How Being Neurodivergent is like a Real Life Game of Final Fantasy
Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person often feels like embarking on a quest in a “Final Fantasy” game. You encounter various challenges, face seemingly insurmountable odds, and discover unique abilities along the way. Much like the beloved characters in the game, neurodivergent individuals possess strengths and talents that make their journey both unique and empowering. Let’s explore how being neurodivergent parallels the epic adventures of “Final Fantasy”.
The Hero’s Journey: Embracing Your Unique Abilities
In every “Final Fantasy” game, the protagonist embarks on a hero’s journey, discovering their unique abilities and strengths. Similarly, as neurodivergent individuals, we often embark on our own hero’s journey, uncovering our unique traits and learning how to harness them.
Discovering Your Strengths Just like Cloud Strife’s journey to understanding his true identity and strengths in “Final Fantasy VII,” discovering your neurodivergent strengths can be a transformative experience. Whether it’s an exceptional memory, creative problem-solving skills, or hyperfocus, recognizing and embracing these abilities is crucial.
Building Your Party In “Final Fantasy,” heroes never travel alone—they build a party of diverse characters, each with their own strengths. In real life, building a support network of friends, family, and professionals who understand and support your neurodivergent needs is essential. This team can help you navigate challenges and celebrate victories.
Leveling Up: Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Experience
Just as characters in “Final Fantasy” face battles and obstacles, neurodivergent individuals encounter daily challenges that require resilience and adaptability. Each challenge is an opportunity to gain experience and level up.
Facing Daily Battles From managing sensory overload to navigating social interactions, neurodivergent individuals face unique battles every day. Much like grinding through levels in a game, overcoming these challenges builds resilience and strength.
Using Tools and Strategies In “Final Fantasy,” characters use various tools and strategies to overcome obstacles. Similarly, neurodivergent individuals can benefit from tools like planners, sensory aids, and therapeutic strategies. For example, using noise-canceling headphones in a crowded environment can make a significant difference, much like equipping the right gear before a boss battle.
Side Quests: Finding Joy in the Journey
“Final Fantasy” games are filled with side quests that offer rewards and enrich the main story. In life, pursuing interests and hobbies can provide joy and fulfillment beyond the daily grind.
Pursuing Passions Finding and nurturing passions is essential for a fulfilling life. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or diving into a favorite book series, these activities can offer a sense of purpose and joy. Think of them as your personal side quests that add depth to your main storyline.
Building Routines Creating routines can provide structure and reduce anxiety. Just as characters follow a quest log, having a daily routine can help neurodivergent individuals manage their time and energy effectively. Incorporating enjoyable activities into your routine ensures a balanced and fulfilling life.
Boss Battles: Tackling Major Life Challenges
In “Final Fantasy,” boss battles are significant challenges that require strategy and perseverance. In real life, neurodivergent individuals face their own boss battles, from educational hurdles to workplace challenges.
Educational Challenges Navigating the educational system can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent individuals. Whether it’s advocating for accommodations or finding the right learning environment, these challenges are akin to facing a powerful boss. Preparation and support are key to overcoming these obstacles.
Workplace Success Finding and maintaining a job that suits your strengths can be another major battle. Understanding your needs and advocating for accommodations, such as flexible hours or a quiet workspace, can help you succeed. Just like planning a strategy for a tough boss fight, preparing for workplace challenges with the right tools and support is crucial.
Saving Points: Taking Time for Self-Care
In “Final Fantasy,” saving your progress is essential for survival. Similarly, taking time for self-care is crucial for neurodivergent individuals to maintain their well-being.
Importance of Breaks Regular breaks and downtime are necessary to recharge and avoid burnout. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a favorite TV show, or a nap, taking time to relax is essential. Think of it as finding a save point to restore your health and energy.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Incorporating mindfulness practices can help manage stress and improve mental clarity. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even playing a calming video game can be effective ways to relax and reset.
Conclusion
Being neurodivergent is like living in a real-life “Final Fantasy” game, full of challenges, adventures, and unique abilities. By embracing your strengths, building a supportive network, pursuing your passions, and taking time for self-care, you can navigate your journey with confidence and resilience. Remember, like any epic quest, the goal is not perfection but progress and self-discovery.
Ready to embrace your strengths as a neurodivergent mom? Download the Neurodivergent Mom’s Self-Discovery and Empowerment Toolkit and start your journey toward empowerment today.
Kori
