Spoon Theory
A metaphor for limited energy in chronic illness and neurodivergence. Each activity costs "spoons" (energy units). When you run out, you can't function — no matter how much willpower you apply.
Spoon theory (created by Christine Miserandino, 2003) explains the experience of limited energy to people who've never experienced it. Healthy people start each day with unlimited "spoons." People with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence start with a limited number.
Everything costs spoons: getting dressed (1 spoon), commuting (2 spoons), a meeting (3 spoons), masking autism all day (10 spoons). When you run out, you physically cannot continue — it's not about willpower.
Relevance to neurodivergence: autistic masking is extremely spoon-intensive. ADHD executive function tasks cost extra spoons. Sensory overload depletes spoons rapidly. Understanding your "spoon budget" helps you make sustainable choices rather than pushing to burnout.