Money Management for ADHD And The Easily Distracted
Because finances require things ADHD brains despise: planning, organisation, delayed gratification, and looking at numbers without falling into a boredom coma. If managing money feels like trying to herd caffeinated squirrels, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into real strategies that work for neurodivergent minds, no boring spreadsheets, no shame, and no unrealistic “just budget better” nonsense. Money management for ADHD doesn’t have to be impossible; it just needs to work for you.
The ADHD Tax: Why You Keep Losing Money Without Realising
The ADHD tax is what happens when forgetfulness, impulsivity, and executive dysfunction cost you money. Think overdraft fees, late payments, impulse buys, and subscriptions you forgot to cancel (hello, that streaming service you swore you’d use).
How to avoid it:
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- Automate everything – Set up auto-pay for bills, savings, and subscriptions you actually use. That way, your future self doesn’t have to remember.
- Use banking apps with reminders – Some apps like Monzo or Revolut give notifications when bills are due or spending is getting out of hand.
- Cancel unused subscriptions right now – Go to your bank statement, find the sneaky ones, and cancel them before they rob you blind.
Impulse Spending: Why Treating Yourself is Bankrupting You
Impulsive spending is like a dopamine-fuelled rollercoaster. The thrill of the purchase is great until rent is due and you realise you now own five fancy notebooks you’ll never use.
How to control it:
- Create a fun money fund – A small, guilt-free amount just for impulse buys. When it’s gone, it’s gone.
- Use the 24-hour rule – Want something? Wait a day. If you still want it after 24 hours, go ahead. Most times, the urge will pass.
- Block tempting apps or sites – Use website blockers to stop those 2 a.m. online shopping sprees.
Money Management for ADHD Without Overcomplicating It
A traditional budget might work for some, but for ADHD brains, they’re usually too rigid, too boring, and quickly forgotten.
Try these instead:
- Reverse budgeting – Pay all essentials first (rent, bills, food), automate savings, and whatever’s left is your spending money.
- Use a spending tracker, not a budget – Apps like YNAB or Emma help track where your money is actually going without the hassle of setting strict budget limits.
- Make it visual – Colour-coded bank accounts, charts, and graphs can make it easier to see where your money is going.
Saving Money When Delayed Gratification Feels Impossible
The future feels far away, so why save for it? Money management for ADHD means making saving feel as rewarding as spending.
Make saving feel rewarding:
- Rename your savings accounts – Call them something exciting, like “Bali Trip Fund” or “Fancy Dinners Only Fund.”
- Use a round-up savings app – Apps like Plum or Chip round up your spending and stash the spare change into savings without you noticing.
- Gamify saving – Set challenges, like saving £5 every time you skip takeout.
Getting Financial Help Without Feeling Like a Failure
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Many neurodivergent people benefit from external financial support.
Where to start:
- Find a financial advisor who understands ADHD – Some specialise in working with neurodivergent clients and won’t bore you with financial jargon.
- Join ADHD-friendly money communities – Online forums, Facebook groups, or even Reddit have great peer support for budgeting and debt advice.
- Use an accountability buddy – A trusted friend who can gently check in on your spending and savings goals.
Supplements to Support Focus and Mental Clarity
While managing money requires structure, supporting your brain with the right nutrition can make it easier to stay focused. Consider adding Omega-3 fatty acids, L-theanine, or Rhodiola Rosea to your routine to help with cognitive function and stress management. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements.
So…
Money management for ADHD isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating systems that work for your brain, not against it. Small changes add up, and with the right tools, you can take control of your finances without needing to give up coffee or fun.
Now, go check your subscriptions and cancel at least one. Future you will thank you.
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