Impulsive? Same. Here's What Helps!

ADHD-Friendly Tips That Actually Work

You might not know this about me, but I identify as a minimalist.

I don’t like clutter, and I don’t like having too much stuff.

Take our camper, for example. Most camper owners just buy a second set of kitchen stuff and leave it in there year-round. Not me. Noooope. The thought of buying extra cutlery and pots only to use them a few times a year? That makes me craaaazy in the coconut.

Instead, we empty out our apartment kitchen every time we go on a trip. Yes, it takes way longer to pack. But I actually use my stuff, and I like it that way.

That said, I do struggle with impulsivity. Especially when it comes to craft supplies and interior decoration. Shops like Action, Flying Tiger, Hema and Søstrene Grene are the death of me.

I mean, have you seen Flying Tiger’s new Lemon kitchen series?!?!

But overall, I manage my impulses pretty well. I think I can say it’s actually become one of my least annoying ‘ADHD symptoms!’.

If you’re struggling with resisting impulse buys, here are a few ADHD-friendly tips that have genuinely helped me!

Add it to Your Online Cart… and Walk Away

This is like my number one trick. I love online window shopping. I see something I like, I add it to my basket, and after a while, I get bored and close the tab. Do not, I repeat, do not get your card out!!

Just give yourself at least 24 hours, or preferably a week or so, and chances are you’ll realise you don’t actually want it, you just wanted the dopamine hit of buying.

Give Yourself a Budget and Only Use Cash

Cash is tangible. You get to hold it in your hands, and when spending, you literally feel the money slipping through your fingers. It will give you a moment to think about the thing you’re buying. Do I really want to spend my last €20 on this new set of alcohol markers?

One In - One Out

If you want to buy something new, you first need to get rid of something old. I LOVE decluttering (yes, call me crazy), and so whenever I feel the need to buy new stuff, I go around my apartment looking for things that have reached the end of their lifetime with me.

I always have a donation box in my basement, and we go to the local thrift shop a few times a year. I love the feeling of getting rid of unwanted objects. I always feel so much lighter after.

And it makes room for new things!

Envision it in Your Home

Before buying that gorgeous side table, imagine where it will go. I’m addicted to buying storage baskets, but as a minimalist, I often have nothing to put in them. So whenever I see one I can’t resist, I need to figure out what it’s gonna hold before buying.

Ask yourself if you have enough room to put it and if you’re gonna use it.

I really love the idea of having a glass lemonade stand with like a tap for in the garden. But I know I will never use it—too much hassle for my ADHD brain.

Can You Find it Second-Hand?

Instead of going to your favourite online shop and adding it to your cart, try looking for it second-hand. The whole process of searching can actually give you the same dopamine as buying the actual thing. But this way you saved some money.

And if you still really want it AND you can find it second-hand, it’s a win-win!

This isn’t about being perfect.

Once in a while, I still give in to my impulsivity and buy things I don't need or don't use. Or clothes that I don't wear because they looked so good in the store, but actually the fabric isn't comfy, so it doesn't work. (But then there is Vinted, where you can sell your clothes!)

It's about giving your brain time to think before you buy.

And soon you'll manage your impulsivity like a pro, so you can spend all that time dealing with your other ADHD traits, yay!!

P.S. I’m testing a new support offer

If you’re a multipassionate creative woman who’s stuck, doubting yourself, or struggling to overcome your fears, this might be for you.

It’s called Idea-to-Action Sessions: 1-on-1 support through email and voice notes. No Zoom calls and no tech issues. No awkward introductions, time pressure or feeling like you’re wasting time by talking about your vacation because that’s just how you are.

I’m opening up three spots at an introductory rate of €33 (the regular price will be €48 after this). Click the button below to get more info!

DM me if you have questions or want to book at the introductory rate!