OK, I admit it. I have ADD. No, I’ve not been officially diagnosed, but I recognize the symptoms. I can’t seem to finish any one thing, instead leaping from one thing to another. At the end of the day, I feel like I’ve accomplished nothing. It’s not that I have accomplished nothing, it’s just that nothing got finished! In fact, as I sit here and write, I’m doing laundry, cleaning up the studio, unpacking, and making phone calls. I just thought I was overdue for a blog entry, so here I am. Ah, but what to write about? How about this phenomenon? Wait a minute while I put the clothes into the dryer. . . .
OK, I’m back.
So why the connection between ADD and creativity? Creative minds seem to be all over the place at once – examining, synthesizing, figuring things out, making things better, noticing things, appreciating beauty. Is this not a list of ADD behaviors too? It’s just hard to BE in stillness. The only way I get into any kind of zone is when I am immersed in creating something – but the truth be known, the ADD sometimes gets me stuck at organizing first, so I can “relax” into the process. We see possibilities in everything. We hoard objects (another ADD/OCD type behavior), knowing they will come in handy for some future project. I know I’m not alone in this, after talking to so many other artists about it.
Maybe we create art, because we have ADD – just so we have an outlet to calm ourselves sometimes. It’s the only way we can still our minds, even if only for a short time.
Well, I’m feeling guilty that there is so much else I should be doing and am procrastinating because I hate to do them (like bills, and taxes). But before I go, I need to confess . . . . .
I interrupted this post 9 times: to take/make 2 phone calls, wash, dry or fold clothes, eat (twice), check email, Search for a restaurant online, make a reservation, watch a Ted Talk and let the dogs in or out a few times.
Oh no. Will anything get done (finished) today?
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