Writing a book isn’t just about getting the sentences right (if only!) It’s as much about managing your time, energy, emotions, and expectations. Which is already difficult enough. So what happens when you add ADHD to the mix?
How do you juggle long timelines, self-imposed deadlines, revisions, logistics, and the emotional rollercoaster of publishing, all while dealing with challenges like task initiation, hyperfocus, and, of course, a steady undercurrent of shame?
This was the subject of my latest Author Insider conversation with Irena Smith, author of The Golden Ticket and Troika. Irena, who teaches a writing class for women with ADHD, spoke candidly about the difference between distraction and disorder, the role of urgency in getting your writing done, and how ADHD can shape storytelling itself.
She also shared some of the strategies that have worked for her—and the ones that haven’t. Whether or not you have ADHD, her insights and advice about the psychology of writing are worth considering. As a perennial procrastinator (followed by ruthless self-criticism), I was particularly grateful for her encouragement simply to be kinder to yourself.
Important Note: Unless you want to hear us chat about horror movies while we wait for people to join, I suggest you start at the two-minute mark. And if you don’t have time for the full conversation, below are a few key moments you can jump to:
Key moments from the conversation
02:54 — What ADHD actually is (and isn’t)
06:18 — Writing in bursts, and the role of urgency
09:21 — A simple ritual that helps unlock writing
12:45 — Associational thinking and the power of “ADHD storytelling”
19:33 — Revisions aren’t the problem
22:25 — Outlines don’t work; this does instead
30:05 — Hybrid publishing: clearer timelines, faster feedback, and a “more humane” approach
40:35 — How to quiet your internal critic
45:58 — The strengths and weaknesses of hyperfocus
I hope you enjoyed our conversation and found something helpful to take back to your desk/kitchen table/wherever you find writing time.
A special thank you to everyone who joined the live session and contributed questions in the chat. I truly appreciate the thoughtful participation from the Author Insider community.
Until next time,
Panio Gianopoulos
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Author Insider is where writers get the real story of publishing—thoughtful conversations with bestselling authors and industry insiders, clear-eyed analysis of where the market is headed, and practical strategies for building a sustainable writing career. Whether you’re just starting out or several books in, the goal is the same: helping you make smarter decisions about your work.
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