Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be both exhilarating and exhausting. One of the most intriguing yet challenging aspects of ADHD is the concept of “out of sight, out of mind.” This characteristic can impact daily life in ways that others might not easily understand. In this blog, we’ll explore what “out of sight, out of mind” means for those with ADHD, how it affects various aspects of life, and some strategies to work around it.

What Does “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” Mean?

“Out of sight, out of mind” is a common trait among people with ADHD. It refers to the tendency to forget about things that aren’t immediately visible or in front of you. This can apply to tasks, objects, appointments, or even relationships. If something isn’t in your direct line of sight, it can quickly fade from your thoughts, leading to forgetfulness and unintentional neglect.

How It Affects Daily Life

1. Forgetting Tasks and Deadlines

With ADHD, keeping track of tasks and deadlines can be a constant challenge. If a to-do list or calendar isn’t frequently checked, it’s easy for important dates to slip through the cracks. This can result in missed appointments, unpaid bills, or incomplete work.

2. Losing or Misplacing Items

Misplacing things is a common issue for people with ADHD. Items that aren’t kept in a consistent spot or aren’t frequently used can be easily forgotten. This can lead to frantic searches for keys, wallets, phones, or other essentials.

3. Relationships and Social Connections

“Out of sight, out of mind” can also impact relationships. If a friend or family member isn’t frequently in contact or within close proximity, they may be unintentionally forgotten. This can cause strain in relationships and leave loved ones feeling neglected.

Strategies to Cope with “Out of Sight, Out of Mind”

While “out of sight, out of mind” can be challenging, there are strategies to help manage this aspect of ADHD.

1. Visual Reminders

Use visual reminders to keep important tasks and dates in sight. This could include sticky notes, whiteboards, or smartphone reminders. Place them in prominent locations, such as near your workspace or on the refrigerator, to ensure they’re always visible.

2. Consistent Organisation

Create designated spaces for essential items. For example, always place your keys in a specific bowl or hook when you enter your home. This consistency can reduce the chances of misplacing items.

3. Regular Check-Ins

Schedule regular check-ins with friends and family to maintain relationships. Set aside specific times for phone calls, video chats, or face-to-face visits to ensure you’re staying connected.

4. Task Management Apps

Utilize task management apps that provide notifications and reminders. Apps like Todoist, Trello, or Microsoft To-Do can help keep tasks organized and send you alerts when deadlines approach.

5. Delegate and Seek Support

If possible, delegate tasks or seek support from others to help you stay on track. This could be as simple as asking a friend to remind you about an upcoming event or working with a professional organiser to create an effective system.

Conclusion

“Out of sight, out of mind” is a common and sometimes frustrating aspect of ADHD, but it’s not insurmountable. By understanding this trait and implementing strategies to work around it, you can navigate daily life more effectively. Remember, ADHD is a complex condition, and everyone’s experience is unique. If you’re struggling, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or ADHD coach to develop personalised coping strategies. Ultimately, embracing the quirks and finding ways to thrive is the key to living well with ADHD.