314 Two Things Can Be True (and Also… I’m Apparently Racist Against White Men?)
May 6, 2025
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Dive into the world of emotional flexibility and the power of the phrase 'two things can be true.' Explore how this mindset can transform your relationships and emotional intelligence. Discover a handy app designed especially for those with ADHD. Hear a spicy critique of a controversial New York Times article on ADHD and a heartfelt message for those navigating late diagnoses. Plus, get a candid take on accusations of racism and sexism, sparking thoughtful discussion on differing perspectives—it's a rollercoaster of honesty and humor!
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Quick takeaways
Embracing the concept that 'two things can be true' fosters emotional flexibility and deeper personal connections, especially for those with ADHD.
Adults with late ADHD diagnoses often experience grief over missed opportunities, emphasizing the need for acceptance and emotional expression through journaling and movement.
The 'How We Feel' app helps ADHD individuals articulate their emotions, enhancing emotional intelligence and resilience through better understanding of their emotional patterns.
Deep dives
Understanding ADHD and Emotional Flexibility
ADHD often leads to black and white thinking, limiting emotional flexibility and complicating relationships. The concept of 'two things can be true,' introduced by Dr. Becky Kennedy, encourages individuals with ADHD to embrace the gray areas in life. This perspective allows for personal validation without needing to convince others of one's own viewpoint, fostering connection and understanding. Recognizing that multiple perspectives can coexist helps to combat the all-or-nothing mindset, opening pathways for healthier interactions.
Grieving Late Diagnosis and Empowering Growth
For adults diagnosed with ADHD later in life, the journey often involves grappling with grief over missed opportunities and past struggles, as illustrated by a listener's experience. Acknowledging this grief is essential for processing emotions and accepting one's new reality post-diagnosis. Embracing the idea that two things can be true—feeling regret while also being grateful for newfound understanding—can facilitate healing. Journaling and physical movement are recommended as methods for expressing these emotions and supporting the grieving process.
Building Emotional Intelligence with Technology
The 'How We Feel' app serves as a valuable tool in enhancing emotional intelligence for those with ADHD, who often struggle to articulate their feelings. Developed to assist users in identifying and managing their emotions through simple logging and science-based suggestions, the app aims to improve self-soothing and emotional regulation. By providing insights into emotional patterns, it empowers users to move beyond basic emotions and build a more nuanced emotional vocabulary. This app is particularly beneficial in helping ADHD individuals navigate complex feelings, increasing their overall emotional resilience.
Critique of ADHD Misunderstandings in Media
The recent New York Times article questioning the validity of ADHD diagnosis sparked discussions on the evolving understanding of the condition. While it raised valid points about symptom fluctuation and environmental factors, it has also faced criticism for reinforcing stigmas against medication and treatment. Professionals emphasize the importance of continuing research without undermining the legitimacy of ADHD as a condition. This dialogue highlights the necessity for more careful consideration of how ADHD is represented in media, advocating for a balanced view that recognizes both challenges and progress.
Navigating Feedback and Public Perception
Public figures discussing ADHD often encounter varied responses, as illustrated by a negative podcast review targeting perceived biases. Addressing claims of being racist or sexist in reactions to ADHD discussions reflects a misunderstanding of the complexities involved in these conversations. A healthy discourse allows for differing perspectives while fostering understanding rather than conflict. Utilizing the principle of 'two things can be true' ingrains a respectful dialogue that recognizes the validity of all viewpoints without dismissing the core messages being communicated.
Today we're talking emotional flexibility, why black-and-white thinking is holding you back, and how one tiny phrase (borrowed from parenting wisdom!) can radically change how you relate to yourself and others: “Two things can be true.”
You’ll also get:
A cheat-code app for building emotional intelligence (perfect for ADHD brains)
My spicy take on that viral New York Times ADHD article
A heartfelt message for anyone struggling with a late diagnosis
And yes… the spicy podcast review that called me racist and sexist against white men
It’s messy, it’s honest, it’s full of laughs and truth bombs. Basically, it’s classic ADHD.
Hit play now—because this episode might just change how you see yourself (and the world)
