Time is one of humanity’s most profound constructs, yet how we perceive it is deeply subjective. For individuals with ADHD, time often takes on a unique and fluid dimension. Struggling with time perception, they frequently experience life intensely in the present moment, a trait that resonates with the philosophical concept of the “eternal now.” This article explores how people with ADHD navigate time, the challenges it presents, and the potential beauty of their connection to the present. By examining two case studies and variations in how ADHD manifests, we’ll also consider its impact on education, home life, and employment, along with strategies for fostering balance.

The Eternal Now: A Philosophical Perspective

The “eternal now” is a concept rooted in existential philosophy and spirituality, positing that the present moment is all that truly exists. Past and future are abstractions, while the now is where life unfolds. For individuals with ADHD, this state of hyper-presence often feels less like a choice and more like a default way of being. This heightened immediacy can be both a gift and a challenge, depending on the context.

While neurotypical individuals typically divide their attention between past experiences, present tasks, and future planning, people with ADHD may struggle to access this temporal balance. Instead, they often operate in a state of immediacy, where deadlines, memories, and even looming responsibilities can feel abstract and disconnected from their current reality. This can lead to a sense of urgency or procrastination as the perceived passage of time becomes difficult to measure or manage.

Case Study 1: Sarah’s Struggle with Deadlines

Sarah, a graphic designer in her mid-30s, describes her relationship with time as a “constant battle.” Deadlines sneak up on her because they don’t feel real until they are immediate. When she’s in her creative flow, hours pass unnoticed. Conversely, tasks she deems mundane often feel insurmountable, as if time slows to a crawl. Sarah’s hyperfocus on the present means she produces stunning work but often at the last minute, under immense pressure.

Her experience aligns with ADHD’s hallmark challenges in executive functioning—the brain’s ability to plan, prioritise, and manage time. Sarah’s heightened creativity thrives in the “now,” but the cost is the persistent stress of looming deadlines.

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Case Study 2: Jason’s Classroom Challenges

Jason, an 11-year-old student with ADHD, struggles with the structured timeframes of a traditional classroom. For Jason, the concept of a “45-minute math lesson” feels irrelevant; his focus is either entirely absorbed in solving one problem or drifting toward the clock as he anticipates recess. His teacher notes that Jason often finishes assignments either far too quickly, skipping steps, or not at all, losing track of time entirely.

At home, Jason’s parents face similar challenges. When tasked with chores, Jason is either immersed in play or overwhelmed by the prospect of starting. This dichotomy underscores ADHD’s impact on how time is perceived and valued—as an abstract idea rather than a practical framework.

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Variations of ADHD and Time Perception

1. Hyperfocus and the “Time Warp”

Hyperfocus is a well-documented phenomenon in ADHD, where individuals become so engrossed in a task that hours can pass like minutes. While this can be a superpower in certain scenarios, it often leads to a disconnect from the broader timeline. People who experience hyperfocus may struggle to switch gears, missing appointments or neglecting other priorities.

2. Time Blindness and Overwhelm

Conversely, time blindness describes the difficulty many with ADHD face in visualising or anticipating the future. For these individuals, even short-term planning can feel overwhelming. The inability to gauge how long tasks will take or how soon deadlines will arrive often creates a sense of perpetual chaos.

ADHD in the Classroom, Home, and Workplace

1. The Classroom

Traditional classrooms often rely on rigid schedules and structured learning—an environment that can clash with ADHD’s time perception. Teachers can help by:

  • Breaking lessons into smaller, manageable chunks.
  • Using timers or visual aids to signal transitions.
  • Incorporating movement or hands-on activities to keep students engaged.

2. At Home

At home, parents can support children with ADHD by:

  • Establishing consistent routines with visual reminders (e.g., charts or checklists).
  • Using time-management tools like alarms or timers.
  • Encouraging breaks and rewarding progress rather than focusing solely on completion.

3. Employment

In the workplace, individuals with ADHD often excel in creative or dynamic roles but may struggle with administrative tasks or deadlines. Strategies include:

  • Using project management software to track deadlines visually.
  • Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps with clear milestones.
  • Seeking roles that allow for flexibility and creativity.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing the “Eternal Now”

Living with ADHD requires both self-awareness and external support. Here are some practical ways to navigate its unique relationship with time:

    1. Mindfulness Practices: While ADHD minds often race, mindfulness can help ground individuals in the present without becoming lost in it. Practices like meditation or guided breathing can enhance focus and awareness.
    2. Visual Time Tools: Clocks, calendars, and time-tracking apps designed for ADHD (e.g., Time Timer) can make abstract deadlines feel tangible.
    3. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals reframe their relationship with time by addressing procrastination, planning difficulties, and emotional regulation.
  1. Leaning into Strengths: Recognising the beauty of the “eternal now” can foster creativity, spontaneity, and innovation. By balancing this strength with practical tools, people with ADHD can thrive in a world that values both the present and the future.

Final Thoughts

Time perception in ADHD offers a unique lens through which to view the human experience. While the challenges are undeniable, the trait of living intensely in the present moment also carries profound beauty. By understanding how ADHD shapes our interaction with time—and adopting strategies to bridge the gaps—we can create environments where individuals with ADHD not only succeed but redefine what it means to truly live in the “now.”