Body doubling refers to doing a task with another person present, either virtually or in-person.
The body double does not need to actively help with the task you're working on. They can do something unrelated while you complete your tasks. They are simply present in the space while you complete the tasks that need to be done. People with ADHD can simultaneously body-double for each other while doing unrelated, necessary tasks in the same space at the same time.
The important part is that the knowledge that someone is “present” and aware that you are doing the task should increase motivation and follow-through.
I have seen amazing results with clients who found that having another person present improved their executive functioning and motivation.
If you have difficulty staying focused on a task, the body double’s presence can cue you to remember what you were doing and provide light pressure to stay on track. You can think of the task as a favor to the body double, which can increase your motivation to finish it. The body double is a physical reminder of the task you are trying to complete, as well to boost accountability.
To the other extreme, body doubles can remind you to take breaks, eat, drink, and use the bathroom if you tend to hyper-focus and neglect your needs. This is a good place to remember to use the Pomodoro Technique to help manage your team's time!
If you need help learning how ADHD affects you, need help with body doubling (a service I provide!) schedule a free Discovery Session today and let’s talk about how I can help you!
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