What is the 24 hour rule for ADHD?
This is a really good idea!
Michael J Perez
7/2/20251 min read
The 24 hour rule is a simple but powerful tool to manage impulsivity, a common challenge with ADHD. When you feel the urge to make a big decision, send a sensitive message, or make a purchase, pause and wait 24 hours before acting.
This cooling-off period helps separate emotion from action and reduces impulsive choices.
Examples include delaying luxury purchases, refraining from replying to angry texts, or waiting before quitting a job after a bad day. Writing down your intention and revisiting it after 24 hours often changes your perspective.
The rule can be adapted by using a thorough decision-making process, weighing pros and cons, or seeking a trusted second opinion. This habit supports better self-regulation and protects relationships.
Willful Steps
Unlock the potential within your team, clients and community.
Focus
Thrive
michael@willfulsteps.com
0434 318 542
© 2025. All rights reserved.
DISCLAIMER
The information contained on this website and provided through our coaching and training services is for general informational and educational purposes only.
Not Professional Advice The content on this site does not constitute legal, financial, medical, psychological, human resources, or professional advice. Nothing on this website creates a coach-client relationship. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding your specific circumstances.
No Guaranteed Results Individual results from coaching and training vary significantly based on personal circumstances, effort, and implementation. We do not guarantee specific outcomes, behavioural changes, career advancement, or organisational improvements.
Neurodiversity Information Information about neurodivergent conditions (ADHD, autism, dyslexia, etc.) is general in nature and not diagnostic. We do not provide medical diagnoses or treatment. Consult qualified medical professionals for assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions.
Workshop Content Our workshops and training materials are designed for educational purposes. Implementation of strategies discussed is at the discretion of participants and their organisations. We recommend consulting with HR professionals, occupational therapists, or medical practitioners when making workplace accommodations.
Third-Party Links This website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or privacy practices of external sites.
Limitation of Liability To the maximum extent permitted by law, Willful Steps and its directors exclude all liability for any loss, damage, or expense arising from the use of or reliance on information contained on this website or provided through our services.
Copyright © 2026. All rights reserved. No part of this website or our materials may be reproduced without prior written permission.
Governing Law This disclaimer is governed by the laws of Western Australia, Australia.
Last updated: 01/01/2026