ADHD Triggers: The Hidden Saboteurs (and How to Outsmart Them for Good!)

Identify, Neutralize, and Outsmart the Distractions That Derail Your Day

Every ADHD journey is filled with hidden saboteurs—those triggers that can turn a good day into chaos in seconds. Maybe it’s a cluttered desk, a stressful meeting, a sugary snack, or a draining conversation. The first step in reclaiming your focus is to identify these triggers and outsmart them before they strike.

Peter Shankman’s book, along with leading ADHD experts, teaches that triggers are highly individual. What derails one person may not affect another. The key is self-awareness: pay attention to the situations, people, or habits that consistently throw you off course. Once you know your triggers, you can plan around them. Sometimes, the best move is to walk away—like the wise cat who simply leaves the room when chaos erupts. Other times, preparation and boundaries are your best defense: decluttering your space, setting up reminders, or scheduling breaks before tough tasks.

Accountability partners, digital tools, and positive routines can also help you stay on track. Remember: triggers will never disappear completely, but with practice, you can spot them early and respond with intention, not impulse. Every time you manage a trigger, you reinforce your ability to thrive, no matter what life throws your way.

References: ADDitude Magazine, Deepwrk, Peter Shankman’s “Faster Than Normal”