ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Tracy talks about what a body double is and how it can help us get our work done. We're taught from childhood that if we need to get serious work done we must lock ourselves in a quiet room. Find out why this is likely not true for those of us with ADHD. Learn a counter-intuitive and effective method for those of us with ADHD to get our work done.Tracy shares ADHD coach's term "body double" which is a way that her clients successfully complete repetitive, boring tasks. You'll learn why those with ADHD may feel more focused by the presence of another person. You'll learn about the mirror neuron theory. You'll learn how balancing positive and negative energy may actually help us get things done. Learn why adding structure stimulates the brain and brings clarity and focus.Tracy outlines what a body double should do and not do and who is and isn't a great candidate for your body double. You'll also learn when it makes sense to consider a body double and when it doesn't.Tracy also shares strategies that work for her teenage son in getting his homework done as well as how she uses the body double concept to complete big, unpleasant projects around the house. Tracy then shares how members in her [group] use a body double, why it works for them and the various body double options. Tracy introduces her virtual body double Study Hall that is part of her free Facebook Group.Learn how a body double can:Help us activate and start a taskGenerate momentum and keep us goingProvide social interaction which can serve to motivate usProvide accountabilityProvide a clear intention that helps to focus the ADHD brainStop us from wandering off inside of our headsFinally, Tracy will share a hack for cleaning your house so you don't feel so alone and bored.Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Tracy reads non-fiction exclusively and hasn’t been an avid fiction reader since she was 12. She’s often wondered if those with ADHD read more non-fiction than fiction so she asked her of smart ADHD women.Here’s what Tracy covers: Do those with ADHD really have a preference for non-fiction, what are the reasons that might be so?, if you struggle with reading non-fiction books you might be interested in this hack to actually finish them. This feeling that many of us have that there’s never enough time to learn about everything we’re interested in.The character strengths that so many of us share which is apparent in our love of non-fiction books., how non-fiction books help us to make connections and generate new ideas, how audiobooks can help us when we lack focus, what to do when you’re afraid you’ll hyperfocus on a book and can’t stop reading until you’ve finished reading the book, do you read non-fiction for knowledge or recreation?, what about the women who only read fiction?, how do they feel about reading non-fiction?, what’s Katy’s hack for reading non-fiction, learning and remembering what you learn?Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tracy, a dynamic advocate for intelligent and positive ADHD women, dives deep into the concept of learned helplessness, revealing how brilliant minds can feel stuck. She explains Martin Seligman’s groundbreaking experiments and highlights the negative self-attributions that hinder progress. Tracy shares personal anecdotes and insights tailored for women navigating ADHD challenges, especially those undiagnosed for years. Listeners learn practical strategies to shift from a mindset of defeat to one of growth and resilience, empowering them to embrace their strengths.

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Tracy talks about giftedness and ADHD in this podcast. Learn what the term 2E or Twice Exceptional refers to and that just because you're gifted in one or more areas (for example mathematically or artistically) doesn't mean that you might not also be challenged in other areas (you may learn differently or have an emotional or social delay). Did you know that you can be gifted and have ADHD? Do you know that there is no one definition of giftedness? In fact, all states have a different definition.Tracy shares three layer cake definitions of giftedness:You'll learn about asynchronous developmentYou'll learn about perfectionism and how harmful it can beYou'll learn about the five areas where children can exhibit intense behaviors known as overexcitabilities or supersensitivitiesTracy outlines the overexcitabilities and shares that she never thought her son was gifted but is now wondering because he exhibits many traits in all five of these areas. Tracy also assumed that you can't be gifted if you struggle in school. Then she discovered AEGUS.Find out what else gifted people need to succeed and how giftedness and ADHD can look identical. Tracy talks about her concern that perhaps we're medicating bright children so that they can fit into the school environment when really these kids may just be unchallenged. She worries that it's the smart capable kids that fall through the cracks in our educational system because when they don't perform, teachers and parents automatically think it's because they're lazy.Have you ever wondered what it even means to be smart? Learn about Could it be that ADHD is connected to specific intelligences? Tracy then talks about what questions experts ask if they are working with a bright child who isn't applying themself and what she's planning to bring into her son's school to aid in his learning.______________Resources:Dabrowski's Overexcitabilities in GiftedSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Discover how exercise can serve as a powerful tool for those with ADHD, boosting focus and mood. Learn about Tracy's personal fitness journey and the surprising mental health benefits of regular activity. A compelling case study showcases how integrating physical education improves academic performance in schools. Explore the science behind exercise enhancing brain function, neurotransmitters, and even facilitating lifelong brain growth. It's not just about looking good; it's about feeling good and getting the mind in shape!

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Those of us with ADHD often struggle with time. We like to do things when we feel like it. We cannot see or feel time, and we’re easily distracted. Often, hyperfocus can get in our way as well. We start, can’t stop, and have to finish. We also struggle with working memory issues. What was I doing again? And I don’t know who doesn’t struggle with emotional regulation/dis-regulation – or the “I just don’t feel like it!” feeling. We must understand why we are the way we are in order to create hacks to be better. We must learn to pause, even though it’s against our nature because we are time optimists and often underestimate how long something will take.Hear Tracy’s tips for developing time management skills and planning more effectively for the future. See how Tracy uses the positive emotion of success to motivate her through the planning process. See how Backward Planning can teach you how to see and feel time, as well as set reasonable goals. Listen as Tracy shares some hacks for developing Executive Function Skills. How can we create practical methods to get through day-to-day tasks? Listen as Tracy explains how she taught herself to understand how long things take. You won’t want to miss the helpful tool she uses! Starting the day off right is important. Hear how Tracy sets herself up for success so she doesn’t run late every day- even if it means doing makeup in the car. Maybe playing a game of “beat the clock” is just what we need! You’ll definitely want to learn how to play this game that can change the way you get things done. Hear all of Tracy’s hacks and try them out on your own. Is the Apple Watch Worth It? Hear how Tracy uses it as her “manager.” What calendar may be best for you? Simple may be better! Could it be possible to manage your week on just one page? What is the and how can you use it in your daily life? Can working near others help you access your hyperfocus? Find out how Tracy can help you do this with a Body Double Meetup. What kind of person do you want to be? Hear how asking yourself this question can help you prioritize. You won’t want to mSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Tracy was inspired to talk about this topic from one of the members of her . She shared her story about always being late. Not intentionally, but because she doesn’t have a good grasp for how long things will take. When she made the effort to be on time (because it is important to her) it took every bit of her focus. “Why,” she asked, “is time so hard for me?” Here are Tracy’s insights about time in this part one episode. Why does the ADHD brain struggle with time? The first part is understanding why we do what we do. Once we understand why it can be easier to find work-arounds and resources. We’ll cover that in detail in part two in the next episode. You have to hear Tracy’s dating story about showing up late – and then being less than truthful about it. This was one of the experiences that helped her realize that time was an issue for her. The ADHD brain doesn’t have a good understanding of time. We don’t know how many minutes or hours a project can take. Find out why this skill is so hard for us. Cooking a meal and hosting guests is another example of how the lack of time-awareness can cause issues. Hear Tracy’s go-to solution and results. Hear what she learned when she decided to time herself on a few kitchen-related tasks. Hint: her estimate was much less than actual! Being on time is a value for Tracy. Is it a value for you? Tracy’s research on time explains that time has to be learned. Many ADHD people do not have a fluid awareness of time because we can’t see it or feel it. Find out why distractions can impact our best time-management strategies. Time issues are also related to memory issues. Tracy explains why they are linked and how one impacts the other.Tracy explains future myopia and how it impacts the ADHD person’s understanding of time. You’ll no doubt see yourself in this explanation. Arguing with time is a thing. Do you find yourself doing this? How do your beliefs impact your timeliness or lack of? Do your time-beliefs work for you? Recurring appointments, yes or no? Does putting everything on the calendar work for you? Tracy shares how asking forSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Entrepreneurs and those with ADHD have some undeniable similarities. But could ADHD itself be the secret to their success? Today, Tracy explores the similarities between entrepreneurs and those with ADHD. We will dive into some scientific evidence, as well as personal examples that show the differences in those with ADHD that make them perfect for being successful when pursuing their passion.Here are the key connections that Tracy makes between Entrepreneurs and those with ADHD. Listen to Tracy’s anecdote of the first business she ever started - an unsuccessful Christmas Card business in her childhood. It may give you a chuckle. Tracy’s entrepreneurial spirit spurred her on to even more endeavors in adulthood. Listen as Tracy explains the pros of entrepreneurialism - from new experiences, never being bored, learning more every day, etc. Tracy lists some ADHD characteristics that entrepreneurs all tend to share: hyperactivity, distractibility, and impulsivity. You won’t want to miss the statistics Tracy shares that show a stocking connection to ADHD and entrepreneurs. Hear Tracy explain how those with ADHD are “leftover hunters in a farmer driven world.” Listen as Tracy shares how the resilience of those with ADHD helps them weather the storms they will face in their entrepreneurial ventures. Hear how it all may boil down to biology and neurological responses to our environment.Tracy explores impulsivity from a scientific standpoint and links it to intuition and impatience/boredom. Tracy also explains how those with ADHD use intuitive decision making, proactiveness, and risk-taking to succeed. Entrepreneurs and those with ADHD often love flexibility and love being their own boss. Hear how Tracy explains this from a personal perspective and a scientific point of view. Find out why acting and seeking novelty are traits that explain the entrepreneurial brain. Hear how she explains how creativity is impulsivity “gone right.” Tracy explains “Hyperfocus” and how it is the key to success for entrepreneurs. You won’t want to miss the evidence she shares that it is Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___We have executive functions that help us in life. They help us organize, plan and control our life so it’s manageable. It’s how we can take care of ourselves and get things done. Most of us with ADHD have trouble with one or more of the six executive functions.Today, I am talking about the executive function that involves emotion. It’s what helps us manage frustration and it gives us the ability to regulate our emotions. Here are the key elements Tracy has learned when dealing with emotions and situations that can become emotional.Tracy explains emotional dysregulation and how it shows up and how it impacts us. How does stress impact our emotions and how do recognize it in ourselves and in others? Tracy shares how perfectionism and time management affect her emotions and how she’s learned to work around these situations. Intensity is a big part of ADHD and it’s a big part of managing emotions as well. Tracy’s experience with the Apple watch, and how it’s helped her be able to cook again! What can you do when emotional intensity comes up? Listen for some go-to solutions that can help you manage or even remove an emotionally charged situation. You can choose.Tracy shares that awareness is separate from emotion and thought. How to identify and name what is causing the emotion and doing this exercise can help. Don’t miss Tracy’s bull frog story. It’ll make you smile. Why allowing ourselves to feel the feelings can ultimately help you eliminate the feeling. If you want different results, you need to change your behavior. Emotions don’t always lead to a behavior; sometimes it’s the opposite. Self-control is a neurobiological trait. It requires the ability to have hind-sight and fore-sight and the ability to wait. Understanding how this impacts behavior is key to managing emotions. , Psychotherapist gave us great tips you’ll find helpful.Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Tracy shares her experience with medication for her son and herself. When my son was diagnosed medication was the only thing recommended which didn’t feel right to us. Today we’re talking medications and my personal insights about how they worked (or didn’t work) for us. I hope it’s helpful for you as you navigate the prescription roller coaster.Here are a few highlights from this episode: Tracy shares her extensive list of medications that were prescribed. Side effects and how they impacted me. Testing options and why it might help your Dr. prescribe meds that may work better and have fewer side effects. My son’s experience with medication. His feedback and what I noticed weren’t the same, but we both came to the same conclusion. I found Dr. Dale Archer’s information helpful. You may appreciate his insights as well. Why a medicated “new normal” may not be right for you or your child and how to recognize it. The worst-case scenario, and why you have to be proactive. Why your family Dr. may not understand your ADHD and where they get their info. Hint: It’s not in medical school. What we don’t know about these medications especially the long-term effects for the ADHD brain. Why ADHD people do well in the military; an unexpected benefit of structure. Are we medicating our uniqueness? Is that a good idea?Tracy shares a real-life story of a woman’s before and after experience with medication. When medication for routine can help and when it can hurt. Tracy’s Rx for medication. She breaks down multiple options separate from medication and useful tips for getting the right medication for you.______________Resources:Facebook Group: ADHD for Smart Ass WomenThe ADHD Advantage: What You Thought Was a Diagnosis May Be Your Greatest StrengthSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shiftInstead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academyLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book2 Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com