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Planning is an integral aspect of executive function—a set of cognitive skills that help us organize thoughts, make decisions, and act accordingly. While often considered inherent, it's crucial to recognize that these skills can be honed and refined. This is especially true for neurodiverse individuals, for whom executive functions like planning can present unique challenges and opportunities. The underlying assumption here is that the brain possesses a quality known as neuroplasticity, the ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience.
The Beliefs That Drive Your Planning Skills
Our belief system shapes how we approach any task, including planning. Two common beliefs that can hamper our planning abilities include:
1. Perfectionism: The belief that everything needs to be perfect often paralyzes us, causing planning paralysis. In our 14 week program we talk at length about this and what might be motivating perfectionism.
2. Instant Gratification: A preference for immediate rewards over long-term gains can derail our planning skills.
Conversely, embracing beliefs like incremental progress and the value of mistakes can improve our ability to plan effectively.
Reflective Question: What beliefs do you hold about planning? Are they helping you, or do they need an overhaul?
Techniques and Hints to Improve Planning Skills
1. Start Small: A big project may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks can make planning easier. Desmond Tutu once wisely said that “there is only one way to eat an elephant: a bite at a time.”
2. Prioritize: Use a tool such as the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks as Urgent, Important, both, or neither.
3. Set Deadlines: A plan without a deadline is merely a wish. Deadlines give you something to aim for.
Additional tools and strategies may be required to please your neurotype: you could also consider the following:
1. Visual Aids: Utilize charts or vision boards that offer a sensory-friendly approach to planning.
2. Timers and Reminders: Software tools or physical timers can provide structure and alleviate the cognitive load.
3. Flexible Plans: Allow some room for change or mistakes, which is especially beneficial for those whose neuro type thrives on spontaneity.
Neuroplasticity and Its Impact on Planning Skills
The concept of neuroplasticity provides hope for improving executive function. Research shows that targeted training can help develop new neural pathways, which is promising for those of us who struggle with believing we can change. Dr. Lara Boyd, in her TEDx talk "After watching this, your brain will not be the same," discusses how neuroplasticity gives us the ability to shape the brain we want. Boyd argues that our behavior, our environment, and even our thoughts can influence our neural networks. For the neurodiverse, this could mean that adaptations in planning strategies could result in long-lasting changes in cognitive abilities.
Conclusion
Planning is an evolving skill, subject to our beliefs, methods, and even the plasticity of our brains. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but the ability to improve exists within us all. By adapting our techniques and harnessing the power of neuroplasticity, we're not just making plans; we're planning for success.
Reflective Question: How will you change your planning techniques to benefit from the plasticity of your brain?
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