AuDHD Flourishing

Feeling exhausted? It might be your working memory! Discover practical techniques to improve daily tasks, inspired by Cal Newport's digital file method. Learn how simple tools like Post-it notes can help track decisions and reduce cognitive overload. Embrace flexible task management to enhance focus and lessen overwhelm in a busy life.

Delve into the concept of autistic joy, beautifully framed as a form of mindfulness. The speaker shares personal anecdotes that highlight the delight found in everyday sensory experiences. These 'glimmers' serve as reminders of the happiness that can be discovered in small moments. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate these profound yet simple joys, reconnecting with their sensory worlds.

Quitting can be liberating when it serves your self-protection. Personal anecdotes reveal different methods of deciding when to walk away, from weighing pros and cons to listening to your body's signals. The speaker shares their journey of letting go of physical therapy and courses that didn’t respect their identity. Emphasizing self-care, they advocate for prioritizing emotional health over societal expectations, showcasing the transformative power of mindful quitting.

The discussion begins by unraveling the myths of laziness, particularly for those with ADHD, emphasizing self-compassion. A transformative vacation centered on minimal chores reveals the joys of intentional rest. Misconceptions about laziness and personal accommodations shed light on real struggles, especially in self-care. The speaker champions guilt-free relaxation and advocates for balancing productivity with personal fulfillment, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique energy cycles and savor moments of indulgence.

The podcast discusses the importance of addressing the patriarchal system instead of blaming men for societal issues. It explores topics such as pay disparity, shame, and individual responsibility, as well as the impact of patriarchy on men's pursuit of intimacy. The podcast also emphasizes the need for creating inclusive safe spaces for marginalized genders and advocates for challenging systemic issues in gender equality.

Exploring relationship crisis communication challenges and coping with emotions. Delving into internal struggles with trauma and communication patterns, emphasizing self-care and acceptance of mistakes in relationships.

Explore strategies for project completion with ADHD, from managing interruptions to leveraging brain functions. Learn about the Adrenaline-Anxiety Approach and transition to a more sustainable, individualized monotropic approach. Discover tips on creating structure, managing daily life, and finding balance, along with insights from the Love Your Brain course.

Pawel Kowalczyk, a former middle school teacher and high-masking AuDHDer, shares compelling insights on how unresolved middle school challenges manifest in adult life. He discusses the lasting impact of social dynamics and identity struggles faced during adolescence. Pawel highlights the need for supportive environments that nurture resilience and emotional growth. His personal anecdotes illustrate the importance of allowing safe risks in childhood, promoting independence and problem-solving skills essential for adult interactions.

The discussion explores how achievements often don't define our identities, especially for AuDHD individuals. It highlights the joy of supporting others over being the main creator. Listeners are encouraged to focus on personal connections rather than traditional markers of success. The episode emphasizes the need for boredom and rest in fostering creativity. Finally, it advocates for self-compassion and safety in personal growth, steering clear of societal pressures that lead to burnout.

Every creative and interesting person has experienced the feeling that at least some of their big dreams are impossible. And when the current big dream is just surviving, that can be especially challenging.  I share about the emotional side of the ten years when my composition career had an almost 100% rejection rate. And why I'm giving this unusual advice... It can be healthy to temporarily let go of dreams that are stressing you out!  Crisis Text Line, text HOME to 741741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor on a wide variety of topicsOriginally episode 61 on The Longer Road podcast (with minor edits) Resources:Like Your Brain community spaceTranscript DocEmail Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.