Coping with RSD: What is Minimization?

Minimization looks like a devaluing of one’s opportunities. What I mean is that when the RSD person perceives a high chance of failure, they may deprioritize the outcome as though they never cared that much to begin with in order to minimize what they perceive as an inevitably painful experience. Usually, this coping mechanism comes as a step later in a preparation sequence. First, the ADHD individual commits to do something that will require them to spend time preparing in advance. Second, they feel as though they cannot manage the prep work effectively either due to procrastination or not having clarity on the expectations. Third, they decide not to back out. Fourth, they minimize. Fifth, whether they were doing their best or winging it, they feel less attached to the outcome, due to the minimization prior to the attempt.