Start with Small Steps 212 - Living with ADHD: My Journey to Understanding
Living with ADHD: My Journey to Understanding
In this episode, I open up about my personal journey with ADHD, a condition that’s been both a challenge and a unique part of who I am. From my restless childhood to my career as an adult navigating deadlines, relationships, and responsibilities, I share the ups, downs, and surprising discoveries I’ve made along the way. ADHD isn’t just about being distracted or hyper—it’s about learning how to manage a brain that works a little differently. I’ll take you through what it’s like to live with ADHD, what I’ve learned about myself, and how I’ve found strategies that actually work.
- What ADHD Feels Like from the Inside:
I describe what it was like growing up with ADHD before I even knew what it was. From constant fidgeting to disappearing into my "happy place," I share how these traits shaped my childhood and how I learned to navigate them.
- Hyperfocus, Inattention, and Time Blindness:
ADHD isn’t just about being easily distracted. I dive into how hyperfocus and time blindness have impacted my life—sometimes helping me achieve big things and other times making me feel stuck.
- The Emotional Side of ADHD:
The frustration of being labeled “lazy” or “unfocused” when I was really trying my best weighed heavily on me. I talk about how those feelings affected my self-esteem and how I’ve worked to reframe my relationship with ADHD.
- Tools and Strategies That Changed My Life:
I share how tools like planners, apps, and external accountability helped me find structure in the chaos. These strategies didn’t just make my life easier—they helped me embrace my strengths.
Takeaways:
1. You’re Not Alone in This: ADHD looks different for everyone, but the struggles are real and shared. There’s no shame in seeking help or finding creative ways to cope.
2. Small Steps Lead to Big Changes: Whether it’s setting up a simple to-do list or finding a supportive community, small actions can create meaningful progress.
3. Focus on What Works for You: From embracing technology to leaning into what motivates me, I’ve learned that it’s about finding solutions that fit your life—not trying to mold yourself into someone else’s idea of “normal.”
Closing Thoughts:
I hope my story inspires you to rethink how you approach ADHD—whether it’s your own or someone else’s. It’s not about “fixing” yourself; it’s about finding what works and creating a life that fits you. If you’d like to share your story or ask me questions, email me at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com. Let’s navigate this journey together!
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/living-with-adhd-my-journey-to-understanding/
Jill’s Links
https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI
https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com