Living with ADHD: My Story | Clutterbug Podcast # 212
Feb 26, 2024
auto_awesome
Explore the personal journey of living with ADHD, from childhood challenges and homelessness to finding purpose through acts of kindness. Learn about the struggles of balancing work and parenting, and the transformative power of organization in overcoming ADHD obstacles.
ADHD can be misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leading to challenges in school and feelings of inadequacy.
Embracing ADHD as a superpower can transform struggles into strengths, leading to purpose and fulfillment in life.
Deep dives
Discovering My ADHD Story
Growing up in the 80s in a small town, the speaker shares her journey with ADHD, starting from childhood. Initially misdiagnosed as allergic to sugar due to hyperactivity, the speaker experienced challenges in school due to hyperactivity and impulsivity. Teachers and adults labeled her as annoying, leading to feelings of isolation and disruptive behavior in grade school.
Struggling with Memorization and Breaking Rules
The speaker faced difficulties with memorization and academic tasks, often feeling lazy and dumb compared to peers. An incident of cheating in grade two reinforced feelings of inadequacy and laziness. Rejected by friends and teachers due to impulsive and disruptive behaviors, the speaker started engaging in risky behaviors and rule-breaking activities from a young age.
Transitioning into Adulthood and Experiencing Consequences
As a teenager, the speaker's defiance against societal norms and distaste for a mundane life led to homelessness and criminal activities. Getting caught and experiencing real consequences in prison marked a turning point, prompting a commitment to never break the law again and seek a better way of living outside the system. Transitioning back into society, the speaker struggled with dead-end jobs but found purpose in helping others.
Embracing ADHD as a Superpower and Finding Purpose
At age 40, the speaker received a diagnosis of ADHD, which transformed her perspective on her struggles. Medication helped calm her racing thoughts and impulsivity, allowing her to realize her unique strengths. Embracing ADHD as a superpower, the speaker found passion in organizing and helping others declutter. By understanding her ADHD traits as strengths, the speaker discovered purpose and transformed her challenges into opportunities, leading to a fulfilling career.
In today's podcast, I am going to share my personal journey with ADHD. Join me for some real talk about the ups and downs of living with this superpower.
Whether you have ADHD yourself, know someone who does or just want to learn more, this podcast will be truly insightful and informative.