As someone with ADHD, I know the thrill of an emergency. The urgency sparks dopamine, making my brain feel fully alive and engaged. But I also know the inevitable crash that follows and how vital routines and systems are for navigating those highs and lows.

When the Palisades Fire evacuation alert came, my partner and I quickly gathered our essentials—dogs, clothes, and important papers—and sought refuge with friends. In the moment, my brain thrived on the chaos, driven by the urgency to act. But once the adrenaline wore off, I hit a mental wall. Without my familiar routines or reliable systems, I struggled to function, let alone get back to work.

This experience reminded me of an important truth: emergencies may light up our ADHD brains, but it’s the steadiness of routines that helps us recover and move forward.

If you’re struggling to get started or find it difficult to switch tasks, you may be struggling with transitions! Whether moving from wakefulness to sleep, leaving the house, or simply switching to a different activity, our brains need motivation to move towards an action or goal. These transitions, though seemingly simple, involve a complex interplay of mental and emotional adjustments. Transition rituals may help you create smoother and more manageable days and ultimately enhance your overall productivity and well-being.

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