“Noise”: irrelevant distractions & endless notifications are my nemesis.

As a neurodivergent, my attention is precious, and I’m intentional about protecting it.

Once I’m distracted, it’s difficult for me to regain focus and grip on the day. It’s frustrating.

So I do my best at all costs to put a stop to the noise.

Studies show neurodivergents like me:

• Face higher risks of depression

• Anxiety

• Have a shorter life span

Some really disturbing facts, right!? We’re in this together! 💪

A “live fast, die young” vibe. But by living slowly, we can take control

I’ve got an addictive personality..

And if I’m not careful, I can go down the wrong road and get completely lost.

I don’t want that for myself. I choose to embrace a “live slow, die old” mindset. Where I develop habits that may be considered “boring” to others, but are rewarding long-term!

Some of my folks who are unaware of my neurodivergence probably think I’m:

• “weird”

• “boring”

But what they’re also unaware of is that this lifestyle helps me:

• Physically

• Have a clear mind

• Hit my goals & deadlines

• And ULTIMATELY provide for my family

I can’t afford to eff-up the bag 💰

My ways of living slowly can look like:

1. Sleeping right

2. Eliminate bad habits

3. Note-taking - Schedule time to reflect/review

1) Sleep Right 🛌

A principle I got from my pops as a young boy. The old adage “early to bed, early to rise”.

Sleep is my biggest determining factor for my energy levels.

If I’ve got a busy day ahead, I’ll aim to go to bed earlier. I aim for 11 pm to recharge my energy.

• Ashwaghander

• CBD

• Magnesium

Help me sleep deeply and wake up ready for the day.

2) Eliminate bad habits

I used to be envious of my folks who could:

• Drink

• Smoke

• Party all night

And still perform well.

Once I realised I just wasn’t able to do that. I accepted my fate and cut that stuff out!

I had to learn to have fun without damaging my mind and body. It feels great!

Earlier in my career, I felt peer pressure to drink at those work drinks. Thinking it would jeopardise my future.

I managed to “wing” it by stating, “I train competitively,” so I can’t drink.

Now:

• I’m happier

• I don’t have FOMO

Physical Exercise

When it comes to Physical exercise. Long walks are my favorite form of exercise.

I’m able to do my deep thinking here. It helps me process my thoughts and solve problems.

3) Pen and paper 📝

I grew up on pen and notepad; the tablets and other tech stuff weren’t around then. I’m telling my age 👀

My note-taking/writing is essential for my mental clarity.

• I’m less anxious

• I’m clearer

• I feel better

As David McCullough said, “Writing is thinking.”

I recently switched to a digital notepad where I can:

• Write

• Save and

• Organise my notes even better

Enhancing my mental clarity.

Most importantly, I try to carve out time to review those notes.

So I can make further sense of it and iron out anything I missed.

What’s your ‘noise’? How do you stay focused in a chaotic world? Hit reply and share your strategies?

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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.