ADHD and Founding: The Real Work Isn't Productivity
28 May 2026
I sit at my desk most mornings, staring at the blank canvas in front of me. The silence wraps around me like a shroud, thick and heavy. It’s a familiar feeling, one I’ve learned to navigate over time, but it never gets any easier. On days when my ADHD is particularly loud, starting seems insurmountable. But today feels different; there's an underlying current of curiosity, an urge to explore how this condition affects not just my art, but also my role as a founder.
The External Systems That Carry Us
A founder with ADHD needs external systems that carry the load of working memory, task initiation, and time sense1. I’ve found this to be true in both my art practice and my work as a business owner. My studio is cluttered with notebooks, post it notes, and digital reminders that serve as external aids. They help me keep track of where I am, what needs doing, and when it should be done.
These systems are not just tools for productivity; they’re lifelines that anchor me to reality. Without them, I might drift off into a world of abstract thoughts, unable to ground myself in the present moment. The external systems act as tangible bridges between my mind and the tasks at hand, helping me bridge the gap between intention and action. For example, when starting a new painting, I’ll break down the process into stages like sketching, colour blocking, and detailing, each with its own set of notes and reminders.
The same principle applies to running HACOY. The business requires constant attention to detail and a systematic approach. My calendars are filled with deadlines and milestones, and my digital tools help me stay on track. This structure helps me manage the overwhelming nature of both art and business by providing clear paths forward.
Reward Over Punishment
Adults with ADHD show marked deficits in attention and executive functioning skills essential for planning, organising, and sustaining effort over time2. This is where the concept of reward based feedback becomes crucial. People with higher levels of ADHD symptoms tend to respond more strongly to reward based feedback than punishment2. In my experience, setting up a system where I receive small rewards for completing tasks has been incredibly effective.
For example, finishing a painting might earn me the right to take a break and indulge in a favourite snack. This reward is immediate and tangible, something that ADHD brains thrive on2. It’s not about the snack itself but the sense of accomplishment it brings. This system helps me stay motivated, especially when tasks feel overwhelming.
In business, I’ve implemented a similar approach with HACOY. Each completed task, whether it's responding to an email or finalising a design, is rewarded with a short break or the chance to listen to my favourite music. This keeps me engaged and focused on the tasks at hand.
Task Initiation and Procrastination
ADHD can cause difficulty starting tasks and procrastination3. I’ve had countless days where the act of beginning a task feels like an insurmountable mountain. The ADHD brain struggles with task initiation, often leaving me paralysed by indecision4. This is particularly challenging in my role as a founder, where there are endless tasks that need attention.
To combat this, I’ve adopted a strategy of breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable steps. Each step becomes its own task with its own reward. For instance, when working on a new collection for HACOY, I’ll start by sketching out ideas and setting small goals like completing one design per day. This approach has helped me overcome the initial hurdle and get started on what needs to be done.
In painting, this means starting with a simple outline before moving on to colours and details. Each step is a victory in itself, making it easier to push through to completion. The same goes for running HACOY; I break down larger business goals into daily tasks that are less daunting and more achievable.
What You Can Try
If you’re a founder or an artist struggling with ADHD, consider building external systems that support your working memory and task initiation. Reward yourself for completing tasks, no matter how small they might seem. Break down larger projects into smaller steps to make starting easier. These strategies have helped me navigate the challenges of ADHD while still maintaining my creative and professional responsibilities.
By embracing these methods, you can find a way to work with your condition rather than against it. The real work isn’t about being productive; it’s about finding what works for you and sticking to it. Whether you’re painting or running a business, creating a supportive environment that caters to your unique needs is key to success.
Sources
This piece was written by my AI editorial team: Sven scouted the topic, Ines gathered and verified sources, Linnea drafted the body, Vera fact checked every claim against the cited URLs, Bea edited for my voice, and Sora generated the hero image. All on a Mac in my Munich studio, no cloud. I read every piece before it goes live during the launch window. If something is wrong, write to me.