For people struggling with this, I recommend the Fair Play book/deck by Eve Rodsky. The book breaks down household tasks and responsibilities to make it clear which partner is responsible for which tasks. It’s extremely unfortunate that this is such a prevalent issue, but assuming that people are with loving partners who are willing to make the effort, the Fair Play book/deck is a great tool to work through this.

Exercise definitely isn’t a fix all. It can help manage and improve anxiety and depression over time, but it isn’t going to accomplish that much the first time you start exercising.

I can definitely see that you have additional challenges as a neurodivergent person in navigating the physical discomfort of exercise as well as creating routines.

If you become open to trying again, I recommend starting a lot smaller so that you find a physical activity that is manageable and sustainable for your activity level. This can look like 10 minutes of extra walking a day. Or this can also look like body weight exercises (eg. 20 seconds of a plank, 5 curl ups, assisted push ups against a wall or table, etc). The best way of making exercise sustainable is to start small and slow. Minimize your physical discomfort (sweatiness and muscle pain). This is still more effective than doing nothing at all. You don’t want to push yourself so hard that you get completely turned off to the idea of exercising.

There are individual differences of course, but cat colors do have some correlation with personality. People who work with animals often in rescue or other work often observe this. I’ve worked in rescue before and can agree.

Ones that I can think of off the top of my head:

• Orange: zany and spazzy
• Black: more chatty than you expect

There’s also nothing wrong with having a preference. People can’t adopt or take care of infinite animals, so we do need to have some way of deciding. Color, personality, expression, etc are all valid ways of choosing a pet.

As long as you’re not discriminating against or attacking cats that’s not your favorite color, I don’t see an issue.

Roller skating or roller blading can be an alternative to hiking, walking, and running that is loads of fun. This option can cost a bit more upfront for skates and protective gear but that can be minimized if you try to buy second hand.

I like this option since it can invoke more of a childlike fun and still get you out of the house. It’s also arguably a cool hobby. Skating and blading works well if you live in a place that’s more urban/suburban. You’re not competing with anyone (except the you of yesterday). It’s great to feel the wind and road fly by once you get good enough.

If anyone decides to try it, I recommend finding a flat, smooth spot and wearing a helmet and pads to start. Watch videos to improve your skills. Connect with other skaters online and in person if/when you feel comfortable doing so.