Autistic Inertia (problems with switching task) tips?

Hello again!

I have recently learned about autistic inertia thanks to Pete Wharmby's book Un-typicaI and have realised this is something I really struggle with but hadn't really given it any thought, until now.

Very briefly Autistic inertia, for anyone who doesn't know, is a difficulty switching tasks (even if you want to). Here's some light further reading - https://autismawarenesscentre.com/what-is-autistic-inertia/

The example Pete gave in his book so perfectly encapsulated my experience, reading a book but wanting a cup of tea. In this example, I can see myself getting up, making the tea, and then sitting and enjoying the tea while I continue to read. I am happy to get up and make the tea but I just...don't. I want to but something blocks me from switching my focus from reading to getting up and making tea.

Of course, this is just one example that doesn't have any major ramifications but it does impact other areas of my life. I wondered whether anyone had any tips or tricks for getting through this? If you also experience this, how do you switch tasks effectively?

Parents Reply
  • That makes complete sense. I see all the really minute steps for a lot of things in my head e.g. making tea isn't just make tea it's a stream of smaller tasks and steps which include stop task, stand up, walk to kitchen, put on kettle etc. etc. Which is why I think I get easily overwhelmed. I don't need to be imagining opening the fridge before I've even stood up, for example. 

    I get inertia when trying to talk to people as well which can also be frustrating. 

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