Posted by Sara T on May 29, 2000, at 19:39:55
In reply to Re: Procrastination Syndrome?, posted by brian on May 29, 2000, at 17:48:09
> > Brian -
> >
> > Since procrastination is a hallmark of Adult ADD (not that I mean to imply that that is your problem), it might be useful to you to look at some of the techniques in books about ADD that address this very issue. Driven to Distration by Ratey and Hallowell is a great source, and there are others.
> >
> > One thing I got from that book was the rule, "Never handle something twice". That refers to paperwork. It means that you get a bill, you deal with it then and you don't have to go back to it. Of course, you need a workable system of doing things and that requires that the PHYSICAL space you work in be organized. Most important, too, is to break the dreaded task down into smaller parts and take it a step at a time. There are coaches, yes, people who can help you get started and keep going. Again, look up some of the ADD sites (CHADD, for instance) and you will see them listed. Once you have your "system" in place, you must not let it fall apart (easier said than done). Again, a coach can help.
> >
> > For me, ritalin has been a godsend because I often can't build up the forward momentum to get started on many things, much to my own detriment.The addition of the stimulant to my AD gets me up and going, but it isn't everything.
> >
> > Changing a lifetime of maladapive habits is HARD work. You have to be motivated to do it. In the end, the answer to procrastination is in our own hands.
> >
> > Sara T.
>
> Thanks Sara,
>
> It is hard work, no question about it. I have read a few books about ADD, including the one that you suggested. I'm not sure what mix of habits, psychology and chemicals make organization and motivation to attack large projects such a challenge for me.
>
> When I moved to NYC last summer, I tried dexetrine for awhile. Actually, I wasn't prescribed it; I just borrowed from a friend who has a prescription. I took it according to my friend's doctor's orders for him. I must say that it really did provide energy and motivation. It really seemed to clear out the fog. It also caused sleeplessnes if I took it too late.
>
> I am seeing a therapist in addition to taking celexa. I think I'll ask him about ADD comorbidity in anxiety/depression. I'll also see about getting some tips or help from him on working out an organizational system.
>
> The funny thing is -- and I'd be interested to hear if this describes you -- I can put forth a great amount of work for short bursts. I'm like life's sprinter. I'll excersize for 4 months, get in great shape, then just let it go. I can write when I absolutely need to -- I write for a living -- then I just get off track and way behind. In other words, I can follow a schedule for a while, but then I just drop it.
>
> Thanks for your suggestions. I'll definately look into this further.
>
> BrianBrian-
In short, YES. In fact that's the type of thing I do that's gotten me to the low place I'm in today. For example, I did a bang up job on my architecture thesis, but I failed to follow through with liscensure. I'm the soul of innconsistency, which is also one of those ADD traits. Its one of the things my husband complains most bitterly about, that I don't finish or follow through on important things. And, yes, I get myself organized and then let it all fall apart. I'm like that with exercize too.Bad news for a parent of a child like mine who needs considerable scheduling to keep him on track (he's mildly autistic, with ADHD and LD).
But I'm trying to learn and it is a day by day process, and when depression gets in the way I have to learn to pick myself up and get back on track again. That's what I'm working on with my therapist now.Depression, anxiety are commonly comorbid with ADD. If you look into it, be careful to go to someone with experience in Adult ADD.
Sara T.
poster:Sara T
thread:34476
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000526/msgs/35152.html