samuelmtimbo

Yes, as soon as Web Audio units are released. Then Audio Generation and Audio Processing can run and be integrated with other technologies seamlessly, like UI elements, Canvas and P2P.

Hey, thanks for the analysis and questions!

I did check on FMJ many years ago when researching about Visual Programming Languages. I recall the very inspiring notes on the FMJ website (http://www.fmjlang.co.uk/fmj/FMJ.html).

(1) The type system is inspired by TypeScript. It has generics that are resolved when unit pins are connected to concrete types. Right now there’s no way to define new types. Hopes are that type inference alone would be good enough for a start. Likewise, new interfaces cannot be created. Only the system defined interfaces can be exposed, such as channel `CH` and media stream `ST`. That is interesting because it influences the design of machines in terms of common interfaces and protocols for inputs and outputs.

(2) The visual representation is a graph specification stored in JSON. I think JSON works well with current version control systems in terms of diff readability, but I don’t see why custom unit components couldn’t be created to show the diff in graph, visually.

(3) The unit will stop the data flow and emit an “error” event. To catch this event particularly, there’s a `catch unit.

(4) Yes, there’s a few examples of recursive units, such as a `merge sort` in the open source system. The `editor` unit can’t create them from scratch right now though… but it can be done with a meta trick…

(5) The graph is loaded and saved as a JSON. The JSON has to be read by an interpreter that will instantiate all the primitives and make all the connections. Unit specification is language agnostic, but currently the project is all written in JavaScript (works with Web and NodeJS).

I'd love to be at Fat Tony's!

I concur it is hard to keep continuity while battling waves of inconsistent motivation. While we hardly have the same experience with the issue, I would like to share a few additional models with you. They are not any close to a solution, but might be helpful thinking about:

I found Brain Hacking a helpful tool.

What incentives can you setup to use your own "instincts" in your favor?

"Long tail" projects are a very good call. If the required endeavor for success is big and challenging, you are likely to get drawn back to it out proud, "just to prove yourself". It might help assuming it is your responsibility to get it done. The waves will keep coming regardless, but I found that even in the dark moments, you can still advance, if just a little, and sometimes you will be surprised by finding out a time of complete aversion was exactly what you needed to step back up. I can see you are self-conscious of those moments so maybe an "OK, I am depressed. What is the least I can do while in this state of mind?" is a good exercise.

I got involved into a project that might take many years to finish and I became obsessed with it in a way the great majority of my thoughts, regardless of how messy, fall into its reign. Many might tell you to shoot for Balance instead. That sounds nice, but as an ADHD myself, I am not afraid of saying singleminded dedication to a cause is not as bad as people might tell you.

One way I found to cope with it is to apply Gamification in my routine. Every finished mission is one step less towards the vision. Another strategy I use is to go the opposite way of the norm by removing all source of information instead of feeding on them. I really mean no books, no articles, no podcasts, no HN, no YouTube, Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, etc; you name it, anything that would likely bring you anxiety. In this state of mind your mission will be canalizing your thoughts into something you find useful. Repeat.

To finish, for what it comes to career as an Engineer/Artist, I would say that following a passion, even if inconsistently, will likely be a better lesson, both technically and creatively, than any job you could find in the system. I once got two very good job offers by basically saying "I am too adventurous. I won't ever fit your archaic corporative structure. Are you sure you want me in?". That said, nothing really beats the thrill of being a maker. Have you ever lurked into Systems Design?

I offer you my genuine personal point of view.

ADHD people are incredibly creative! They are those whose brain naturally refuses to conform to "what is not fun", in the words of the author. This feeling is right behind Artistry itself! Your mind is trying to say something very important.

I advise you to invest in finding what your flow is. For a moment think the way your brain works is a gift of the universe and things like Distraction, Hyperactivity and Never Ending Stream of Thoughts might in turn be confused with Graph Exploitation, Mind Stamina and Infinite Power of Association.

How can you take the most utility out of your "condition"? By using it as a tool for Creative Expression. We are all blessed to have so many options to do that. Fall in love with a project - something you care about so much you will likely be always motivated by it.

The System is totally broken. Many know that. Companies should see ADHD collaborators as a unique and rare kind of Problem Solvers and work hard to make sure their gift is well exploited. The full equation has got many parameters, but a good starting question is "how can we design an environment where my ADHD (or any other condition) can give their absolute best?".

Personally, I like to use my abilities thinking about The Future of Technology and expressing those thoughts through Software Development. If you vibe with that, message me. I would very much want to be your friend.