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Welcome to this week's 'Running Record,' a space where I share the myriad thoughts that travel through my mind as I run. Today, I want to share something deeply personal—my own journey as a neurodivergent individual. Stories like mine are crucial because they shed light on the real-life experiences of people who navigate the world with unique neurological wiring. By sharing these stories, we foster understanding, compassion, and a sense of community among parents, educators, and neurodivergent individuals themselves.
My Journey
Growing up, I always felt a bit different. While other kids seemed to move effortlessly through the social and academic expectations of childhood, I often found myself struggling to keep up. It wasn't until I was an adult that I was diagnosed with ADHD, a revelation that brought both relief and a host of new challenges. Finally, there was an explanation for why I felt so out of sync with the world around me.
School was particularly tough. My brain craved stimulation and novelty, but the rigid structure of the classroom left me restless and bored. Homework was a nightmare—I could spend hours staring at a single problem, my mind drifting off in a hundred different directions. Despite my best efforts, I often found myself falling behind, leading to a cycle of frustration and self-doubt. It was difficult not to compare myself to my peers, who seemed to breeze through tasks that felt insurmountable to me.
As an adult, work was even tougher. The professional world demanded a level of organization and time management that I struggled to maintain. Juggling multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and adhering to structured routines often felt impossible. I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of responsibilities, and the constant pressure to perform exacerbated my anxiety. Job interviews were particularly challenging; my tendency to lose focus and my unconventional thought processes often made it hard to articulate my strengths. Navigating office politics and maintaining consistent productivity became daily battles, and I often worried that my neurodivergence would prevent me from achieving my career goals. However, these challenges also pushed me to develop unique coping mechanisms and seek out people and environments that valued diversity and creativity.
Challenges and Triumphs
One of the most significant challenges I faced was managing my time and staying organized. Executive function skills, which are critical for planning, prioritizing, and executing tasks, were not my strong suit. I remember vividly the countless occasions where I missed deadlines or forgot about important assignments. Each failure chipped away at my confidence, reinforcing the idea that I wasn't capable of succeeding in a traditional academic environment.
But my story doesn't end there. With the support of understanding teachers and the right strategies, I began to find ways to work with my brain rather than against it. One of the turning points was discovering the power of executive function coaching. Learning techniques to manage my time, break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and create structured routines transformed my approach to learning. Tools like visual schedules, reminder apps, and mind mapping became my allies in navigating daily life.
Another pivotal moment was embracing my neurodivergence as a strength rather than a weakness. I realized that my unique perspective and problem-solving abilities were valuable assets. My ability to think outside the box, hyper-focus on areas of interest, and approach challenges creatively began to shine through. With this shift in mindset, I started to see my ADHD not as a deficit but as a different way of processing the world. This shift required consistent persistence and a growth mindset, both of which became cornerstones of my personal and professional development.
One of my proudest achievements includes completing several years of training to become a Professionally Certified Educational Therapist and Executive Function Skills Coach. This journey was not without its hurdles, but it was immensely rewarding. Through my training, I not only honed my skills but also gained a deeper understanding of the diverse ways in which people learn and process information. This knowledge became the foundation of my work at Mindworks Memphis, where I now help parents and their children learn how to leverage their innate strengths and abilities.
Message of Hope
To anyone reading this who feels overwhelmed or discouraged by their neurodivergence, know that there is hope. Your brain may work differently, but that difference is what makes you unique and capable of incredible things. The road may be challenging, and you may face setbacks, but every step forward is a testament to your resilience and strength.
Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. Seek out resources and strategies that align with your unique needs. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem, and remember that progress is a journey, not a destination. Embracing a growth mindset and practicing consistent persistence can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
Your story, like mine, is a valuable piece of the neurodiversity tapestry. By sharing our experiences, we create a world where neurodivergent individuals are understood, accepted, and celebrated for the unique gifts they bring. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for joining me on this personal journey. Stay tuned for more stories, insights, and resources in our next blog. Until then, keep embracing your uniqueness and moving forward with hope and determination.