Getting What You Need
As ADHD awareness month continues, you may be discovering more about your ADHD. This is an overall good thing, but it can come with some growing pains. Learning more about yourself and your ADHD makes some inconvenient things come to light. You may learn just how difficult it is to thrive with ADHD.
The Problem
Those of us with ADHD have a disadvantage when it comes to getting what we need. The world is set up to cater to neurotypical brains. What that means for us ADHDers is that we need to take charge and advocate for ourselves. This is not always easy, but it is necessary.
Identifying Your Needs
Before you can ask for what you need, you need to know what you need. This can be tricky. There are the obvious needs (food, water, shelter, clothing, etc.), but what about the needs you have to live your best life with ADHD? Those are not easy to identify. It may take some experimentation to figure out what you need. Working with a coach can be another way to help identify what you need.
Advocating for Yourself
The first step in advocating for yourself is discovering your needs (discussed above). The next step is to gain some self-confidence, something that has been sadly eroded for many of ADHDers. When you have the self-confidence you need, it becomes easier to stand up for yourself. This may take the form of going to your boss or your school or wherever and stating what you need to be successful and putting the pressure on to get your needs met. It is unfortunate, but it is often up to you. Sometimes, you need to step up and create your own opportunities. Be bold. Be brave. Be YOU.