EP. 251: What Happens When We Learn How to Lead with Alice Gendron
Oct 25, 2023
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Alice Gendron, creator of 'The Mini ADHD Coach' and author, discusses her journey with ADHD, turning her passion project into a career, cultural shifts around ADHD in France, and more. They explore the significance of accurate ADHD diagnosis, struggles with adulting, and the power of sharing voice through podcasting. They also emphasize finding one's path, making own luck, and not feeling alone while questioning ADHD or being diagnosed.
Self-understanding and personalization are crucial in managing ADHD effectively.
Discussing the pre and post-diagnosis experiences and providing support is important for individuals with ADHD.
Breaking stereotypes and initiating conversations about ADHD are necessary to increase awareness and support in different cultures.
Deep dives
The Importance of Self-Understanding in Living Successfully with ADHD
Self-understanding is key to living successfully with ADHD. Each person with ADHD is unique, and it is important to find your own strategies and approaches that work best for you. Trying different methods and being open to experimentation is essential. Emphasizing the outcome rather than adhering to strict rules or conventions allows for flexibility and personalization. Developing self-awareness, assessing needs, and constantly iterating on what works best for you are crucial in navigating life with ADHD.
The Journey of ADHD Diagnoses and Doubts
The journey of being diagnosed with ADHD is often filled with doubts and struggles. For many individuals, including the speaker, being diagnosed can bring a mix of relief and negative emotions. Wondering what is wrong, feeling like a failure, and struggling with simple tasks are common experiences. This journey highlights the importance of discussing the pre-diagnosis and post-diagnosis moments, as well as providing support and understanding for those going through similar experiences.
Challenging ADHD Stereotypes and Raising Awareness
ADHD stereotypes and misconceptions exist in various cultures, such as the belief that ADHD is an American phenomenon or something manufactured by big pharma. These stereotypes contribute to limited awareness and understanding of ADHD. In countries like France, where ADHD diagnoses might be less prevalent, there is a need for increased awareness and destigmatization. Breaking down stereotypes and initiating conversations about ADHD and mental health are essential steps in educating and supporting individuals with ADHD.
Finding Your Strengths in ADHD
ADHD individuals possess unique strengths and talents. The speaker discusses how her inability to become a traditional artist led her to develop a simple and relatable drawing style that resonated with many people. Curiosity is another trait that drives ADHD individuals, allowing for novel connections and insights that others might not perceive. Celebrating individual strengths and exploring creative outlets are important aspects of embracing ADHD and recognizing its positive contributions.
The Journey of Self-Discovery and Making a Difference
The speaker shares her personal journey of self-discovery through her Instagram account, where she doodles and discusses ADHD. Initially, she started the account as a means to understand herself better and find support. However, her posts began resonating with thousands of people who felt understood and empowered. The experience of making a difference and connecting with others led her to realize the importance of finding purpose in life and helping others through their own journeys.
When Alice Gendron entered the workforce, she struggled to manage the workload of a nine-to-five job and also stay on top of the endless demands of adulting. When she was diagnosed with ADHD at 29, it all finally made sense.
Alice started making doodles about her ADHD experience, a skill she had been honing since grade school. Before she knew it, her illustrations had grown into the popular online platform 'The Mini ADHD Coach', with over half a million Instagram followers and a brand new book of the same name.
Looking at them, it's easy to see why so many ADHDers are drawn to Alice's illustrations; her simplistic doodles get right to the heart of what having ADHD feels like in such a sweet and relatable way.
Join our conversation to hear how Alice was able to turn her passion project into a fulfilling career, what she's learned about leading since becoming an entrepreneur, the cultural shifts around ADHD in France, and so much more. ______________