Bottom-up vs. Top-down
Bottom-up means working with the body and the environment first. It does not involve any thinking, point-of-performance decisions, or mental exercises. The expectation is that changes in the body will eventually support improved mental functioning. Bottom-up strategies are like train tracks that take a lot of work up front, but once they are built, it is more effortless to get to the destination.
Top-down means working with thoughts and mental strategies first. It starts in the head with continuous decisions throughout the day and works its way down to supporting the body. Top-down strategies are like management of the trains, train schedules, baggage claim, and passenger tickets.
Both are necessary for success.
Example with weight loss:
Bottom-up weight loss strategy would be to take a diet pill that suppresses appetite, so that no choices need to be made about food directly.
Top-down weight loss strategy would be to count calories at every meal and inhibit any excess above daily target intake.
Example with ADHD:
Bottom-up ADHD strategy would be to take medication.
Top-down ADHD strategy would be to use calendars and reminders.
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