Lazy is a Lie: A Gentle Clarification for Neurotypicals

Ever hear someone describe a student, coworker, or even your own child as "lazy"? You know the scenario: eyes rolling, deep sigh, followed by the pronouncement, "They could do it if they just tried harder." Well, brace yourselves, dear neurotypicals—because "lazy" isn't just misguided; it's a flat-out lie.

Yes, I said it. Lazy is a lie.

Let’s unpack this gently (but firmly). What you're labeling as laziness is often just a difference in how someone's brain processes tasks. Imagine asking a fish to climb a tree, then calling it lazy when it doesn’t. Absurd, right? Yet, that’s exactly how neurodivergent folks often feel.

You see, when you're wired differently, the straightforward route can seem like an obstacle course. Tasks that appear "simple"—cleaning a room, finishing homework, answering emails—may actually require Herculean effort, not because of unwillingness, but because our brains connect dots in unconventional, sometimes wildly creative, ways.

But here’s the beautiful twist: that same brain wiring allows neurodivergent minds—us sparkies—to create complex solutions, unique insights, and innovate like nobody's business. We're often the ones spotting connections others miss or crafting ideas that seem "outside the box" because, well, we never really saw the box in the first place.

“I’m Not Lazy" is part of my NeuroX collection celebrating neurodivergent truths.

Teachers, parents, employers—here's a hot tip: when you embrace neurodivergent individuals as they are, when you meet us where we’re at rather than shoving us into uncomfortable molds, everyone wins. Productivity increases, stress decreases, and innovation blossoms. It's a bit magical, really.

So let's ditch the lazy label. Instead, try curiosity: What's the roadblock? Can we approach this differently? Could a tweak in routine, a change in environment, or simply a bit more patience unleash someone's true potential? Or maybe, just maybe, the best strategy is to step back, be patient, and allow your sparkie the space to think and create unmolested. You might be amazed at what emerges when they're allowed to simply be themselves.

Remember, we might all be better off being exactly who we are, doing exactly what we're great at. Let's retire "lazy" to the dictionary of outdated terms and replace it with understanding, flexibility, and appreciation.

Because trust me—lazy was never real, anyway.

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If this post resonates with you, please consider:

Reading "The Ant and The Grasshopper: an Updated Fable" published in the Tinderbox section of Byrne Alive.

Checking out the NeuroX Collection in the Smuggled Sparks Store.