Definition
Body doubling is doing a task while another person is present, in the room or on a video call, whose presence helps you start and stay with it. The double does not have to help; they just have to be there.
Why It Matters
Body doubling is a practical, widely used strategy for autistic and ADHD people who struggle to initiate or sustain tasks. It turns an overwhelming solo task into a shared, lower-pressure activity.
Common Misconception
Needing a body double is not a lack of independence or willpower. It is a legitimate accommodation for executive function and inertia, much like a standing desk or a checklist is for other needs.