Why 'Trying Harder' Isn't a Strategy

What if the problem isn't motivation… but misunderstanding?

In this episode, we dive deep into executive functioning and the powerful role of "why" in understanding ADHD and neurodivergent children and teens.

Joining me is Dani Donovan — ADHD advocate, comic artist, and author of The Anti-Planner — for an honest and validating conversation about procrastination, overwhelm, shame, and the myth of laziness.

If you've ever thought:

• "Why won't they just do it?"
• "They know what to do — so why aren't they doing it?"
• "Am I doing something wrong as a parent?"
• "Why does trying harder not work?"

This episode is for you.

We explore:

• Why executive functioning struggles are not laziness
• The critical difference between knowing and doing
• Why shame never improves behavior
• How misunderstanding leads to blame
• The emotional experience of ADHD
• Why "trying harder" is not a strategy
• How asking "why?" changes everything
• Practical ways to shift from frustration to curiosity
• Why understanding must come before intervention

For parents, this conversation offers relief and clarity.

For therapists and clinicians, it reinforces the importance of neurodiversity-affirming, emotionally attuned support that reduces shame and builds capacity.

When we understand the why behind executive functioning challenges, we stop seeing a "problem child" — and start seeing a nervous system that needs support.

Because if they could, they would.

🥁🥁🥁🥁 MORE Great information for you!

The 135 School Accommodations for Autistic & ADHD Students Guide is now available, including three detailed cases with accommodations for ONLY $27.95

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Don't miss this opportunity to access 135 neurodiversity-affirming accommodations for only $27.95

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Thank you for your advocacy!

After you get your guide, you can also access these free resources below:) ⬇️

🌟 Get your FREE "Get To Know My Child Snapshot"

Parents click here, Therapists click here, Educators click here

⭐️ Hey Therapists! Come on over for NEURODIVERSITY-AFFIRMING CONTINUING EDUCATION

Enhance your therapeutic approach with our affirming and engaging trainings while earning CE credits to fulfill your professional development requirements, as our courses are approved by the NBCC.

Therapists click here

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About Holly Blanc Moses

Holly Blanc Moses is a neurodivergent psychologist, speaker, consultant, continuing education provider, and host of The Autism ADHD Podcast, Autism ADHD TV, and parent masterclasses.

About Dani Donovan

Dani Donovan is an ADHD content creator, public speaker, and author of The Anti-Planner. Through her viral comics and practical tools, she helps people better understand executive functioning, productivity struggles, and the emotional experience of living with ADHD. Make sure to get The Anti-Planner (clean version) and The Anti-Planner (original version)