Why “just try harder” is a myth (David Flink’s story)
Mar 19, 2024
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David Flink shares his journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia in 5th grade, and how he learned to 'try smarter' instead of 'try harder'. He founded Eye to Eye to improve experiences for students with learning differences and busts age-old ADHD myths with host Laura Key.
Transition from 'just try harder' to 'try smarter' is crucial for individuals with ADHD.
David Flink's Eye to Eye program promotes acceptance of neurodiversity and empowers students with learning differences.
Deep dives
David's Childhood Struggles with ADHD and School
At nine years old, David faced challenges in school due to undiagnosed ADHD. Despite trying hard, he felt inadequate as teachers pushed him to 'just try harder.' His coping mechanism led him to be labeled as the class clown. It wasn't until fifth grade that he received a diagnosis, realizing he wasn't unintelligent. This revelation marked a turning point, offering hope and a path forward.
Transitioning to College and Self-Understanding
In college, David continued to excel academically but battled anxieties and self-imposed pressure. With undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, he struggled to ask for accommodations due to the stigma around discussing his learning differences. This internal conflict persisted as he faced mounting challenges, impacting his mental health and relationships.
Founding Eye to Eye and Empowering Neurodiverse Youth
Upon realizing his neurodiversity, David founded Eye to Eye, a mentorship program for neurodiverse students. Through storytelling and peer support, ambassadors share their experiences to create awareness and understanding. This initiative reflects a shift from 'just try harder' to embracing individual learning styles, fostering a supportive community for neurodiverse individuals.
As a child, David Flink was told to “just try harder.” But David wasn’t lazy. He was trying as hard as he could.
After being diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia in the 5th grade, David went to a school that taught him to “try smarter” instead. There he learned to pick paths that work better for his brain.
Today, David is an author, advocate, and speaker. He’s also the founder and chief empowerment officer of Eye to Eye, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving experiences for students with learning differences. Host Laura Key and David discuss how Eye to Eye was born, and bust some age-old ADHD myths.
Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give
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