Why it fails: Task initiation is the real challenge, not task size. Breaking a project into smaller pieces gives you 47 things you can't start instead of one. The issue isn't complexity; your brain hasn't found a way to engage yet.

What works instead: Task bracketing—pair the hard-to-start task with something your brain already wants to do. Body doubling, changing your environment, or the "just for 2 minutes" approach can flip the switch.

Why it fails: This one stings because it makes us feel like we don't care about the things we say matter. Our brains need interest, novelty, challenge, urgency, or passion to activate. Something can be deeply important AND incredibly hard to do if none of those elements are present.

What works instead: Build external accountability—text a friend when you're done, schedule it with someone else, or create artificial urgency. Make boring tasks more interesting with music, location changes, or challenges.

Why it fails: ADHD brains operate on an interest-based nervous system. We need novelty, interest, challenge, urgency, or passion to activate our executive functions. "Just be disciplined" is like telling someone to see better without their glasses.

What works instead: Use the NICUP framework—make tasks interesting, add challenge or urgency, connect them to your values. Leverage accountability. Rotate approaches so novelty stays high.