For years, many of us with ADHD have carried a silent burden, feeling like we’re broken, lazy, or somehow not enough. But what if that weight didn’t belong to us in the first place?
For as long as I can remember, time has had a way of slipping through my fingers. Growing up, I was often the last one out the door, scrambling to button my shirt while my dad sat in the driveway revving the engine, signaling that I was late, and the whole family was waiting on me…again. That pattern followed me into adulthood, and running late and letting people down still does not feel good. Now, it’s my wife Andrea who gives the friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) honk, while even my kids chime in: “Dad, it’s time to go!” The truth is, I never intend to be late, but time blindness, a hallmark of ADHD, has always been one of my biggest challenges. And while the symptom hasn’t changed; my coping strategy has! Today, Andrea and I build out a simple timeline the night before an event, complete with mini check-ins and even a few small rewards to keep me on track. It doesn’t make me perfect, but it helps me to be more prepared, and keep everyone happy. This is a small example of a simple shift that has helped me to “UN-shame” my life.
As a matter of fact, this same idea is exactly what we talked about in this episode of the More Than ADHD™️ podcast. I sat down with my friend, mentor, and fellow Certified ADHD Coach Stuart “Tru Stu” Cohen to talk about something powerful: unshaming ADHD. This conversation isn’t about tips and tricks or quick fixes, it’s about letting go of the stigma, rewriting the narrative, and finally feeling seen.
Why Demolishing ADHD Shame Matters
Too many people receive an ADHD diagnosis and immediately feel like it’s something they need to fix or hide. But the truth is, understanding your ADHD can be a massive moment of clarity and relief. It’s not about labeling yourself, it’s about finally making sense of how your brain works and why you’ve struggled in certain areas for so long.
Coach Stuart and I explored how this process of “unshaming” starts with self-acceptance and grows through community. We talked about:
- Why positive reflections and affirmations are so critical
- How discovering your true self leads to personal growth
- The role of supportive communities in breaking cycles of isolation
The importance of challenging outdated societal expectations around productivity and behavior
Your ADHD Is Your Own, and That’s a Good Thing
One of my favorite moments from this episode was realizing just how unique every ADHD experience really is. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Everyone has their own “brand” of ADHD, and embracing that individuality is where real growth begins.
Whether you’ve been diagnosed for years or are just starting to explore what ADHD means for you, this episode offers a heartfelt reminder: you are not alone, and you are not broken.
Ready to rid ADHD shame and discover a new way forward with ADHD?
Watch the full episode and join us for a conversation that’s honest, affirming, and long overdue.
