Break Free from Force-Based Work

Many of us can feel we need to force ourselves to make things happen, whether by waiting for a deadline, shaming ourselves, writing the same task over and over again, and more. Learn how to begin moving forward with a gentler step, a Visit.

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The Rhythms of Focus Podcast

Rhythms of Focus is a mindfulness-based productivity podcast for those with wandering minds, ADHD, and beyond who seek a gentler approach to mastery and meaningful work.

Ever find yourself cleaning the closet or deep in a video game while a deadline quietly sneaks up behind you? In this episode of Rhythms of Focus, we unravel the real story behind procrastination for adults with wandering minds and ADHD. Instead of blaming laziness or lack of willpower, we explore how avoidance can be…
In this extended episode, professional philosopher Dr. Joel Anderson engages in a deep and stimulating conversation about Wandering Minds, ADHD, and Beyond with our host Dr. Kourosh Dini. Discussing philosophical and practical issues around agency, procrastination, and the balance between forcing oneself and creating affording conditions, they explore the concept of ‘agentic play,’ the importance…
Ever notice how your focus sharpens right before a looming deadline, as if the ticking clock finally sweeps away distraction? This episode of *Rhythms of Focus* dives beneath that familiar surge, exploring why urgency can both ignite and exhaust wandering minds—especially for adults with ADHD. Join me as we untangle the hidden costs of deadline-driven…
Feeling trapped by rigid productivity hacks or the pressure to “just start”? This episode of Rhythms of Focus invites you to reimagine focus—not as a battle of willpower, but as a gentle practice of agency. For adults with ADHD and wandering minds, agency is the skill of deciding and engaging non-reactively, even when emotions or…
Feeling stuck waiting for motivation to strike? In this episode of Rhythms of Focus, we explore a gentler, agency-driven approach to productivity-especially for creative professionals, high-achievers with ADHD, and anyone whose mind tends to wander. Instead of relying on force, deadlines, or shame, discover how small, mindful “visits” and emotional rhythms can help you move…
Caught in the tug-of-war between “should do” and “want to do”? You’re not alone. In this episode of Rhythms of Focus, we unravel the hidden dance between dopamine, motivation, and the pursuit of mastery-especially for those with wandering minds and ADHD. We’ll explore why chasing dopamine hits can leave us feeling empty, and how shifting…
What if your struggles with focus weren’t a moral failing, but simply a different rhythm—one that can be guided with care rather than shame? In this episode of *Rhythms of Focus*, we explore the well-worn path of self-blame that so many adults with ADHD and wandering minds know all too well. Together, we’ll consider how…
In this episode of Rhythms of Focus, we explore the paradoxical power and challenge of living with a wandering mind, whether of ADHD or otherwise. Ever notice how, when the winds are right, you can ride a wave of creativity and clarity—only to later find yourself scattered, lost, or exhausted when the tide shifts? In…
What do you do when you struggle to engage? In this episode of Rhythms of Focus, we explore how wandering minds-especially those with ADHD-can find a gentler, more sustainable path to meaningful productivity. We’ll explore a “Visit” as a unit of work, a simple, agency-enhancing practice that transforms focus from a battle into a series…
S01E01 – Rhythms of Focus: Hello, Fellow Wandering Mind! Summary In this episode, we explore the concept of a ‘Wandering Mind’ as an alternative to the medicalized term ADHD, delving into its multifaceted nature encompassing both challenges and beauties. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, the speaker discusses how societal perceptions often simplify complex symptoms,…

About the Author

Contact: wander at rhythmsoffocus.com

Kourosh Dini, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, author, and musician.

He has created a course and community for those struggling with ADHD and other “wandering minds”, i.e. those struggling with managing their work and where they’d like their minds to be. He has also written several books and courses.

His years of musicianship and writing would tap into the same needs with which many with ADHD struggle, the need to find play and be creative in the day. Meanwhile, making it through medical school and building a practice, managing a family and generally connecting with responsibility would of course all need addressing.

Through the years of working with both clients and himself, Dr. Dini has been able to craft methods of moving away from the common fear-based methods of arranging work to those that are more based on creativity.

Dr. Dini currently maintains a psychiatric and therapy-based private practice in Chicago, IL

Education includes:

  • Northwestern University – Integrated Science Program, BA
  • Northwestern University – Neuroscience
  • University of Illinois at Chicago Medical School
  • University of Illinois at Chicago – Adult Psychiatry Residency
  • University of Chicago – Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship
  • Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute – Psychoanalytic Training