Episode 279: The Quiet Season: Healing, Routine, and “Nothing to Talk About” - Patricia Young

Patricia (she/her) reflects on a quiet, low-drama season of life and how emotional regulation, routine, and healing can create a sense of calm—but also unexpected challenges for creativity and productivity. She shares honest insights about AuDHD, executive functioning struggles, and the difficulty of initiating tasks when life slows down. Patricia also explores her deep connection to animals, the role of caregiving in neurodivergent lives, and how simplicity, routine, and lower expectations are supporting her wellbeing right now.

WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

Living with less emotional reactivity can feel unfamiliar (and even uncomfortable)
A calm, drama-free life may feel “boring”… but it’s actually a sign of healing
Creativity doesn’t always flow when life is stable and predictable
Many neurodivergent folks create best from lived experience, not forced topics
Lowering expectations can reduce overwhelm and increase peace
Routine (like paddling, aquafit, dog walks) provides grounding and stability
Executive functioning challenges can show up more when external pressure is low
“Nothing getting done” ≠ failure — it may reflect a nervous system shift
Caretaking (especially of animals) can feel easier than self-care
A strong sense of responsibility can override inertia for others, but not for self
Animals provide emotional regulation, connection, and daily structure
Grief around pets looks different for different people—and that’s valid
Neurodivergent people may deeply bond with animals in a way that feels natural and fulfilling
Life becoming “smaller” can be a protective, restorative phase
It’s okay to pause, slow down, or rethink content creation rhythms

SOUND BITES

“There just is not a lot of drama going on in my life—and I am deeply, deeply grateful.”
“It feels like a very simple, quiet time in my life… which I really appreciate.”
“I do my best recording when something is happening—and right now, things are just calm.”
“Sometimes it’s easier to take care of others than it is to take care of ourselves.”
“It’s okay when there’s not a lot going on.”

SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren’t built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

PODCAST HOST

Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

SOUND BITES

SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

PODCAST HOST

LINKS