How can I strengthen my executive functioning skills?

PostedOctober 1, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Strengthening executive function is possible with the right exercises and strategies. Executive functions, such as planning, organising, attention, and impulse control, can be improved with consistent practice and the use of targeted techniques. Whether you have ADHD or simply want to enhance your cognitive skills, there are several effective methods to help strengthen these abilities.

One of the best ways to build executive skills is through executive skill exercises. These activities can include tasks like memory games, puzzle-solving, or time management challenges. These exercises help improve cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and the ability to stay organised. Regular practice of these exercises can have a significant impact on everyday functioning, such as staying on task and completing goals efficiently.

Common Symptoms

ADHD Executive Training

ADHD executive training is another approach that focuses on teaching individuals specific strategies to improve executive function. This may include using visual reminders, creating structured routines, and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. With the guidance of a coach or therapist, individuals can develop customised strategies to help improve focus and organisation.

Build Executive Skills

To build executive skills, it’s important to set realistic goals, prioritise tasks, and practise self-monitoring. Developing these habits will help improve self-regulation and decision-making, making it easier to manage responsibilities both at home and at work.

In conclusion, strengthening executive function is achievable with consistent effort and targeted exercises. Whether through executive skill exercises or ADHD executive training, improving these skills can lead to greater success and a more organised lifestyle.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Executive Function Deficits.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.