From the Assembly Line to Your To-Do List: What the Car Industry Taught Us About Executive Functioning

Did you know there is a direct connection between the car industry and your Executive Functions? Read below to find out this strange but true fact. 

In the 1940s, Toyota revolutionized car manufacturing with a system that was deceptively simple: visualize the workflow, limit work in progress, and improve continuously. That system, Kanban, helped make Toyota a global leader.

But Kanban didn’t stay in the factory. It quietly made its way into software development, project management... and now, executive functioning coaching.

Here’s how it connects:

 Executive functioning is how we plan, prioritize, initiate, and complete tasks. It's how we mentally “manufacture” productivity. But for many—especially students or professionals with ADHD or other neurodiverse profiles—this system can easily get jammed.

That’s where Kanban comes in.

A Kanban board (physical or digital) breaks tasks into visual chunks like “To Do,” “Doing,” and “Done.” Just like on the Toyota floor, this limits mental overload, reduces procrastination, and builds momentum. It externalizes the workflow, turning invisible executive functions into visible steps.

 Whether you're managing a car assembly line or a chaotic school semester, the principle is the same:

 Make the work visible. Limit what’s on your plate. Improve as you go.

As an Executive Function Coach, I regularly introduce Kanban-style tools like Trello, Notion, or even sticky notes to help clients structure their time and tasks. The results? Less anxiety, more follow-through, and a genuine sense of control.

 Curious how to build your own personal productivity “assembly line”?

 Let’s connect! I’m always happy to share strategies or swap ideas.