E276: The Real Reason You’re Always Running Late

Are you running late before you even start getting ready? That’s time blindness at work, mama. And wow, does it make everyday life harder! In this episode, I’m sharing the real talk from conversations with two different coaching clients this week about how ADHD brains process time—and why “it’s time to go” means something totally different for us than it does for people who are naturally on time. Walking out the door isn’t one task; it’s a whole project. From shoes and water bottles to wrangling kids and finding the missing lunchbox, no wonder we’re always scrambling. Here’s the shift: it’s not about fixing yourself or forcing your brain to work like everyone else’s. It’s about figuring out how your ADHD brain actually works and using that knowledge as the key to the puzzle. Once you see the pattern, you can set up systems that work with your brain, not against it. I’ll walk you through how to break down “leaving the house” into actual steps, estimate how long it really takes, and give yourself the buffer time you need. This isn’t about rushing or becoming a morning person – it’s about giving yourself space to breathe and creating a rhythm that makes sense for you. Want a simple way to stop living in reactive “emergency mode”? Download my free Secrets for Overcoming Time Blindness at patriciasung.com/monthahead. In just 15 minutes, you can make major headway on avoiding crises, and feel like you’ve got your life together. You’re carrying a lot, and you’re doing better than you think. Let’s make space for mornings that feel calmer and less like a fire drill. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-276-real-reason-you-are-running-late-adhd Links mentioned in this episode: I’m still trucking along, writing the first book for Moms with ADHD, publishing February 2027. Keep up to date on all things book writing and/or join the beta reader team here: patriciasung.com/book.

Meet my friend Crystal Haitsma, host of the Parenting Coach Podcast. In this episode, Crystal and I dive into an honest conversation about balancing motherhood, parenting, and constant to-do lists with a neurodiverse brain. Crystal, The Parenting Coach, is a Certified Life Coach and Canadian homeschooling mama who just got back from travelling the world with her family of 6. She combines her background in Psychology with helpful coaching tools, to help moms and couples with shame-free, connection-based parenting (aka ditching the 1980s parenting style, and adding in a hefty dose of connection and presence).  She hosts The Parenting Coach Podcast where she shares helpful parenting tools and support each week. Be sure to subscribe to the Parenting Coach Podcast!  Crystal’s website. Crystal’s instagram. Find our episode details here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s09-09-adhd-in-motherhood-with-patricia-sung/id1555361139?i=1000672013755 Welcome to the Best Of Friends Series, where you are meeting a few of my friends in the podcast community. While I’m writing the first book for Moms with ADHD, coming February 2027, I’m sharing interviews that I have done on friends’ podcasts. Not only do you get a new episode, I hope that you’ll find a few shows to add to your podcast queue. Keep up to date on all things book writing and/or join the beta reader team here: patriciasung.com/book. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-275-adhd-in-motherhood-with-parenting-coach-crystal-haitsma. If you’re wondering whether you have ADHD and want to better understand the signs, grab my free ADHD Symptoms in Women Checklist here: patriciasung.com/adhd-symptoms.

Have you ever wondered if you’re doing enough to support your ADHD child? Or maybe you’ve questioned if what you’re trying is even working. You’re not the only one. When I saw that last year’s most downloaded episode was about supporting your ADHD child, I knew I wanted to share this conversation from 2022 with you! In this episode, I’m sharing a Q&A session from when I was a guest expert in the Mothers Together community, for parents of neurodivergent children. The moms in Megan’s community share vulnerable and raw struggles that I know you’ll relate to. We dive into some of the most common struggles moms face when raising ADHD kids: school challenges, emotional regulation, should your child try medication (especially when you’re worried about them not gaining weight), and that exhausting cycle of wondering, “Am I messing this up?” You’ll hear encouragement, practical strategies, and lots of validation from a real conversation with moms who get it. Because sometimes the most powerful thing isn’t a new parenting hack – it’s gaining a new perspective or realizing you’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Check out Megan’s podcast and online community here: https://www.ontheharddays.com/ If you’re wondering whether you have ADHD and want to better understand the signs, grab my free ADHD Symptoms in Women Checklist here: patriciasung.com/adhd-symptoms. This episode is a little peek into the kind of support I love to provide as an ADHD educator. I hope it gives you a fresh perspective and a sense of relief that you’re doing better than you think. Yes, I’m still writing the first book for Moms with ADHD, publishing February 2027. Keep up to date on all things book writing and/or join the beta reader team here: patriciasung.com/book Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-274-how-to-support-your-adhd-child-mothers-together-questions-with-megan-champion TODAY IS THE LAST DAY TO GET YOUR RETREAT TICKET!  Ready to get away? Our annual ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is coming up October 10-12, 2025 in Houston, Texas! You're officially invited :) “Gift yourself the opportunity to meet like-minded people (literally), make instant friendships, and the space to finally be yourself.”  –ADHD Mama T.H. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy.  Because you deserve to take care of yourself too. Get your all-inclusive ticket TODAY: patriciasung.com/retreat

Do you feel like you're already running on fumes – and it’s barely breakfast time? You’re not alone. In this conversation from the Happy Mom Summit, I talk with JoAnn Crohn of the No Guilt Mom Podcast about what really drains our energy as ADHD moms – and how to recharge in realistic, doable ways. Spoiler alert: it’s not about naps and bubble baths (unless you love those). It’s about understanding your own patterns, recognizing the difference between physical, mental, and emotional energy, and creating a rhythm that actually works for your brain. We also dig into how ADHD makes energy management trickier, why asking for help feels so hard (but matters so much), and how to tell the difference between when you need to push through… and when you need to rest. Plus, I share more about my Energy Recharge Workshop, and why it's one of my favorite ways to help you find your spark again. This episode is your permission slip to stop chasing those unicorn days, and start making peace with what realistically works for you. You are not a robot. Let’s give ourselves some grace. Thank you to JoAnn for sharing this conversation! Listen to the No Guilt Mom Podcast here or on your favorite podcast app: https://www.noguiltmom.com/ Yes, I’m still writing the first book for Moms with ADHD, publishing February 2027. Keep up to date on all things book writing and/or join the beta reader team here: patriciasung.com/book Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-273-adhd-energy-management-for-moms-managing-your-daily-energy-levels-with-joann-crohn-happy-mom-summit Links mentioned in this episode: Get the ADHD Energy Recharge Workshop: patriciasung.com/energy You’re not alone. “This is a chance to invest in yourself and build a community that will empower your future. Worth it!” –ADHD Mama D.B. Our annual all-inclusive ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is coming up October 10-12, 2025 just outside of Houston, Texas! And we hope you’re coming, too!  I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Having a circle of moms who support you and believe in you matters. Reserve your all-inclusive ticket here: patriciasung.com/retreat Ticket sales close 9/18/25 or when the last ticket is sold.

You start the day with good intentions. “This afternoon, I’m going to drop off this return real quick.” But then you can’t find the box. Or the tape. And now your printer is out of ink. Suddenly, the whole day’s gone, and the box is still sitting by the door. Sound familiar? In this episode—recorded from my car in full chauffeur-mom mode—I’m breaking down why your ADHD brain struggles to finish simple tasks. Spoiler: it’s not because you’re lazy. It’s because what looks like one small task is actually a full project with multiple steps... and no one told us that. I’ll walk you through the three phases of any project (even the “easy” ones): deciding, preparing, and doing. And more importantly, how recognizing those steps can save your time, your energy, and your self-esteem. If you’ve ever beat yourself up over why that return never made it to the post office, this one’s for you. You’re not lazy. Your brain just needs a different approach. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-272-you-are-not-lazy-adhd-why-you-do-not-finish-simple-easy-tasks Links mentioned in this episode: Wanna hear the scoop on what’s going on behind the scenes? Snag a free ADHD resource and sign up for my emails here. You deserve a break. Our annual ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is soon, October 10-12, 2025 in Houston, Texas! You're officially invited :) “Gift yourself the opportunity to meet like-minded people (literally), make instant friendships, and the space to finally be yourself.”  –ADHD Mama T.H. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy.  Because you deserve to take care of yourself too. Grab your all-inclusive ticket here: patriciasung.com/retreat

Watching your child struggle is pretty much the worst. Not knowing what to do about it is more than icing on the doo-doo cake. I've got your back, mama! In this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, I dive into the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges of parenting a struggling child. When your child needs help, but you don’t know where to begin, this episode is for you. From dealing with overwhelming chaos to understanding the unique dynamics in a family affected by ADHD, here are my key tips to help you navigate the stress. So, buckle up, mama, because we're about to unpack the struggle bus and turn it into the ambulance you need for support during a crisis. In this episode, I’m sharing the five essential C's for helping your struggling child. First up, we zoom in on crisis management and understanding what’s on fire before taking action. Then, we delve into the critical aspect of self-care for moms because, let's be honest, we can't pour from an empty unicorn mug. We also explore caring for our kids, making sure they find their own spaces to shine and thrive. Plus, we emphasize the importance of building strong connections and boosting our kids' confidence, because every little victory matters. So, put on your driving gloves, grab a cup (or 40 oz travel mug) of coffee, and get ready to drive into a world of empathy, support, and practical advice on nurturing your struggling child. Because among the chaos, you're already a fantastic mom who’s trying her best, and you're not alone in this bumpy journey. ***Note: This episode originally aired in March of 2024. As I write my book on Motherhood in ADHD while my boys are at home all summer (send prayers and patience), I'm sharing past episodes that topped the charts last year. I know these episodes will support you with some integral skills for ADHD and lots of virtual hugs. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-271-kid-struggling-with-adhd-how-to-help-adhd-child-in-crisis Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 120: 4 Things You Should Do To Prepare for Your ADHD Diagnosis Appointment: Taking the fear out of this intimidating and scary step: Q+A Session Episode 158: Symptoms of Inattentive ADHD or Just Your Quirky Personality: What does Adult ADHD look like in women? Free ADHD resource: Get my ADHD Symptoms Checklist here Super stressed and need a break? Come along on our 4th annual ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat, October 10-12, 2025 in the Texas countryside, located at the Happy Goat Retreat! “Honestly, this was one the best weekends I've had since becoming a mom. I've never felt so seen and understood. I would hop on a plane and go again. No hesitation! I'll follow y’all anywhere, moms.” –ADHD Mama J.Q. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. I take care of you while you learn how to take even better care of yourself, in a way that’s sustainable for real momlife. Because you can take care of your family well when you’re in a healthy place. It’s time to get your ticket: www.patriciasung.com/retreat

Ever feel like if you say no to a good opportunity, you’ll regret it forever? Like the next big thing is right around the corner... and you’ll miss it if you stop moving? I’ve been there. Saying no is hard, especially when your ADHD brain loves chasing shiny new ideas. In this episode, I’m sharing a clip from my friend Jacki Hayes’ podcast where I answered, “What’s the biggest business lesson you’ve learned lately?” And spoiler alert: it wasn’t about business strategy. It was about letting go—of plans, of good ideas, of the fear that saying no means missing out. You’ll hear why I closed something I loved, how I made peace with doing less, and what happens when you create space for what truly matters. And if your brain, like mine, struggles with feeling like every season is forever... this one’s for you. Come take a deep breath with me. You’re not falling behind when you say no—you’re making space for what’s next. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-270-saying-no-and-not-missing-out Links mentioned in this episode: Jacki’s podcast: Here’s What I Learned Super stressed and need a break? We’re learning more about trusting and loving yourself after years of feeling like you don't quite fit the expectations at our annual ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat, October 10-12, 2025, just outside of Houston, Texas! “Honestly, this was one the best weekends I've had since becoming a mom. I've never felt so seen and understood. I would hop on a plane and go again. No hesitation! I'll follow y’all anywhere, moms.” –ADHD Mama J.Q. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. I take care of you while you learn how to take even better care of yourself, in a way that’s sustainable for real momlife. Because you can take care of your family when you’re in a healthy place. Because you can take care of your family when you’re in a healthy place. Get your all-inclusive ticket here: https://www.patriciasung.com/retreat

Do you ever feel like an emotional sponge, absorbing the feelings of others around you? Especially when you’re with someone you care about? Especially when you’re in certain parts of your cycle? Extra especially when they are agitated, frustrated, angry, or anxious?   In this episode, we dive deep into understanding emotional regulation, stress management, and the unique challenges faced by moms with ADHD. From absorbing everyone else's emotions to navigating the stress ladder, we'll explore the struggles and I’ll offer practical strategies for finding balance and grace in the midst of the storm.  You CAN learn to hear your own signals and trust them, as well as build your stress tolerance to help you regulate during the day, in spite of the rest of your and your family’s stressors! And once you know how, you can teach your kids how to increase their stress tolerance, too. ***Note: This episode originally aired in April of 2024. As I write my book on Motherhood in ADHD while my boys are at home all summer (send prayers and patience), I'm sharing past episodes that topped the charts last year. I know these episodes will support you with some integral skills for ADHD and lots of virtual hugs. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-269-adhd-adult-tantrum-meltdown Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 183: More Than Chore Charts: How to use visual communication to connect with your ADHD child and yourself, even if you're not creative with Laura Matteson  More episodes on Emotional Regulation: Episode 72: Emotional Regulation, Executive Function and ADHD Episode 73: Self Regulation, Executive Function and ADHD Episode 102: Emotional Regulation and Support for Overwhelmed Parents with Adult ADHD with Dr. Edward Hallowell Episode 175: Exit the Emotional Rollercoaster: How to Help Your ADHD Child Build Their Emotional Regulation Skills with Dr. Carrie Jackson Episode 182: How I Overcame RSD and Saved My Marriage (and stopped being a yelling, angry mom) Episode 205: Emotional Sponges: How to Stop Absorbing Other People's Feelings by Defining Your Boundaries and Building Your Emotional Regulation Tools - A Behind the Scenes Look into my Small Group ADHD Coaching Program Lighthouse You’re not alone. “This is a chance to invest in yourself and build a community that will empower your future. Worth it!” –ADHD Mama D.B. Our annual all-inclusive ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is coming up October 10-12, 2025 just outside of Houston, Texas! And we hope you’re coming, too!  I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Put it on your calendar now. There are just a few tickets left, so get yours now. Having a circle of moms who support you and believe in you matters. Register for your all-inclusive ticket here: https://www.patriciasung.com/retreat

Ten weeks. Fifty-five thousand words to go. One big, messy dream.  I'm officially writing a book, and I’m on a serious countdown. But let’s be real, life isn’t made up of word counts and deadlines. This season is stretching me in ways I didn’t expect, and I’m reminded (again) how hard it is for me to ask for help. So I’m uncomfortably practicing that skill. In this episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes reality of what it looks like to chase a giant goal as a mom with ADHD. From reworking my timeline and outsourcing laundry to crying on the front curb, this story gets personal. You'll hear how a season of grief, a loving husband, and a research fund created ripple effects that showed up in the most unexpected way over 20 years later.  We often don’t get to see how it all comes together, but this week I got a glimmer of hope and encouragement. If you’ve ever questioned whether your hard season means anything… this one’s for you. You don’t need a book deal to matter. Your efforts, your tears, your small wins, they all count. Need some hope today? Come sit with me in the mess. Let’s find the meaning together. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-268-this-season-is-hard-tears-not-wasted Free ADHD Resource: How to Manage Your ADHD Beyond Medication You’re not alone. “This is a chance to invest in yourself and build a community that will empower your future. Worth it!” –ADHD Mama D.B. Our annual all-inclusive ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is coming up October 10-12, 2025 just outside of Houston, Texas! And we hope you’re coming, too! I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Put it on your calendar now. Having a circle of moms who support you and believe in you matters. Register for your all-inclusive ticket here: https://www.patriciasung.com/retreat

What “should” you have done already?   Finish your degree?  Pass your driver’s license test?  Make that doctor’s appt?  Left the house for school pickup? If you’re constantly thinking “I’m behind!”, this episode is for you. Often it’s literal, as in, “I’m 20 minutes late to my appointment!” But it’s also in the big things, like you “should” have more kids by now or gotten that promotion.  You’re not alone! Feeling behind has come up in several discussions recently both in Group Coaching, and in writing my book. What are the patterns showing up in this pervasive problem among women with ADHD? Here’s how to move forward both logistically and mentally. ***Note: This episode originally aired in April of 2024. As I write my book on Motherhood in ADHD while my boys are at home all summer (send prayers and patience), I'm sharing past episodes that topped the charts last year. I know these episodes will support you with some integral skills for ADHD and lots of virtual hugs. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-267-four-reasons-why-you-feel-behind It’s time to take care of you, mama: A whole weekend for you to relax and get away from all your weighty responsibilities, to understand your ADHD mind in community with moms who get it.  Picture it: You, me, and 13 other ADHD mamas hanging out all weekend with plenty of acres and your very own adorable tiny home for you to enjoy the peace and quiet, too. Time to relax! Get your ticket now for the 4th annual ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat on October 10-12, 2025, and I’ll take care of everything once you arrive! https://www.patriciasung.com/retreat