Getting the ADHD Brain Going
Ever wonder why you struggle to focus or get started on a project you do not want to do? The explanation behind it is that those of us with ADHD have an interest-based nervous system. This means that our brains are attracted to whatever is interesting to us in the moment. Interest, in this case, is anything that stimulates the brain.
It is important to point out that this stimulation can be positive or negative. So, you can be engaged by a crossword puzzle or rumination.
It is also important to point out that what stimulates me (crosswords and rumination, among other things) might not stimulate someone else with ADHD. It will be unique to the individual.
Furthermore, interest can also be situational. What stimulates the brain in one setting might not in another setting.
What Does All This Mean?
If you have read this far, you are probably wondering about the practical application of all of this. Well, it is important to understand all of this because knowing this helps us manage our brains and get them engaged in the things we want them to do. Once you become aware of this you can learn what sort of things engage your brain and how to use that to your advantage. It is extremely beneficial to ask yourself, “How can I make this more exciting to my brain?” The answer to that question is how you get your ADHD brain going in the direction you want it to go.
This is not an easy task, however. Sometimes it can be difficult to know what will engage your brain in a particular setting and how to change things so that your brain does get engaged. In these cases, working with a coach can be extremely beneficial.