Real Learning Problems or Just Laziness?

Reader’s Question

Before I begin, let me thank you for your time and this service. Here is my problem: ever since I can remember I have been lazy to learn.

What I mean is that I am selective about the things I might find interesting, and I learn those things well. But when it comes to studying for anything I don’t really care for yet still need to know, I have the hardest time making myself learn. I want to know if I have a minor case of ADD that was never diagnosed as a kid and I am suffering from as an adult — or if I am just plain lazy when it comes to learning.

I would work out physically every day if my wife let me. I’m not lazy at all when it comes to physical labor or other things. But when it comes to learning certain things, I really have a problem. I hope you have an answer because I really would like to work on resolving this. Thanks again.

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

If it were a matter of general laziness, you’d most likely find yourself struggling to do many things that require effort but aren’t particularly attractive to you. That said, however, the two things you mention that you put effort into (i.e., physical labor and physical workouts) seem to be things that you enjoy and would do “every day” if you could.

Folks with ADD are able to focus better (i.e., not labor so hard to concentrate) when they’re dealing with things that are sufficiently stimulating. Similarly, if they have some specific learning disabilities, they don’t relish the extra effort it takes to maintain focus and process information or persist on task.

Your situation need not be an “either-or” type of scenario. You might indeed be struggling with some difficulties concentrating and learning, some problems maintaining motivation, as well as dealing with a learned bad habit of avoiding the uncomfortable. In any case, you’d do well to visit with a professional who specializes in treating adults with attentional, motivational, or learning problems. You might find that with good counseling and care you can enrich your life and your base of knowledge considerably.