She Strengthens

Taking Control of My Life: Living with ADHD

As someone who’s lived with ADHD, anxiety, and depression for years, I’ve learned that managing my conditions requires a delicate balance of strategy, self-awareness, and sheer determination. After six years of treatment, I’ve made significant progress in overcoming my executive functioning issues, and I’m now re-diagnosed with hyperactive ADHD.

The Struggle is Real

Living with ADHD can be overwhelming. Imagine having multiple trains of thought racing through your mind simultaneously, making it difficult to focus on one task. Add to that the constant feeling of restlessness, and you’ll understand why staying organized and on top of things can be a daily battle.

My Top 7 Strategies for Staying on Track

1. Medication Management: Consistency is key when it comes to taking medication. Use online booking platforms like ZocDoc to schedule appointments, and set reminders on your phone to ensure you never miss a dose.

2. Mastering Your Calendar: Your phone calendar is your best friend. Use it to schedule everything from appointments to cleaning your room, and set reminders to stay on track.

3. Taming Your Finances: Find a spending app that works for you, and set up banking alerts to avoid overdrafts. Remember, money out needs to be balanced by money in.

4. Digitizing Important Documents: Take pictures of important papers to avoid losing them. This simple habit can save you from missed deadlines and financial disasters.

5. Streamlining Bill Payments: Set up automatic payments for essential bills, and opt for paperless statements to reduce clutter and save time.

6. Emotional Regulation: Recognize your emotional triggers and take breaks when needed. Leaving a stressful situation can help prevent inflammatory comments and emotional outbursts.

7. Cleaning Your Space: Establish a cleaning routine to avoid clutter and rodent infestations. A tidy space can reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

The Importance of Self-Awareness

Managing ADHD as an adult requires more than just strategies – it demands self-awareness, patience, and understanding. By acknowledging our weaknesses and developing coping mechanisms, we can create a level playing field and thrive in our personal and professional lives.

Creating a Supportive Community

There’s a lack of support for women with ADHD in the business world, which is why it’s essential to discuss our experiences and create a space for open conversation. By sharing our stories and strategies, we can empower each other to take control of our lives and succeed despite the challenges we face.