Focus and Chill - productivity tactics for AuDHDers and other neurodivergent folks

Episode 77: Dr. Jeremy Lim

Feb 16, 2025

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Welcome to episode #77! We’re thrilled to be joined by Dr. Jeremy Lim today.

Dr. Jeremy Lim is a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician and experienced medical doctor. He runs Whole Being Medical, an online practice that takes a multifaceted approach to treating chronic pain and neurodivergence. With a deep understanding of ADHD, he is dedicated to harm reduction and empowering his patients with holistic strategies for well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Lim shares his personal ADHD journey, insights into lifestyle medicine, and practical strategies for optimizing productivity, sleep, and mental health.

Welcome to the show, Dr. Lim!

Questions

JN: When did you first realize you weren’t neurotypical?

Labeled as disruptive from a young age in school
Parents didn’t have knowledge of ADHD, but father helped with learning
Diagnosed with ADHD at 19 during university struggles

JN: How did your diagnosis impact your perspective?

Provided clarity and understanding of personal struggles
Trialed stimulant medication for six months, had mixed experiences
Inspired him to become a doctor to help others with ADHD

JN: What was your experience with social interactions growing up?

Faced social exclusion due to ADHD traits and rejection sensitivity
Neurodivergence made relationship-building more difficult
Wants to help others feel seen and understood

JN: What strengths have you discovered through ADHD?

ADHD traits, like thinking outside the box, can be strengths in the right environment
Compares ADHD to a sports car—powerful, but needs the right tools to function well
Believes neurodivergence has contributed to human evolution and innovation

JN: Can you tell us about your medical practice and approach?

Runs Whole Being Medical, an online lifestyle medicine practice
Uses a six-pillar approach: nutrition, sleep, exercise, relationships, stress management, and mindset
Focuses on holistic well-being rather than just medication

JN: How do you optimize productivity as someone with ADHD?

Uses the "Eat That Frog" method—tackles the hardest task first
Creates a detailed outline of tasks to break down big projects
Prioritizes movement, hydration, and preparation in the morning

JN: What productivity advice doesn’t work for you?

Rejects hustle culture and constant comparison on social media
Believes in consistency over chasing hyperfocus highs
Encourages realistic expectations and self-compassion

JN: What does your morning routine look like?

Keeps it simple to avoid resistance
Four key elements: hygiene, hydration, movement, and protein
Prepares warm clothes the night before to make waking up easier

JN: How do you wind down at night and improve sleep?

Follows the 3-2-1 rule: no big meals three hours before bed, no fluids two hours before bed, no screens one hour before
Avoids caffeine, alcohol, and cannabis close to bedtime
Uses magnesium supplements and mindfulness to aid relaxation

JN: Where can people connect with you?

Website: https://www.wholebeingmedical.com.au/

JN: Final words for the audience?

“Don’t get lost in the sauce. Just do the next right thing.”
Focus on small, meaningful steps rather than feeling overwhelmed