You try hard. You really do.
However, you still find your thoughts drifting out the window or you forget that you have to be at an appointment on time. It seems as if you are constantly in this thick cloud that keeps you from reaching your full potential.
In fact, you know that you have ADHD or executive functioning problems. But knowing that is not enough to help you keep a job or have a relationship.
You need help with functioning well, with reaching our potential.
Can you do it? Of course! Consider these three steps.
1. Accept That You Need Help for Reaching Your Full Potential
Are you the kind of person that likes to go it alone? You want to be self-reliant and not need anyone’s help. After all, you see plenty of other people getting by in life, right?
So, getting help feels a little bit like being a failure, especially as an adult.
However, this is far from the case. There is nothing “wrong” with you. It’s just that your brain is wired differently than that of other people. And that’s okay.
But it does mean you need support for being able to navigate this world. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Instead, acknowledging the reality of the situation is really a signal of strength.
Remember, everyone needs help from time-to-time, including you.
2. Get Treatment for ADHD and Executive Functioning Problems
If you haven’t done so already, go to a therapist or counselor who understands ADHD and executive functioning problems. Why? Because a therapist can serve several purposes.
One is to have a safe place to vent and express what you are feeling regarding not reaching your full potential. The other is that they can teach you skills to stay organized and on task so you can navigate the non-ADHD world.
Also, if your therapist has the ability to prescribe medication, that too can help with your symptoms. Don’t be afraid to take an all-hands-on-deck approach to getting treatment.
If you have sought treatment in the past and it didn’t work, try changing things up. Maybe it’s time to try a new therapist who has the possibility of being more helpful.
3. Implement What You Learn and Apply It to Your Life
When trying to reach your potential as an adult, you need to be open to learning some new skills. Plus, you have to be willing to apply what you learn to your life so that you can make positive change. This requires having an open mind to doing things differently than you are used to.
Of course, changes like that can be frustrating, even scary, to consider. However, the results can mean you will be able to succeed in reaching your potential even with ADHD or executive functioning issues.
Maybe you can learn a few tricks for being on time for work. Or you may develop some social skills that make easier to connect with others. Ultimately, you will be establishing the foundation for having a more successful and satisfying future.
Forgive Yourself
It’s important to note that throughout this process you might get angry at yourself or sad for having ADHD or executive functioning issues.
Naturally, it can be aggravating when it’s difficult to do certain things that seem to come so easily to others. However, remember that it’s not your “fault” you have these problems and forgive yourself.
As an adult, you have the ability for reaching your potential and live the life you want. Just give yourself a break and stay open to the process.
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Having ADHD or executive functioning problems as an adult doesn’t mean that you can’t succeed. Acknowledge that you need help, seek treatment, and implement new skills that can help you reach your potential. Remember, everyone has a challenge in life, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fulfill your goals.
If you would like to know more about my approach to ADHD Counseling for adults, please click on the link.