Everything Is Urgent - What Do I Do First?

“Is it actually an urgent task, in the sense that there's a deadline due tomorrow? Or is it just a feeling, perhaps generating dopamine from interest, novelty or challenge, that makes you feel that way?” In this episode of Wired to WORK Differently, we speak with neuropsychologist and ADHD coach Nicole Chen about a familiar experience: having so much to do that everything begins to feel equally urgent. We explore what cognitive overload and decision fatigue do to our ability to prioritise, when a productivity system helps—and when the real problem is simply that there is too much on our plate. Key Takeaways from the episode 🚨 1. Urgency is often a feeling, not a fact Neurodivergent/ ADHD brains often prioritize things because of interest, anxiety or a desire for immediate relief. The key skill is developing a pause and asking yourself: "what is making this feel urgent right now?" This will help reduce impulsive reactions, prioritize better and make better workplace decisions. ⏸️ 2. Pause. Notice. Choose. Instead of reacting immediately to every new task, message or idea, practise taking a step back. Pause before responding. Notice what is driving the urgency. Ask yourself: “What is making this feel urgent right now?” Choose whether the task needs immediate attention or can wait. 📝 3. Capture first, decide later Do not use your brain as a to-do-list. Reduce cognitive load rather than trying harder. Write things down and create simple systems like reminders and timers to structure your day. About the Guest Nicole Chen is an experienced Clinical Neuropsychologist who conducts comprehensive neuropsychological assessments, provides treatment recommendations, and delivers cognitive rehabilitation for individuals with a wide variety of brain-based conditions across the lifespan. Her clinical expertise includes neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. dementia, mild cognitive impairment), neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g. ADHD, autism, intellectual disability) and acquired brain injuries (e.g. stroke, traumatic brain injury). She also has experience in medicolegal and mental capacity assessments. She has a strong interest in adult neurodivergence, especially in women and high-masking individuals. Nicole is also a Certified ADHD Coach who is trained to work collaboratively with clients to help them manage their lives more effectively and live out their potential. Her approach is neuro-affirming, person-centred, and strengths-based. With her training in neuropsychology, she has a deep understanding of the neurological differences and cognitive difficulties experienced by those with ADHD. She firmly believes that individuals with ADHD can lead a fulfilling, balanced, and productive life. Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   / nicole-chen-380b41158   https://www.nicolechenpsychology.com https://theotherclinic.sg/nicole-chen/ About The Show Wired to WORK Differently is a podcast from Transforming Lives as part of its “Wired to LIVE Differently” series. Hosted by Moonlake Lee, we have candid conversations with individuals who think, lead and work differently… and professionals who work with them. We will be exploring the strengths, struggles and strategies that shape how we navigate working life. End Credits Presented by Transforming Lives Host Moonlake Lee Executive Producers Moonlake Lee Raven Lim Production Team Dasiyah De Zwart Genie Hoe Production & Post-Production Poddster Singapore Makeup for Host Alisa Cheng Styling for Host Hana Cheng Guest Nicole Chen © 2026 Transforming Lives Pte Ltd Subscribe to our mailing list: https://bit.ly/TL-newsletter1026 We're also on Spotify: https://bit.ly/WTWD-Spotify Follow Us On Our Socials • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/TL-LinkedIn • Facebook: https://bit.ly/TransformingLivesFB • Instagram: https://bit.ly/transforminglivesinsta • Website: https://bit.ly/transforminglives-asia