Executive functioning incorporates the numerous cognitive processes needed for completing the varying tasks of every day life. These include foundational skills such as initiation, attention, and memory as well as more complex abilities including organization, goal setting, and planning.

When an individual has challenges with executive functioning, completing tasks can feel overwhelming. It can be difficult to get started, stay focused, and remain motivated. You may find you lose track of time, underestimating how long a task may take. Or you may finish a task and realize that you spent too much time on less important components of the project and instead missed key steps or parts.

For children and young adults, executive functioning deficits can impact a wide range of aspects of daily life. School work and learning, responsibilities at home, and even social interactions can be impacted by these difficulties.