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Most neurodivergents live for dopamine.

Dopamine is that “feel good” feeling.

When the dopamine drops, it’s like the lights dim, and depression’s waiting to pounce.

I’ve developed ways to keep that dopamine buzz going without forcing some boring routine. These are my go-to:

1) Regular Workouts

This for me consists of:

• Gym twice a week: Weights and cardio

• Football once a week: with some local or work folks (depending on what I’m feeling)

I’m a psycho competitor and the idea of potentially winning a soccer match pyschs me up for the night before and the day ahead! In it to win it.

• If I Win: My brain’s buzzing, and I’m on top.

• If I Lose: I’m still fine— at least I’ve worked out and feel good about myself.

  It keeps me:

  • Fit — not falling apart.

  • Sharp — thinking clear
    

2) Quality time with loved ones

Hanging with the wife and kids is my reset after work.

Nothing beats that, especially after a stressful day in the office.

Spending time with them:

• Makes me feel better

• Reminds me that there’s nothing more important

3) Gaming: Online Chaos with the Boys

I game online with my friends

• Yelling

• Trash talking

• Laughing

• Winning

It’s a mess and fun, it allows me to also let off steam

It takes a crap day and flips it; dopamine’s back, easy!

4) See Friends

Once a month, I meet up with 13 friends from a group I’m in:

• We’re all Husbands

• Most of us are fathers

• All scrambling to keep it together

We eat, talk loudly, and vent. It’s like a recharge station.

There's a nice feeling about having trustworthy people to share your:

• Challenges

• Vulnerabilities
  

5) Mix It Up, Stay Alive

I do schedules but I’m not regimental about it. I love the concept of novelty, as I easily get bored of things.

Keeps my brain from going flat.

Each to their own though! Do what works for you, whether:

• A walk

• Loud music

• A book

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Lastly,

Stay Different,

The AuDHD Exec

Disclaimer: I am not your psychiatrist, coach, doctor. Neurodiverse Diary does not provide medical services or professional counselling and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Everything I publish represents my opinions, experience, not advice.