In this age of rapid and overwhelming information, how does one choose what is important to learn? Opportunities to play are opportunities to learn. Play allows us to imagine ourselves in different realities, in different worlds where the rules are different, where we can be different. In these alternate worlds, we can demand more for ourselves. In these worlds, we can identify our needs and build rules and systems to meet our deepest needs. Just as someone imagined the world you see around you right now; the one in which neurodivergent needs go largely unmet - through play, we can imagine a world in which neurodivergent needs are met.
In this episode of the Embracing Intensity Podcast, host Aurora and Dr. Kimberly Douglas discuss the power of play in decolonizing neurodivergence. Dr. Douglas shares her insights on the relationship between play, imagination, and decolonization, and how they intersect in the context of gaming and world building.
They discuss the power of immersion, imagination, and safety in fostering a state of play, and how play can be a catalyst for expanding thinking and problem-solving. They explore the connection between play and power dynamics in society, particularly within the context of colonization. Dr. Douglas also shares her perspective on the need to decolonize neurodivergence and challenge oppressive systems that limit the expression of neurodivergent identities. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the possibilities and challenges of embracing play and creativity as tools for personal and societal transformation.
Stay tuned for this insightful conversation on play, decolonization, and embracing neurodivergent identities. Make sure to check out Dr. Kimberly Douglas' work and follow her on social media for more valuable insights.
Dr Kimberly Douglass is coach/consultant to Neurodivergent Adults.
Dr Douglass is currently constructing the first design studio of its kind, run by AuDHDers, for AuDHDers.
Dr Douglass became a full-time coach after working as staff, peer-reviewed researcher, faculty and administrator in higher education for over 17 years. She began the neurodivergence advocacy work over 13 years ago when she became the chief advocate for her Son who is neurodivergent. She has since gotten more in touch with her own neurodivergence. Dr Douglass is married to Dean Tate and lives in Tennessee.
In this episode:
Dr. Douglas shares her background and expertise in working with neurodivergent individuals.
The importance of safety and immersion in fostering a state of play.
Play encourages imagination, ideation, and thinking outside the box
The relationship between play and imagination, and the role of play in expanding thinking and problem-solving.
How neurodivergence challenges societal expectations and the worker role
The connection between play and power dynamics in society, and the need to decolonize neurodivergence.
Why decolonizing neurodivergence requires understanding larger systems of oppression
The possibilities and challenges of embracing play and creativity as tools for personal and societal transformation.
Permission to play and decolonize can bring up grief but also opens up possibilities
Resources:
Dr. Kimberly Douglass on TikTok
Learn more about Dr. Kimberly Douglass
I Must be Bug'n Podcast w/ Sheldon Gay
Are you a gifted or neurodivergent perfectionist struggling to overcome the damaging effects of perfectionism?
In this episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora Remember Holtzman invites special guest Aileen Kelleher, a therapist and life coach, to delve into the topic of overcoming perfectionism. Together, they explore the intersection between perfectionism and giftedness and discuss the various ways in which perfectionism can impact our lives. From high expectations and low self-esteem to time limits and parental expectations, Aurora and Aileen shed light on the challenges faced by perfectionists and provide practical strategies for managing perfectionistic tendencies and fostering self-compassion.
Join the Embracing Intensity community at embracingintensity.com to dive deeper into understanding and overcoming your own perfectionism. Gain access to courses, tools, and support from like-minded individuals who appreciate and celebrate the power of high personal standards. You can also, explore the free self-regulation workbook for gifted and neurodivergent adults, titled "Harnessing the Power of Your Intensity," which offers a practical guide for overcoming perfectionism and embracing your unique abilities. Visit the show notes or embracingintensity.com for more information and resources.
In this episode:
- The definition and negative impact of perfectionism, including its association with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
- Overlaps between perfectionism and giftedness, such as high expectations, sensitivity, and self-criticism.
- The unhealthy coping mechanisms often employed by perfectionists, such as procrastination and avoidance.
- Strategies for managing perfectionism, including incremental steps, setting realistic goals, and practicing self-compassion.
- The importance of recognizing and embracing the messy nature of overcoming perfectionism and learning new skills.
- The role of self-compassion and cultivating present-moment awareness in overcoming perfectionism and achieving high performance.
- The damaging effects of perfectionism on daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being.
- Practical tips for parents and educators to support gifted children and help them navigate the pressures of perfectionism.
- The unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in managing perfectionistic behaviors and finding balance in their lives.
By addressing the problem of perfectionism and providing practical strategies for overcoming it, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance for high achievers, gifted individuals, and neurodivergent adults who struggle with the damaging effects of perfectionism in their own lives. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of perfectionism and learn how to cultivate self-compassion and embrace your unique abilities.
Resources: