Use a fidget toy

Picture this: It’s a Wednesday afternoon and you’re sitting at your desk, trying to focus on an important project. Your mind is racing, your leg is bouncing, and you’re fighting the urge to check your phone for the hundredth time. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone – and a fidget toy might be just what the doctor ordered.

As someone who’s been there (hello, fellow ADHD brain!), I can tell you that these little gadgets can be game changers for helping maintain focus and boosting productivity. Whether you’re a tapper, a doodler, a nail-biter, a pen-clicker or a skin-picker (or just someone whose hands prefer to always be doing something), let’s explore the world of fidget toys and how they can help ADHD entrepreneurs thrive in the workplace.

What are fidget toys, and why are they helpful?

Fidget toys are usually small, handheld objects designed to keep your hands busy and provide sensory stimulation. They come in various shapes, sizes, and textures, from the classic fidget spinner to more discreet options like stress balls or fidget rings.

But why are these seemingly simple objects so helpful for people with ADHD? Well, it turns out that many of us have an increased need for sensory input and physical movement. By giving our hands something to do, fidget toys can help satisfy that craving for stimulation without distracting us from the task at hand.

As Dr. Julie Schweitzer, a professor of psychiatry at UC Davis, puts it: “For some people with ADHD, these objects can act as a ‘cognitive anchor,’ allowing the brain to filter out extraneous sensory information and focus on the important stuff.”

In other words, fidgeting can actually help us concentrate better. It’s like giving the needy part of your brain a little side project to keep it entertained while you tackle the main event.

Fidget toys in the workplace

If you work in an office, or around others, you might be thinking, “That’s great, but how do I actually use these things without looking like I’m playing with toys at my desk?” Great question! Here are some tips for incorporating fidget toys into your work routine:

Choose discreet options: Opt for fidget toys that are small, quiet, and easy to use without drawing attention. Think stress balls, fidget rings, or even a simple paperclip to bend and unbend.
Keep it under the desk: If you’re worried about appearances, use your fidget toy under the desk or out of sight during meetings.
Explain the benefits: If colleagues ask about your fidget toy, take the opportunity to educate them on how it helps you focus and be more productive.
Use during breaks: Incorporate fidgeting into your break times to recharge and refocus before diving back into work.
Pair with other focus techniques: Combine your fidget with other ADHD-friendly strategies, like the Pomodoro Technique or time-blocking, for maximum productivity.

When fidget toys might not be appropriate

While fidget toys can be incredibly helpful, there are times when they might not be the best choice. For example:

– During important client meetings or presentations

– In quiet, formal settings where they might be distracting to others

– When operating machinery or performing tasks that require both hands

In these situations, it’s best to find alternative ways to manage your ADHD symptoms or save the fidgeting for more appropriate times.

Alternatives that offer similar benefits

If you find yourself in a situation where fidget toys aren’t suitable, don’t worry – there are plenty of alternatives that can provide similar benefits:

Doodling: Keep a notepad handy for sketching or mindless doodling during meetings or phone calls.
Chewing gum: The repetitive motion of chewing can help satisfy the need for movement.
Standing or walking: Use a standing desk or take walking meetings when possible.
Breathing exercises: Practice discreet breathing techniques to help centre your focus.
Tactile surfaces: Keep a small piece of fabric or textured object in your pocket to touch when needed.

Keep in mind that the best solutions will usually be those that engage your physical body, without requiring your attention or mental engagement.

Adult-friendly fidget toy options

If you’re ready to give fidget toys a try, here are some adult-friendly options that won’t make you feel like you’re raiding your kid’s toy box:

Fidget rings: These sleek, stylish rings have movable parts that allow for discreet fidgeting. Check out Etsy for a huge range of options.
Desk toys: Think Newton’s Cradle, a desktop Zen Garden or magnetic sculpture kits – they’re functional art pieces that double as fidget toys.
Worry stones: Smooth, polished stones that fit in your palm for a calming sensory experience.
Fidget pens: Pens with built-in fidget features, like clickers or spinning parts – just be mindful of noise if others are in earshot!
Putty or slime: Adult-oriented versions come in sophisticated colours and scents.

Remember, the key is to find something that works for you and your specific needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different options until you find your perfect fidget match.

TRY IT OUT:

To find your perfect fidget toy, start by observing your natural fidgeting habits and considering your work environment. What do you typically do with your hands when restless? Do you need something quiet or discreet? Once you’ve reflected on these factors, consider what kind of fidget will fit the bill. You might purchase a pack which includes several different types, allowing you to experiment with various options without a big investment.

Test your toy during different work scenarios – while reading, in meetings, or when brainstorming. Pay attention to which ones help you focus best in various situations. Remember, finding the right fidget toy may take some trial and error, so be patient with the process. By starting with this self-assessment and exploration, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the fidget toy that works best for you.

N.B. Many occupational therapists offer a sensory assessment service, so if you need more help to choose the ideal fidget don’t be afraid to hunt one down and get some more tailored suggestions.

As an ADHD entrepreneur, it’s crucial to find tools and strategies that help you leverage your unique brain wiring for success. Fidget toys might seem like a small thing, but they can make a big difference in your ability to focus, stay productive, and manage the challenges of ADHD in the workplace.

So go ahead, embrace your fidgety side! Whether it’s a discreet fidget ring during a conference call or a stress ball squeeze session between tasks, finding ways to incorporate healthy fidgeting into your work routine can be invaluable.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for managing ADHD. What works for one person might not work for another, and what works now probably won’t work forever. The important thing is to keep exploring, experimenting, and finding the strategies that help you thrive as an entrepreneur with ADHD.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go dig out my old Zen Garden before I brainstorm my next big business idea. Who knows? Maybe the next million-dollar invention will come from a moment of productive fidgeting!