Procrastination — the nemesis of ADHD.
We struggle it, we battle it. Often in vain.
But what if there's a different approach, a gentler way that aligns with our unique mental wiring?
Procrastination can seem like a relentless enemy. But a centuries-old philosophy from Taoism, Wu-Wei, provides a unique solution to this modern-day struggle.
The principle: Alan Watts, the great master of Taoism and translator of Eastern philosophy for Western audiences, explains Wu-Wei as "non-forcing."
It's about harmonising with life's natural flow, much like water finding the path of least resistance down a hill. This seemingly passive action can yield powerful results.
ADHD and Wu-Wei: ADHD can feel like being caught in a storm of thoughts and impulses.
The instinct? To fight back, to control the chaos. But that's where Wu-Wei offers a different approach: stop fighting and find peace within the storm.
Beating procrastination: Your task list looms large. The deadline's ticking. Anxiety soars. Traditional wisdom suggests forcing your way through. But this can fuel procrastination, trapping you in a loop of stress and inaction.
Enter Wu-Wei.
How it works:
Acceptance: Acknowledge that ADHD is a part of you. Something to work with, not fight against.
Understanding procrastination: Procrastination often stems from feeling overwhelmed, rather than laziness or lack of discipline. By recognising this, you can begin to address the root cause.
Task management: Break down your tasks into the smallest possible scope — if you can’t get a task done in one hour (or less), instead of working longer, reduce the task down so it can get done in a short timeframe.
Wait for the impulse: Don't force action. Wait for your natural impulse — the rush of hyper focus that comes with ADHD. This aligns with Wu-Wei, flowing with your inherent rhythm instead of pushing against it.
Yes, but: There's a valid concern — what if the impulse to act doesn't come? Trust that it will. As the pressure of forced action subsides, your brain will find its own groove. It will identify the path of least resistance and action will follow.
I’ve found that when I force it creates more resistance which in turn creates more procrastination.
By allowing the water to flow towards the ocean, and relax into the natural flow of life, I’ve been noticed that my mind begins to find it’s natural flow.
We’re often trying achieve a certain result, even if it’s out of our natural grasp. By working with our natural talents, rather than forcing ourselves to be different we can get a lot more from life.
The big picture: This isn't a quick fix. It's a journey of acceptance and self-discovery. But it offers a powerful perspective shift. ADHD doesn't have to be a constant battle against procrastination. By employing the Wu-Wei principle, you can transform ADHD from a struggle to a strength.
The bottom line: Like water flowing down a hill, you can find your own path, effortlessly overcoming procrastination. ADHD is not a flaw, but a different way of engaging with the world.
With the power of Wu-Wei, it can be an asset.
Your future self will thank you.
Thanks Joseph for your words of wisdom 😊😊😊