How a Simple Strategy Can Help You Stay Focused and Manage Distractions
Running a business as a neurodiverse entrepreneur comes with a lot of brilliance, creativity, and innovation — but let’s be honest, it also brings challenges. From task paralysis to sensory overwhelm, executive dysfunction to inconsistent motivation, productivity isn’t just about willpower. Sometimes, it’s about having the right support in place — and that’s where body doubling comes in.
What Is Body Doubling?
At its simplest, body doubling means working alongside someone else (either in person or virtually) to help you stay focused. The “body double” doesn’t need to do the same task or interact much. Their presence alone acts as a gentle anchor, making it easier for your brain to stay on track.
This approach has long been embraced by people with ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence, but its benefits are now being recognised more widely.
Why Body Doubling Works
Neurodivergent brains (including ADHD, autism, and dyslexia) often struggle with starting tasks and maintaining attention. It’s not laziness; it’s simply a different wiring. Dopamine and other neurotransmitters play a big role in focus, and when levels fluctuate, even simple tasks can feel impossible.
Body doubling offers:
✅ External accountability without pressure
✅ A calming structure
✅ A social cue to focus
✅ Less overwhelm from constant decision-making
In short: you’re not alone. Someone is there, holding the space, helping your mind stay where you want it to be.
A Real-Life Example
Picture this: you’ve been staring at your to-do list all day. You know what needs doing, but your brain refuses to cooperate. You open emails, scroll social media, half-start a task, then feel worse for “wasting time.”
Now imagine logging onto a Zoom call with a virtual body double. You greet each other, share what you plan to tackle for the next 25 minutes, and start. You check in after the timer, maybe take a break, maybe repeat.
Suddenly, those emails are answered. That invoice is sent. That blog post is drafted. You’re in motion.
Neurodivergent entrepreneurs often juggle high creativity alongside inconsistent executive functioning. Body doubling provides a gentle, non-judgemental productivity tool, especially when paired with someone who understands how your brain works.
What Happens in a Session?
Our virtual body doubling sessions are designed to be:
🌿 Supportive – no pressure, just structure
⏱️ Flexible – short bursts (like Pomodoro) or longer sprints
🧠 Neurodiversity-informed – we get task-switching, fluctuating energy, and sensory needs
🤝 Collaborative – we can co-work, offer guidance, or just quietly “be there”
Clients often go from completely stuck to smashing through their admin in under an hour — simply because someone was present.
Who Can Benefit?
Body doubling is particularly helpful for:
Entrepreneurs with ADHD, autism, or executive functioning challenges
Anyone working alone who struggles to focus or stay motivated
Business owners who thrive with external structure
Creatives, coaches, and service-based professionals juggling multiple tasks
If you’ve ever thought, “I know what to do, I just can’t seem to do it” — body doubling could be the solution.
Want to Try It?
We offer approachable body doubling sessions that fit naturally into your day. Whether you need one-off support or want to build a regular co-working habit, we’re here to help. Make this the month you stop struggling in silence and start getting things done — your way.
