Why its normal for ADHD brains to switch from high gear to low gear suddenly.

I have noticed the energy fluctuations ADHDers experience. Sometimes they are in the zone and productivity is high. They feel confident, proud and effective. It’s as if all the barriers to completing tasks have disappeared. On these days, people are amazed at the output.

There is so much reward for external productivity, all the way back to childhood. People notice. People compliment.

So what about internal productivity and rest?

How often do we stigmatise resting as laziness? It doesn’t really make sense though, right? You can’t drive a car without petrol in the tank — what about brains and bodies? Why are we still thinking about rest as an indulgence?

Here’s the thing: when ADHDers rest, they are recharging — but they are also reflecting, which is essential for learning. They are percolating change, engaging in fun or pleasurable activities, thinking creative thoughts, planning future activities, collecting ideas and inspiration.

When our car switches gears, we accept this is normal and necessary. When we switch gears, we grieve the feelings of confidence, pride and effectiveness that come from being externally productive — because we haven’t yet learned to place equal importance on internal productivity and rest.

Just some ideas to percolate when your brain next switches gears.