So, I recently heard someone say they’d “outgrown” their ADHD. Outgrown?! Like a pair of jeans or a childhood fear of the dark? Nope, ADHD is here to stay. You can, however, get better at handling it with the right strategies, therapy, and maybe a few meds.
This post is about living with ADHD, not ditching it. And, speaking of ADHD, here’s a family adventure that shows why grace, compassion, and empathy are crucial when ADHD is involved.
The scene: my daughter’s first date. In the middle of the night, she texts me: “Someone invited me out and I’m the only one.” Cue excitement—her first date! We had the whole fashion show with outfits, hair, and makeup. Her date went well, and we even met his mom, who we already knew. Sweet relief!
Now, onto the ADHD chaos. My husband, the impulsive enthusiast, bought me a new purse on a whim a few days prior. While I was napping, he dumped everything from my old purse into the new one. Change and ADHD are like mixing vinegar and baking soda—chaotic. The new purse had more compartments than a Swiss Army knife, and I was lost.
ADHDers, you know the drill. If stuff isn’t in its special place, chaos ensues. My daughter used to have meltdowns over misplaced school stuff, so I’d give her a foot rub in the car to calm her down. It worked like magic.
Fast forward to our post-date car ride: I can’t find my parking ticket or credit card. Panic mode: activated. I’m scrambling, while another car is stuck behind us. I do a mini U-turn and pull over, flipping through compartments like a tornado.
My daughter, now the voice of reason, calmly takes my purse and tells me to breathe. She’s channeling my old stress-management techniques, rubbing my hand and saying everything will be okay. And guess what? She found my credit card in a random spot and, eventually, the parking ticket in an unusual place.
Lesson learned: ADHD doesn’t go away, but routines and empathy do wonders. Even when we mess up, we’ve got to offer understanding and grace—often from the people we least expect.
So, next time someone says they’ve outgrown ADHD, just remind them: it’s not about outgrowing it, but managing it with a lot of love and a touch of humor.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, routine and coping strategies can make a significant difference. At Swift Lyfe Coaching and Consulting, we specialize in helping individuals manage their ADHD effectively. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey towards a more organized and fulfilling life. Visit our appointment page to get started.