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Becoming Yourself Counselling and Consulting

Why Rest is Productive: Redefining Work for Neurodivergent Minds

Michael Holker HBA BSW MSW

Redefining Productivity for Neurodivergent Minds

In today's fast-paced world, productivity is often measured by constant activity, nonstop hustle, and high output. However, for neurodivergent individuals—especially those with ADHD—this traditional view of productivity can be exhausting and counterproductive. Focusing on keywords like productivity ADHD, neurodivergent productivity, and rest and self-care ADHD, this blog delves into why rest is not the enemy of productivity but a crucial component of sustainable success and wellbeing.

The Challenge of Hustle Culture for Neurodivergent Minds

Hustle culture promotes the idea that productivity means doing more, faster, and without breaks. For neurodivergent adults, particularly those with ADHD, this approach often ignores the unique ways their brains function. ADHD brains can experience intense bursts of focus but also rapid fatigue, difficulty sustaining attention, and overwhelming sensory inputs that make continuous productivity unrealistic.

Such relentless pressure breeds burnout, anxiety, and feelings of failure when neurodivergent individuals cannot meet these unrealistic expectations. This disconnect calls for a redefinition of productivity that honors neurodivergent needs instead of pushing against them.

Redefining Neurodivergent Productivity

Neurodivergent productivity means recognizing that output is not just about quantity but about quality, pacing, and sustainability. It involves understanding:

  • The need for flexible schedules that allow for focused work followed by intentional rest.
  • The value of downtime as an essential period for cognitive and emotional processing.
  • That pacing activities prevents overwhelm and promotes longer-lasting productivity.
  • How self-care practices, including rest, support executive functioning and creativity.

This approach shifts from a "go-go-go" mentality to one where rest and work coexist harmoniously.

Why Rest and Self-Care are Essential for ADHD Productivity

For those living with ADHD, rest and self-care ADHD are not luxuries—they are necessities. Research and lived experience consistently show that neurodivergent brains require adequate rest to reset cognitive resources, manage stress, and maintain emotional balance.

Incorporating rest breaks, engaging in activities that soothe sensory sensitivities, and allowing for varied energy levels help maintain sustained productivity over time. Rest also improves memory consolidation and problem-solving skills, directly boosting the effectiveness of focused work periods.

Putting New Productivity into Practice

Michael Holker from Becoming Yourself advocates for incorporating rest as an intentional part of neurodivergent productivity strategies. This includes:

  • Creating personalized routines that integrate work and rest in ways that feel natural and manageable.
  • Learning to recognize signs of cognitive fatigue and honoring them with restorative activities.
  • Letting go of guilt around taking breaks and reframing them as productive choices.
  • Building supportive environments that respect pacing needs.

Conclusion

Redefining productivity for neurodivergent minds means rejecting harmful hustle culture and embracing rest as a form of productivity itself. When rest, downtime, and pacing are prioritized, neurodivergent individuals can experience long-term wellbeing, deeper creativity, and sustainable success.

This transformative outlook is at the heart of the philosophy embraced by Becoming Yourself, Registered Social Worker and Online Psychotherapist Michael Holker, who offers guidance on integrating rest and self-care into effective productivity approaches tailored for neurodivergent adults.

If burnout, overwhelm, or unrealistic productivity pressures feel all too familiar, consider connecting with Becoming Yourself or if you’d like to explore your therapy goals, you’re welcome to connect with Becoming Yourself Counselling & Consulting. 

Michael Holker, MSW, RSW, offers psychotherapy and counselling for adults in Ontario. You can learn more about my services and approach here.

You are welcome to reach out to learn more or to request a free Meet-and-Greet to see if this support is right for you.

Blog Disclaimer:

Personal Anecdotes and Confidentiality

You may encounter personal anecdotes within the content. These stories illustrate concepts and foster a sense of connection. Details have been changed to protect confidentiality, ensuring that no identifying information is shared. I often use these personal anecdotes to convey ideas while safeguarding individuals' privacy. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Disclaimer

Please note that the information shared here is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or conditions you may have.

Given the diversity of life experiences, not all messages may resonate with everyone. This blog is not a substitute for professional mental health care. For specialized guidance, consult a licensed professional.

Psychotherapy services are available to residents of Ontario. Please get in touch with me for more information about my practice and to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation.

We hope you will find these resources beneficial as you pursue a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Michael Holker HBA BSW MSW

Michael Holker HBA BSW MSW

Michael is the compassionate heart behind Becoming Yourself Counselling. A therapist with a deeply personal journey, Michael discovered his own neurodivergence later in life, transforming his lived experiences into the foundation of his therapeutic approach. Michael understands firsthand the power of self-compassion, self-acceptance, and embracing one’s authentic self, especially for neurodivergent individuals who often feel misunderstood or isolated. He has made it his mission to guide clients in finding their unique paths toward self-discovery and well-being. In both his writing and his practice, Michael combines a humanistic and strengths-based approach with a rich understanding of existential and mindfulness-based therapies. His work is not just about overcoming obstacles but about honouring each person’s journey, helping clients tap into their inner resilience, and fostering a sense of self. With warmth, insight, and a genuine commitment to growth, Michael welcomes individuals who seek to embrace their authentic selves and live with greater authenticity and acceptance..