GAH! WHY?! Why can’t I focus and get cleaning done? Why can’t I even focus on the games I like? Or books? Or videos or TV? Why is it so hard today?

Have you considered your brain works differently than those around you?

Yes, but that doesn’t help me if I don’t know how to manipulate it!

How about-

I don’t want to go to a doctor right now. Last time I tried to bring up this concern, it was brushed off.

Do it anyway. I know it’s unnerving, but-

I don’t want more pills I’ll forget to take. I need to figure out how to work with this.

Well, that long walk last night seemed to do the trick, at least somewhat. Or when you start writing absolute nonsense at the speed of a mad woman.

Yeah, but I can’t always do either of those, either due to where I’m at or weather or supplies at hand… Besides, walking 2 miles just because I’m frustrated, restless, or can’t focus really isn’t feasible at the moment just as is.

That’s true, but you can find a solution for those times that walking or writing won’t work. “Daydreaming,” for lack of a better term, also seems to focus you down.

Yeah- not really daydreaming but intentionally writing a story in my mind while I work on things… That does help sometimes. Other times, it gives me a headache.

That’s because you’re tensing up and stressing about other things, kid. As you figure things out, you’ll be fine.

What if it’s not fine? What if I can’t ever get this under control because I don’t want to go get medication for it? What if it’s not something that can be treated or helped and I’m just not normal? What if-

You read enough books to know what I’m about to tell you. You can “what if” yourself to death, kid. Instead, let’s look at what you’ve got going. You’ve got three potential ways to help you focus. You’re finding new ways to help yourself all the time. And if you don’t go to a doctor or therapist or psychiatrist? That’s fine, so long as you’re willing to accept the consequences of not accepting help and learn how to handle it without a professional.

Stop being so rational.

I am literally the rational part of your brain given a voice and personality. Can’t help it. Learn and grow, kid, that’s all you can do. That’s all anyone can do, at the end of the day. You can do this. Countless people do every day, with or without professional help.

Yeah… Yeah, I guess you’re right. Though remind me to be smarter the next time I want a two mile walk. That hill was brutal on my knee.

Sure thing, kid. If you’ll listen.