅ A practical way to recognize what’s really keeping you stuck

Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach

Resources Mentioned:

Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast
Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started
Read the blog version of this episode here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/023

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

Website: Executive Functioning First
Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background

Mentioned in this episode:

A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now

Coaching

33 episodes

#Fitness #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Podcasting Education #Sarah Lovell - Executive Function & ADHD Coach #ADHD Coaching #Sarah Lovell - Executive Function #Executive Function

All episodes

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
032: You’re Not Lazy: Self-Compassion for ADHD Brains with Meg Duke, LCSW-S, ADHD-CCSP, LCDC 46:48

4 days ago46:48

46:48

If you love winding conversations, you’re going to love this chat with Meg Duke. We talk about navigating business, burnout, and the art of doing things differently. It’s full of honest reflections, practical strategies, and a shared appreciation for doing things your way —even if that means letting go of hustle culture and embracing imperfect action. In this episode, we talk about: The difference between therapy & coaching for ADHD – the benefits of therapy & coaching for ADHD & how to find the right support for you Letting go of productivity guilt – Why rest is essential for creative minds and how embracing your natural rhythms can actually help you get more done. Creating systems that work for your brain – How trial-and-error, playful experimentation, and curiosity can lead to sustainable routines. The connection between burnout and executive function challenges – What burnout really looks like for ADHDers and how to recognize the warning signs early. Navigating the emotional side of task initiation – Why starting is often the hardest part, and how mindset shifts and tiny steps can break the paralysis. Permission to do things differently – How rejecting hustle culture, embracing your own pace, and leaning into your strengths can be the key to consistency. About the guest Meg Duke: Meg Duke, LCSW-S, ADHD-CCSP, LCDC (she/her), is a compassionate mental health professional specializing in neurodivergence and perinatal mental health. As the owner of Amplify Wellness Mental Health & Coaching, she provides tailored support to enhance focus, balance, and overall well-being through mindfulness, humor, and a nonjudgmental approach. Meg also hosts The Perinatal Podcast, exploring ADHD, mental wellness, and personal growth, and leads workshops on the intersection of ADHD and perinatal experiences. Outside of her work, she enjoys crafting, sewing, rock climbing, and karaoke while fostering inclusivity and authenticity in all she does. Connect with Meg Duke: The free Navigating ADHD Mini Workbook: https://subscribepage.io/ADHDMiniWorkbook The Perinatal Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-perinatal-podcast/id1590957531 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amplifywellnesswithmeg/ Website: https://megdukelcsw.com/ About the host Sarah Lovell: Sarah is an executive function and ADHD coach who helps college students, professionals, and perfectionists get unstuck and take action in a way that works with their brains—not against them. With 11 years of experience and a background in social work, she combines practical tools with compassionate support so her clients can stop burning out, start making progress, and feel good doing it. Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
031: Task switching with ADHD: Why it's so hard for neurodivergent brains to start and stop tasks with Vivien Renee Benben 44:39

11 days ago44:39

44:39

In this episode I chat with Viven Renee Benben, founder of Excalibur Coaching. We go deep on task switching, system fatigue, communication challenges, and how to work with your brain instead of against it. Whether you’re team “train brain” or “car brain,” you’ll leave this episode with new metaphors, real-life strategies, and a whole lot of self-compassion. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why communication challenges can be tied to executive functioning Why task switching is so hard & strategies to help you task switch Why your systems “expire” what to do if systems that used to work for you aren’t working anymore Our favorite brain metaphors to help you understand your own brain wiring Why “eating the frog” isn’t for everyone & strategies to help you start tasks that work for your brain About the guest Viven Renee Benben: Vivien is the founder of Excalibur Coaching which is currently partnered with a major Fortune 500 tech company and provides neurodiversity coaching to their employees. Vivien's coaching specialties focus on career, life, and communication for adults with ADHD, Autism, Learning disabilities. With a degree in anthropology, and a certificate in ADHD life coaching, Vivien helps her clients learn, grow and thrive. Outside of coaching, Vivien enjoys time with her Irish Setter mix, singing karaoke, and exploring new crafts for her hobby graveyard. Connect with Vivien: Excalibur Coaching: https://excaliburcoaching.com/ About the host Sarah Lovell: Sarah is an executive function and ADHD coach who helps college students, professionals, and perfectionists get unstuck and take action in a way that works with their brains—not against them. With 11 years of experience and a background in social work, she combines practical tools with compassionate support so her clients can stop burning out, start making progress, and feel good doing it. Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
030: Ayurveda for Beginners: Self-Care Rituals That Actually Fit Your Busy Life with Rita Sweeney 42:01

18 days ago42:01

42:01

I’m so excited to introduce you to my friend and special guest, Rita Sweeney , an Ayurvedic health counselor. In this episode, Rita shares how Ayurveda helped her heal chronic health issues, and how it can support your energy, focus, and daily rhythms. We talk about what Ayurveda actually is, how it’s way more intuitive (and realistic!) than you might think, and how to integrate simple, sensory-supportive practices into your day—without overhauling your life. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE What Ayurveda is and how it differs from Western approaches to wellness How your digestion (yes, even mental digestion) impacts energy and focus Simple Ayurvedic daily habits that support focus How to use sensory care to feel more grounded and less scattered Why small shifts in self-care can lead to big long-term change About the guest Rita Sweeney: Rita Sweeney is a certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Ayurvedic teacher, and reiki practitioner. She offers 1:1 wellness counseling, community-focused workshops, and bi-annual seasonal cleanses to support clients to improve digestion, optimize energy levels, and find mental clarity. Rita uses this time-tested system of medicine to help clients draw connections between symptoms, understand their mind-body from different perspectives, and feel empowered with practical tools to support nourishment. Rita is currently in an apprenticeship to continue her studies in herbalism and women's health, with the goal of supporting her clients more deeply in balancing menstrual cycles and optimizing fertility. Connect with Rita: Website: https://www.rhythmiclivingayurveda.com/ Instagram: @rita.rhythmic.living.ayurveda Blog Post about Doshas: https://www.rhythmiclivingayurveda.com/blog/understanding-ayurvedic-basics-the-three-doshas About the host Sarah Lovell: Sarah is an executive function and ADHD coach who helps college students, professionals, and perfectionists get unstuck and take action in a way that works with their brains—not against them. With 11 years of experience and a background in social work, she combines practical tools with compassionate support so her clients can stop burning out, start making progress, and feel good doing it. Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
029: Neurodivergent-Friendly Money & Budgeting Tips with Stephanie Berman 31:32

25 days ago31:32

31:32

Do you have personal finance goals, but you’re not sure where to start? Does the idea of creating a budget feel overwhelming? Managing finances requires all of your executive function skills & special expertise, so we have a neurodivergent money coach joining us on the podcast today! I had so much fun talking with Stephanie Berman - she makes budgeting less intimidating, normalizes impulse spending, and shares realistic strategies you can start using today to feel more confident managing your money. About the guest Stephanie Berman: Stephanie is a money coach who equips fellow neurodivergents with skills needed to achieve financial freedom. She specializes in budgeting basics and leading clients from overwhelm to “Oh! I get it!” She draws wisdom from lessons learned the hard way, her journey from minimum wage to debt free living, and her financial coach master training. Recently diagnosed with ADHD & autism, she understands the neurodivergent tendencies toward overwhelm & impulsive buying. Since she began her coaching career in 2018, her clients have paid off over a half million dollars in debt. What You’ll Learn in This Episode ADHD-friendly budgeting strategies that actually work How to manage money without shame or overwhelm Simple ways to track spending Tools and tips for reducing impulse buying How to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle Why traditional budgets fail—and what to do instead How to use YNAB (You Need a Budget) for neurodivergent brains How to get Step-by-step support for building realistic money habits Connect with Stephanie Berman: Website & Free 7 Day ADHD Money Transformation Challenge: https://www.bermanbudgeting.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bermanbudgeting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourneurodivergentmoneycoach/ About the host Sarah Lovell: Sarah is an executive function and ADHD coach who helps college students, professionals, and perfectionists get unstuck and take action in a way that works with their brains—not against them. With 11 years of experience and a background in social work, she combines practical tools with compassionate support so her clients can stop burning out, start making progress, and feel good doing it. Connect with Sarah Lovell: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
028: 3 Tools to overcome procrastination when you're paralyzed, overwhelmed, and stuck 20:15

5 weeks ago20:15

20:15

Do you have something you want to do, but you just can't start? In this episode, I share my own personal story of being stuck and the exact step-by-step formula I use (and teach clients!) to take action in a way that feels good. This episode will help you understand what’s really getting in the way (it may not be what you think)—and how to gently shift your mindset and choose tools that actually work for your brain. Want even more support getting unstuck? 🎧 Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Includes 5 short episodes + email support with tools, summaries, and checklists so you can take action and get unstuck What You’ll Learn: The difference between procrastination and stuckness How self-talk can sabotage your ability to get started Why perfectionism and “someday goals” keep us paralyzed A simple shift to turn a vague goal into an action plan Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
027: 6 Ways to Make Life Easier One Small Step at a Time 20:27

6 weeks ago20:27

20:27

Does it feel like it's impossible to do anything “extra” because your day is so jam packed? In this episode, we’re talking about how tiny, intentional choices can create more ease in your daily life. From quick mindset shifts to simple habits, you’ll learn how to set future you up for success—without adding more stress to your plate. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How small decisions can reduce future stress The power of the Two-Second Rule and how to use it Why protecting your time isn’t selfish—it’s necessary (and simple ways to start protecting your time) How to start making small changes today that will pay off later Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Read the blog version here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/027 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
026: How to keep track of everything on your plate: A simple strategy to make to-do lists less overwhelming 19:46

7 weeks ago19:46

19:46

If your never-ending to-do list is stressing you out, it might be time for a new approach. Instead of constantly adding to a list that never seems to get shorter, what if you had a system that actually worked for your brain? In this episode, I’m sharing a fresh way to track everything you need to do—without the overwhelm. What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Why traditional to-do lists don’t always work (especially for ADHD brains) ✅ A new system to keep track of everything without feeling scattered ✅ How to work with your energy ✅ The power of visual organization and flexible planning ✅ Simple tweaks that make getting started on tasks easier Want support creating your own Bucket/Menu System? Join Stuck to Started and attend the “How to Keep Track of Everything on your Plate” Workshop on April 23rd Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Free training: Creating a Formula to Overcome Procrastination and Get Unstuck Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Starte d Read the blog version here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/026 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
025: Why to-do lists don’t work (especially for overwhelmed ADHDers) 21:54

8 weeks ago21:54

21:54

If you’ve ever stared at your never-ending to-do list, felt completely paralyzed, or ended the day feeling guilty about everything you didn’t finish, you’re not alone. To-do lists are supposed to help you stay organized, but what if they’re actually holding you back? In this episode, I’m breaking down why traditional to-do lists might not work for you. You’ll learn how to stop feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list and start using strategies that work with your brain, not against it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why traditional to-do lists don’t work for many people ✅ How vague tasks and unrealistic expectations create an overwhelming to-do list ✅ The real reason you struggle to prioritize and take action ✅ Simple strategies to make your to-do list actually work for you ✅ How to stop ending your day feeling guilty about what you didn’t finish Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Read the blog version here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/025 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
024: "Why can't I finish my to-do list?" 5 Tips to manage overwhelm as a perfectionist 21:39

9 weeks ago21:39

21:39

Do you ever end your day feeling like you didn’t get enough done, no matter how much you actually accomplished? In this episode, we’re diving into the reasons behind this all-too-common feeling, from impossible expectations to executive functioning challenges like time blindness and prioritization struggles. I share 5 practical strategies to help you shift your mindset, plan more effectively, and finally start giving yourself the credit you deserve. What You’ll Learn: Why our brains focus on what we didn’t do rather than what we did How perfectionism and all-or-nothing thinking contribute to overwhelm 5 actionable strategies to help you reality-check your to-do list and feel more accomplished Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Blog Version of the Podcast Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
023: How to pick the right strategies to navigate perfectionism, executive dysfunction, and ADHD paralysis 17:49

10 weeks ago17:49

17:49

Have you ever spent hours researching the perfect planner, rewriting an email 10 times before hitting send, or waiting for the right time to start a project? You might think it’s perfectionism , but what if it’s actually executive dysfunction ? In this episode, I break down how perfectionism and executive dysfunction overlap , why both can keep you stuck, and how to recognize what’s really holding you back. By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to identify whether it’s perfectionism, executive dysfunction, or both—and what to do next. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How perfectionism and executive dysfunction create a cycle of avoidance ✅ The difference between procrastination, perfectionism, and task paralysis ✅ How time blindness makes perfectionists wait for the perfect time ✅ Why searching for the “best” system can actually be procrastination ✅ A practical way to recognize what’s really keeping you stuck Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Read the blog version of this episode here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/023 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
022: Don't let perfectionism steal your joy: how to stop overthinking & take action as a perfectionist 17:27

11 weeks ago17:27

17:27

Is perfectionism keeping you from doing the things you WANT to do? I’m breaking down how perfectionism sneaks into your hobbies, creativity, and daily life, keeping you from experiencing full joy. By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to recognize where perfectionism is stealing your joy—and how to take back control with small, simple shifts. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The sneaky ways perfectionism holds you back from things that bring you joy ✅ Why perfectionists struggle with hobbies, creativity, and trying new things ✅ The difference between healthy standards vs. perfectionistic fear ✅ How to shift your mindset and stop waiting for the “perfect” time ✅ A simple challenge to help you start doing things just for fun Host: Sarah Lovell, Executive Function & ADHD Coach Resources Mentioned: Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast Join the ADHD Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Read the blog version of this episode here: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/022 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
021: How Perfectionism Leads to Procrastination & Strategies to Navigate the Discomfort of Starting Tasks 18:20

12 weeks ago18:20

18:20

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. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ 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 Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started 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 Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
020: The Perfectionism Trap—Why It Keeps You Stuck & What to do About It 21:12

13 weeks ago21:12

21:12

If you find yourself overthinking, overdoing, or avoiding things because of perfectionism - this episode is for you. I dive into what’s really hiding underneath perfectionism, how it leads to overthinking, avoidance, and burnout, and most importantly—how to shift your thinking. I also share a story about a circus unit in my middle school gym class that has stuck with me to this day. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ The hidden fears underneath perfectionism (and why they hold you back) ✔️ Why perfectionism and executive dysfunction create a cycle of overwhelm ✔️ The difference between striving for excellence vs. being trapped by perfectionism ✔️ How to adjust expectations without feeling like you’re "lowering your standards" ✔️ A simple mindset shift to stop overthinking and take action Resources Mentioned: Free training: Creating a Formula to Overcome Procrastination and Get Unstuck Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started Read the blog version of this episode: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast/020 Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
019: How to Take Action When You’re Overwhelmed & Don’t Know Where to Start 27:04

14 weeks ago27:04

27:04

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: Free training: Creating a Formula to Overcome Procrastination and Get Unstuck Coaching Membership: Stuck to Started 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 Mentioned in this episode: A Few Coaching Spots Just Opened – Grab Yours Now If you’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, now’s the time to shift. I’ve got limited one-on-one coaching spots open to help you build routines that work with your brain — no burnout, no shame. Book your free 45-minute discovery call at executivefunctioningfirst.com/coaching before they fill up! Coaching…

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

1
018: How to Break Free from ADHD Waiting Mode: 6 Practical Strategies 25:14

15 weeks ago25:14