Initiation: Why Getting Started Can Feel Like Building with LEGO Brick
Hey — have you ever looked at a huge pile of LEGO bricks and thought, “Okay… where do I even start?” Maybe it’s a big school project, a mountain of emails, or just your daily to-do list—whether you’re in Phoenix or anywhere else, you’re definitely not alone. And no, you’re not lazy.
Imagine your brain is like a giant LEGO set. Each task is this awesome creation waiting to happen—but first, you gotta figure out how to snap those first pieces together. Remember The LEGO Movie? Emmet, the everyday guy, totally overwhelmed by this wild adventure? That’s kinda like us facing a huge task.
Why Initiation Feels Hard for ADHD & Neurodivergent Brains
So what’s this “initiation” thing? Basically, it’s your brain’s way of flipping the switch from “thinking about doing something” to actually doing it. For some folks, it’s easy—like grabbing that first LEGO piece and clicking it in place.
But for many neurodivergent brains, starting can feel like staring at the instruction manual upside down—confusing and impossible to even begin.
When starting feels like a mountain of LEGO bricks
Maybe you replay how to do something in your head over and over but can’t actually start. Or the first step feels so big you just freeze. Maybe you need a “builder buddy”—someone working alongside you (also known as body doubling for ADHD)—to get moving.
And hey, sometimes there’s that extra frustration or even shame—like you should be able to start, but your brain says nope.
Here’s the truth: struggling to start? Totally not about laziness or willpower. It’s just how your beautifully wired brain works.
Quick-Start Hacks for ADHD & Executive Function
Here are some executive function support–backed tips for snapping those bricks together:
For kids: Break big tasks into tiny, fun steps. Like, build one LEGO piece at a time. Visual cues or “start here” stickers can help. And sometimes, just doing the first 30 seconds with a grown-up makes a huge difference. Bonus points for turning it into a LEGO dance party before you begin!
For teens: Let them make their own “building plan” for tasks. Having a friend nearby to work alongside (body doubling) can be a game changer. Timers, playlists, or apps that make tasks into games can help too. And remember, breaks are okay when the build feels overwhelming.
Two-Minute Rule & Starter Rituals for Phoenix Residents
For adults: Try the “Two-Minute Rule”—just commit to two minutes on a task. Usually, once you place the first brick, you’re off and running. Starter rituals help—lighting a candle, playing your favorite jam, or texting a friend “I’m building now!” And be kind to yourself—ask, “What would make this 10% easier?” instead of being hard on yourself.
Remember—every Master Builder starts with one brick
Whether you’re Emmet or Wyldstyle, getting started is always the hardest part. But every little brick you click into place brings you closer to your masterpiece. Every little brick you click into place is one more win for your neurodivergent initiation strategies.
FAQs about Getting Started with ADHD & Neurodivergence
Q1: What is body doubling?
A: Having someone begin the task alongside you taps into social motivation—perfect for brains that stall on solo initiation.
Q2: How long should my starter ritual be?
A: Even a 30-second cue (music, stretch, candle) can flip your brain’s “go” switch without overwhelming you. Art can also be used intermittently to slow you down.
Q3: Do these hacks work for all ages?
A: Absolutely—from kids using LEGO stickers to adults using the Two-Minute Rule, you can adapt each tip to any stage.
Ready to snap that first brick with real-time support? Join our weekly group sessions in Phoenix for body doubling, executive function coaching, and a tribe of fellow Master Builders.
