Lists are the glue to my sanity, wellbeing, survival, functioning. There would be no moi, without lists. Lists obviously serve a few purposes. Number one on that list is they help calm my anxiety. Anxiety is fear of the unknown, right? Well, lists help me plan for the future in the ways that I am able to – control what is in my control. Which settles me.
The way I think about it is, everyone’s brain is dysfunctioning in one way or another. I don’t think anyone is exempt from a sprinkle of dysfunction. My personal variety of dysfunction (I believe as a result of social anxiety and ADHD) show up as forgetfulness, remembering small details, worry, nonchalance, hyperfocus, not focused at all… see the theme here? I…. my brain… is inconsistent.
I think the resolution to each person’s own variety of dysfunction is finding a system that works with your brain instead of against it. Can’t remember dates? Instead of trying your hardest to hold on to the date and depend on a faulty system. Write it down in your calendar immediately (or whatever system works for you).
After nearly 30 years of dysfunctioning, and honestly, not even knowing I was dysfunctioning for most of that time. I was just constantly bothered by myself and my forgetfulness. But 30 years later, I’m starting to figure it out. By no means have I mastered this, and I don’t ever expect it to be perfect. I still forget plenty, make careless mistakes, ADHD all over everything honestly. It has gotten better though and I feel a sense of relief, calm, and simply happiness to be working with my brain instead of against it now. Sweet relief.
Explore my various lists here!
