One teacher in first grade, noticed I rushed through my tests. She had me take a test alone and I scored 100%. In class with others, I'd rush to be the first and didn't hit "my potential." Sound familiar? This was the first sign. she was onto to something but nothing more care about. I had minor behavioral problems which I fixed and (needed validation for) because not being perfect was too scary. High school had too many temptations which robbed my focus. Though I did well, thanks to a photographic memory, college exposed my lack of skills, focus and inability to inhibit myself. Drugs, drinking, boys became my focus except for a couple of semesters in which trading fun for overwhelm, and frustration to focus, refocus and refocus again, plus feeling misunderstood was not an even trade.

Eventually and undiagnosed I turned my life around for my values were who I was and not being responsible plagued me everyday. I went through a few successful careers where I'd struggle with conformity. Eventually I'd get depleted holding back who I really was. Additionally, I’d get bored and want more, learn more, earn more, become more, which I did. I' would dream of a different life almost weekly, yet where, or how was confusing and overwhleming.

When I finally followed the value of what was rewarding to me, I went back to school and became a Life and Leadership Coach. Clients would come into coaching yet they were very stuck. Nothing worked for them, therapy of all sorts didn't hit the mark. I deeply searched to expand my ability to help them. Luckily, I found training for ADHD Coaching.

When I entered this particular school and learned about ADHD, all worlds merged, the universe sang and finally I understood my own challenges, past and present. I did not feel shame for my diagnosis but I did for some past experiences which still make me cringe. I was relieved to finally know and was able to accept it with open arms. I also did not feel shame regarding having ADHD because it led me to where I am. I know, cliché, however, that click was a huge relief.

Everyday I have my routine, a word which I used to hate because I was incapable of it. I have my anchors, my work, my partner, my family, friends, interests and curiosity. Embracing my strengths, interests and passions with pride took time but it has been invaluable.