The Art of Focus: Managing Productivity with an ADHD Brain (And Why It Matters for Everyone) - Alyssa Nicoll

This talk was recorded at NDC Copenhagen in Copenhagen, Denmark. #ndccopenhagen #ndcconferences #developer #softwaredeveloper    

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For over 30 years, I’ve been fighting to pay attention—literally. Living with ADHD, particularly an extreme version of it, has forced me to develop strategies to stay productive, meet goals, and thrive in both my career and personal life. But here’s the thing: You don’t have to be neurodivergent to struggle with attention, procrastination, and feeling overwhelmed.

We live in a world that constantly demands more from us, making focus a rare and valuable skill. Through trial, error, and necessity, I’ve discovered practical, science-backed techniques that help manage the chaos—strategies that anyone can use. From task management frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix to unconventional motivators (yes, bribery works), I’ll walk you through methods that help turn distractions into productivity.

But productivity isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter, protecting your time, setting boundaries, and finding joy in what you do. In this talk, I’ll share both tactical strategies and deeper psychological insights into why focus is so elusive and how we can reclaim it.

Whether you're struggling with ADHD, burnout, or just an ever-growing to-do list, you’ll leave this session with actionable tools to help you work more effectively, reduce overwhelm, and maybe—just maybe—start feeling in control of your time again.

NDC Conferences

A developer advocate shares personal strategies for managing productivity while living with ADHD. The talk covers practical techniques including the Eisenhower matrix for prioritization, brain dumping, Pomodoro technique, time boxing, environmental changes, and self-care routines. Beyond tactical advice, it explores the psychology of focus, emphasizing that joy and contentment precede productivity rather than follow it. The speaker demonstrates how tools like ChatGPT, physical reminders, and structured breaks can help manage executive function challenges, while stressing the importance of being present in the current moment rather than constantly chasing the next achievement.

The Art of Focus: Managing Productivity with an ADHD Brain - Alyssa Nicoll - NDC Copenhagen 2025