Routines & Tech: Anchors for Neurodiversity
In today’s fast paced world, finding a moment of calm and certainty can be really tough, especially for those of us with unique brain wiring.
If you're riding the rollercoaster of ADHD, wandering the autism spectrum maze,or some combination of both (a Mazer-Coaster?), finding some stable ground isn't just nice to have—it's essential for feeling good and getting things done. Creating a solid routine and smartly using tech can make a huge difference, offering neurodivergent folks like us a boost in happiness, effectiveness, and flow.
The Anchoring Power of Routine
For a lot of us, our daily routines and habits are much more than just a to-do list—they're like the frame that holds up our day-to-day life, giving us a reliable beat in the midst of all the chaos. For those of us with unique brain makeup, these patterns aren’t just about keeping our schedules in line—they’re our safe haven, a place where things make sense, which can really help dial down the stress and sensory overload.
Building Effective Routines:
Start Small: Crafting a strong routine starts with taking a good look at your existing habits. Try making small tweaks rather than big changes—like spending the first five minutes of your day meditating instead of diving straight into your inbox, or setting aside specific times to worry so it doesn't take over your day. It’s these little, doable adjustments that can grow into lasting habits.
Use a Dual Calendar System: Get the best of both worlds by using digital and paper calendars. Digital calendars like Google Calendar can remind you of what's next, while a physical one on your desk lets you see your day or week at a glance AND provides a sense of tangibility to your day-to-day. This combo meets various needs and preferences, rounding out your routine in a way that feels good.
Stay Flexible: Being too strict with your routine can actually set you back, especially on days when being neurodivergent feels like an uphill battle. Adding some flexibility to your routine, like having backup rest days or tasks that can shift around, means your routine will always fit your needs, not the other way around.
Using Tech to make Life Easier
Today, tech gives us amazing ways to make life more suited to our unique brains. Wearable gadgets can encourage us to live healthier, and there are apps designed to help clear our minds. These tools are great for keeping us balanced and productive.
Exploring Tech That Helps Us Thrive:
Mindful Gadgets: Picture a bracelet that buzzes to remind you to stretch after sitting too long, keeping you from getting too stiff. Or think about a ring that helps you track your body’s cycles—not necessarily for a specific health goal, but to understand how your body’s changes impact how you feel and function, giving you the insight to tweak your daily routines.
Smart Organizing Apps: Apps like Trello take organizing to the next level, letting you break down your tasks and breaks into colorful, easy-to-see blocks. Or there's Asana, which lets you layout big projects step by step, so even the biggest tasks seem doable.
Time Management, Upgraded: The Pomodoro method, using apps like Be Focused, alternates focused work sessions with short breaks, which is perfect for anyone who easily burns out. Pair it with an app like Focus@Will, which plays music that's scientifically chosen to help you concentrate better, and you've got a powerful combo to boost your focus.
Tech for Emotional Well-being: Apps like Moodfit and Sanvello do more than just track your mood; they're filled with tools for handling stress, guided meditation, and even therapy exercises. These can be incredibly helpful, offering a space to work through emotions without pressure, especially beneficial for those with ASD.
It's also important to take regular breaks from technology to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Making sure to schedule time away from screens ensures that tech remains a helpful part of our lives, not a stressor.
Finding Flow with Routines & Tech:
Mixing smart routines with the right tech tools gives us a strong plan for handling the twists and turns of life. It's all about understanding the unique hurdles we face and using every tool at our disposal to grow, feel good, and get things done. This approach doesn't just meet our neurodivergent needs; it celebrates them, shining a light on the unique strengths we bring to the table.
As we keep trying out and adopting these methods, we're building a community that's rich in empathy, support, and wisdom. Sharing our stories and what's worked for us can inspire and guide others walking a similar path.
Learning to embrace our neurodivergence never really ends—it's full of learning and evolving. But the good news? We're not at it alone. Together, with the insights from our community and the help of technology, we can move through life confidently, enjoying the sense of balance and accomplishment we've always wanted.
If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of ADHD and the autism spectrum, remember, understanding and support are within reach. Let’s chat about how these strategies can work for you on a no obligation Good Fit Call.
Are there any routines and/or tech tools that have had a positive impact on your life?
