# 080: The Efficiency Trap: How Chasing Shortcuts Drains Your Executive Function + 5 Questions to Break the Cycle

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/from-stuck-to-started-executive-function-adhd-coaching-to-take-action-7064879/080-the-efficiency-trap-how-chasing-shortcuts-drains-your-executive-function-5-questions-to-break-the-cycle
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/from-stuck-to-started-executive-function-adhd-coaching-to-take-action-7064879/080-the-efficiency-trap-how-chasing-shortcuts-drains-your-executive-function-5-questions-to-break-the-cycle.md
Podcast: [From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action](https://stenobird.com/podcast/from-stuck-to-started-executive-function-adhd-coaching-to-take-action-7064879)
Published: 2026-06-17T05:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.executivefunctioningfirst.com/podcast
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f8695c2f-87a9-42f9-aa0c-858c926b2905.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/from-stuck-to-started-executive-function-adhd-coaching-to-take-action-7064879/episodes/080-the-efficiency-trap-how-chasing-shortcuts-drains-your-executive-function-5-questions-to-break-the-cycle
Duration seconds: 1479

## Resource

Have you ever tried to take the most efficient route… only to end up creating more work for yourself? In this episode, I’m sharing a very real (and very soggy) story about how my attempt to save time ended with me falling into a lake. We’ll talk about why your brain chases efficiency, how it can actually drain your executive functioning, and how to create systems that help both current and future you. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why chasing efficiency can backfire (especially with ADHD) The difference between actual efficiency and avoiding discomfort 5 reflection questions to ask before taking a “shortcut” How to be more efficient with time without overwhelming yourself Whether you're folding laundry, writing emails, or building a business, this episode will help you work more efficiently with ADHD by prioritizing sustainability over speed. Connect with Sarah Lovell: Website: Executive Functioning First Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst Apply for 1:1 Coaching: Learn more & let's schedule a free 45-minute discovery call Resources Mentioned: Free Private Podcast: The ADHD Action Plan Read the blog version here Stop Doomscrolling & autopiloting to your phone with Brick -get 10% off when you purchase with this link! Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background

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