Rethinking Motivation: Jeff Copper's Insights on ADHD
Episode Overview
Cognitive ergonomics helps adjust tasks to fit cognitive abilities. Motivation in ADHD involves more effort due to executive function impairments. Direct oral conversations can relieve cognitive strain and enhance productivity. Traditional methods like willpower may not be sustainable for motivation. Self-awareness and emotional regulation are key in managing ADHD.
"It's not about training your brain to fit the task; it's about adjusting the task to fit your brain."
Ever wondered what it takes to find motivation when living with ADHD? This episode of ADHD Focus, hosted by Dr. David Pomeroy, brings in Jeff Copper, an ADHD coach and the Chief Engineer of Cognitive Ergonomics, to tackle this very question. Copper introduces the concept of cognitive ergonomics, a novel approach to understanding and managing ADHD by adjusting tasks to fit one's cognitive abilities rather than forcing the brain to adapt.
The conversation sheds light on how ADHD affects executive functions, which are crucial for problem-solving and goal-directed behaviour. Copper and Pomeroy discuss how motivation is often misunderstood in the context of ADHD, where individuals are frequently perceived as lazy or unmotivated. However, Copper argues that those with ADHD actually exert more effort to achieve the same results due to their executive function impairments.
Listeners are treated to an engaging discussion on how traditional methods like willpower and rewards might not be effective long-term solutions for motivation. Instead, Copper suggests adaptive accommodations, such as direct oral conversations, as a means to alleviate cognitive strain and enhance productivity. With humour and insight, the episode provides practical advice for those living with ADHD, encouraging them to embrace their unique cognitive processes.
So, if you're looking for fresh perspectives on motivation and ADHD, this episode is a must-listen. How do you adapt your environment to better fit your cognitive needs?