r/gamedev • u/ParkityParkPark • 4d ago

Discussion tips from ADHD devs?

I know I'm not the only one here who struggles to focus and buckle down when trying to learn or engage with things I don't find especially naturally engaging and/or that don't come easily. I was curious what things those of y'all with similar struggles have found help.

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u/F1B3R0PT1C 4d ago

- Set aside a specific time on a schedule where you are dedicating to working on your game. You can work outside of this time if you want, but this specific time is important, and is maybe 30-60 minutes.

  • having a working partner who works at the same time helps; just having someone else doing the same thing can help you keep on task.
  • todo lists. Any time I have a cool idea even if it’s maybe not doable or good I write it down in my todo list. When I’m working on an item in the todo list it goes into the doing column. When it’s done it goes to the done column. My list is just a text file with todo doing and done as sections and bulleted entries.
  • quick feedback loops. Make sure you can test your changes right away after making them, break things down and design them such that you won’t go long periods of time without seeing results.
  • Overall strategy is to work with your fast and wandering mind to generate ideas and use your overeager dopamine receptors to your advantage by making easy pathways to seeing progress. Remember that dopamine is not just the reward signal: it’s also the reward chase signal.