It’s been three years since my ADHD diagnosis (inattentive type) at age 44, which came at the end of ADHD Awareness Month (October), so feels like the perfect time to reflect. This journey has been one of learning, unlearning, and embracing both the chaos and clarity that come with understanding my neurodivergent brain.
Before my diagnosis, I carried a weight of unanswered questions. Why couldn’t I keep up with tasks that others seemed to manage effortlessly? Why did I feel so out of sync with the world? Now, I look back at my pre-diagnosis self with what I call kindsight—the ability to view my past with compassion, appreciating that I didn’t know what I didn’t know.
What I’ve learned over the past three years isn’t just about ADHD but also about the unique ways it shows up in me. One of the most important lessons has been recognising that no two neurodivergent people are the same. Our brains may share some common traits, but the way we experience and navigate the world is deeply personal. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach, especially in workplaces, simply doesn’t work. Inclusion, compassion, and tailored support can mean the difference between surviving and thriving.
Here are some reflections on my ADHD journey so far:
1. Diagnosis Brings Clarity, Not a Magic Fix
Getting my diagnosis answered decades of questions, but it didn’t solve everything overnight. What it did bring was clarity—and with that, the ability to start building strategies and structures that support me.
2. Kindsight Changes Everything
Before my diagnosis, I was harsh on myself, believing I was failing in ways I didn’t understand. Now, I try to meet myself with kindsight—recognising that I was always doing my best, even when it didn’t feel like enough.
3. Strengths Aren’t Superpowers—Challenges Are Kryptonite
I don’t see my ADHD strengths as superpowers. Yes, I’m creative, and I connect ideas quickly. But I also face challenges—like time blindness and overwhelm—that feel more like kryptonite. Balancing these realities has been crucial to managing my ADHD.
4. Community is a Lifeline
I wouldn’t be where I am without the people who’ve supported me.
Emma Cossey and her Freelance Lifestylers community have been an invaluable source of practical advice and camaraderie.
My coach, Clare—The Neurodiversity Coach, has helped me understand and embrace my ADHD.
More recently, my VA, Jo, has been a game-changer. Her support helps keep me organised and on track in a way I didn’t realise I needed, much like a great manager might do in a traditional workplace.
5. Workplaces Need to Understand the Individual
The world isn’t designed for neurodivergent people, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. In the workplace, understanding, inclusion, and tailored support can unlock potential—not just for the individual but for teams and organisations. Awareness training is a great starting point, as part of a wider strategy to support wellbeing in an inclusive way.
6. Masking and Authenticity Are a Balancing Act
Like many neurodivergent people, I’ve spent years masking—hiding my true self to fit into a neurotypical world. Now, I’m learning to let my authentic self show, while still using my “business Julie” persona when it’s helpful.
7. Progress, Not Perfection
Living with ADHD is a daily balancing act. Some days I feel unstoppable; other days, it’s a struggle just to get through. What keeps me going is knowing I’m not alone on this journey.
8. Celebrate the Small Wins
Building a life that works for me—through routines, community, and self-awareness—is something I’m proud of. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress.
9. We Need to Stop Saying “Everyone’s a Bit ADHD“
No, not everyone is “a little bit ADHD”. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts every part of life, and dismissing it with statements like this minimises the very real challenges we face.
10. There’s Always More to Learn
Three years in, I’m still figuring things out—and that’s okay. Each step brings new insights and strategies, and I’m grateful for the progress I’ve made.
Supporting Neurodivergent Brains
As I reflect on these years, one thing is clear: understanding ADHD is a two-way street. It’s about individuals learning what works for them and workplaces understanding how to support their people. Coaching has a powerful part to play in this, as learning, trying and embedding strategies takes time, curiosity and support. Inclusion isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for unlocking potential and building thriving teams.
If you’re an employer looking to better understand your team, or an individual wanting to navigate your neurodivergence with more confidence, I’d love to help. Together, we can create environments where neurodivergent minds aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving.
