Direct vs. Indirect Attention: A Sustainable Approach to Focus for Neurodivergent Creatives

If you’ve ever felt like your brain just shuts off after too much focus, you’re not alone. As neurodivergent creatives, our attention works differently. Understanding the difference between direct and indirect attention can help us manage focus sustainably—so we don’t burn out while trying to chase our creative goals.

Direct Attention: The Effortful Focus

Direct attention (also called voluntary or focused attention) is when we actively choose to concentrate on something. It’s the kind of focus that requires effort, and if we use it too long without breaks, it drains our mental energy.

Examples of Direct Attention:

• Writing a script and structuring the storyline.

• Editing a video and making precise cuts.

• Studying a filmmaking technique and taking notes.

• Responding to emails and organizing tasks.

This kind of focus is necessary, but it’s also limited. It runs out faster if we push too hard, which is why long, uninterrupted work sessions often leave us exhausted and struggling to concentrate - and maybe prevents us from continuing our work the next day, leading us to lose momentum and motivation.

Indirect Attention: The Effortless Recharge

Indirect attention (also called involuntary or effortless attention) is when our mind focuses naturally without forcing it. It’s the type of attention that restores our ability to focus, giving our brains the reset they need to be creative and productive again.

Examples of Indirect Attention:

• Watching clouds move or staring at a candle flame.

• Going for a walk and letting your mind wander.

• Doodling or fidgeting while listening to music.

• Letting ideas flow in the shower or while doing the dishes.

Engaging in indirect attention activities doesn’t drain our energy—it recharges it. This is why breakthroughs often happen when we step away from our work rather than when we force ourselves to keep going.

Passive attention and taking breaks recharges our focus, so we work better instead of wasting energy.

Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast

If you’ve ever pushed yourself to the point of burnout, you know that working harder isn’t always the answer. The truth is, progress isn’t about speed—it’s about sustainability.

The phrase “slow is smooth, smooth is fast” - employed by the US Navy SEALS - applies here. Rushing through tasks without breaks leads to mistakes, frustration, and exhaustion. But when we slow down, give our brains space to rest, and cycle between direct and indirect attention, we actually work more efficiently over time.

How to Balance Direct and Indirect Attention

Instead of trying to push through mental fatigue, use these strategies to make focus sustainable:

✅ Take Movement Breaks – Stretch, walk, or do light exercise to reset your mind. ✅ Spend Time in Nature – Step outside, observe trees, listen to birds. ✅ Use the Pomodoro Technique – Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. ✅ Engage in Playful Activities – Doodle, build something, or play a simple game. ✅ Listen to Music or Background Sounds – Let your mind recharge with ambient sounds. ✅ Practice Mindfulness or Daydreaming – Give yourself permission to zone out without guilt.

Slow Down to Speed Up

You don’t have to do everything all at once. Giving yourself time to rest isn’t lazy—it’s necessary for long-term success. By cycling between deep focus and natural mental resets, you’ll be able to sustain your creativity, make meaningful progress, and actually enjoy the process.

So, if you feel stuck, tired, or unfocused, try stepping away. Let your brain reset. When you come back, you might find that focus and inspiration flow effortlessly—just like they’re meant to.

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What do you do to rest your mind and reset? Comment below!