Living simply, with ADHD.

[u/Impermanentlyhere]

How does one shift towards a more simple life with dopamine seeking behaviours/habits caused by ADHD? Can anyone relate? I hyperfixate on the next expensive skin product or gym class or influencer or kitchen appliance that I think will make my life better and it all adds up to mental and physical clutter. I have too many possessions and it never feels like enough- I really want to minimise but then I’ll go through a low season and impulse buy more. My brain feels like it wasn’t built in way that’s conducive to a slow, grateful life. It’s always, “what’s next” can anyone relate?

[u/accidentalciso]

Oh, yeah, this is a battle. Dear lord is it a battle. I literally have to practice letting myself be bored and it feels really disorienting when I'm not going 100 miles an hour. What helped for me was learning more about ADHD itself so that I could recognize the patterns and try to develop coping strategies. Understanding myself and how my brain worked differently than others' was huge. There is a book called "Taking Charge of Adult ADHD" that I found to be VERY helpful. It also helped for me to get past the "disability" side of ADHD and stop using it as an excuse, but instead look at the strengths that it gives me, too. Remember, things like creativity and interest-based focus are our superpowers. We just have to learn how to harness them for our benefit! Focus on your strengths to build the life that you want for yourself. It is possible. It isn't always easy, but taking a more strategic and self-aware approach can make a big difference. Hope this helps!