I Think I Forgot To Remember Something...

You know, some weeks are just ADD weeks. Those of you who have ADD know exactly what I mean. I was going to review a book I’ve been reading called Moms with ADD, but being my usual disorganized self, I seem to have misplaced it. I also misplaced my keys, my car (I found it – parked right where I left it, but who can remember details about parking?), and I am currently wondering where I put a check I need to get to the bank tomorrow morning.

I have a friend who is going through a stressful time and she has just begun to forget things and misplace things. She said the other day, “I can’t go on like this forever!” My reply? “You get used to it. You are experiencing my regular, everyday life.” She said she really would hate to have to deal with that. I just shrugged – it’s just life as I know it.

So, how does the average ADDer survive forgetfulness? I don’t know if there is such a thing as an “average ADDer”, but here are some coping skills I’ve developed over the years. Maybe they’ll help you, too.

1. Write everything down – don’t rely on your memory. 2. Have a notebook that you carry in your pocket or purse at all times. This is your lifeline – realize that it is very important not to lose it – it is as valuable as money! 3. As soon as possible, enter information you want to keep into your computer. I even scan documents, articles, etc. that are important to me – it’s easier to keep up with there than on paper. Of course, sometimes I forget what folder things are in, but that’s another story. 4. Use tools available to you – the computer, personal organizer, calendars, etc. Find what works best for you and use it. 5. Get someone to help you organize. ADDers have a hard time prioritizing – this includes papers as well as projects. Someone who is good at organizing can help you make sense of some of it. (If things are organized you can find them easier later – of course, there is the problem of filing things back where you found them. 6. Have your children or a friend remind you of important events several times. 7. Put a message on your answering machine to remind you of important (or even unimportant) things. The blinking light is a great visual reminder!

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