I've had such a great response when I discuss neurodivergent brain topics, specifically ADHD, that I wanted to share a little bit more about my journey and what's been working for me lately.
If you're neurotypical (you have typical thought and behavior patterns), this might still be beneficial reading if you have a few minutes. You likely know someone whose brain works a little bit differently than yours.
Alright, so my story...
One day my therapist said:
"Have you ever considered that you have ADHD?"
"Yes, I have thought about that," I said without thinking. Within a week, I had an appointment with my provider and started medication shortly after.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is not the typical process for getting diagnosed with ADHD. I'm so thankful I have a long-time provider who knows me, knows that I know my body, and trusts me. So many people have to advocate for themselves for years and undergo extensive testing, and many still struggle to find answers and support. I'm telling my story.
The medication helped me see the world more clearly. And I didn't realize how much it would benefit my freelance business. I'm better able to task-switch and organize my thoughts and work.
But it's far from perfect, and now that it's been over a year, I'm working hard to figure out what lifestyle changes and daily habits and routines help me best.
Here's what's been working for me:
I still go to therapy. And my therapist has ADHD, too! I recommend finding someone who specializes in whatever you're going through. This helps with validation and getting advice.
I exercise. Whether you believe me or not, I'm typing this while walking on my under-the-desk treadmill. I joined a gym in April 2023 and probably average going 4-5 days a week. Some days, my motivation is low, but it helps me to think of what my future self would want me to do (usually that's "go to the gym"). I also stretch, do yoga, and take my dog for walks when the weather is nice.
I prioritize sleep, which hasn't ever been an issue for me. While 8 sleeping hours are ideal, I need around 7 to function.
I talk about it. A LinkedIn friend of mine named Matt Olszewski recently gave me some ADHD advice and it helped! Support from others who "get it" can be a game-changer!
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Things I still need to work on:
Taking breaks before I need them. I know I'm not the only one!
Working in smaller chunks. When I feel like I'm "on a roll," I keep working even though it's been two hours or more before I've looked up from my computer. That hyperfocus is REAL. π€ͺ
Getting outside. I know how much the sunshine and fresh air help me. The hard part is just getting my butt out the door. Dog walks help with this, exercise and the outdoors in one swoop!
Mindfulness and deep breathing. I tell my husband that sometimes I forget to breathe. What I really mean is that I don't prioritize deep breathing. Exercising, especially at the gym, helps me with this. Being present in the moment can also be a struggle, but I want to do better, especially as a mom.
Not beating myself up for "bad days." I hate feeling unproductive. If I don't complete a project, or meet my expected level of productivity, I am far too hard on myself.