Embracing Our ADHD Strengths: Moving Beyond Deficits with Amanda Riley
For many adult women who discovered they had ADHD after childhood, there’s often a familiar story: a sense that something was different, but not quite knowing what. ADHD can feel like a constant balancing act, with time slipping away and emotions fluctuating wildly, especially when faced with societal expectations. That’s why it’s so empowering to hear from Amanda Riley, who joined us on the podcast to discuss revealing our ADHD strengths rather than focusing on the deficits.
Amanda shared her journey, which began after her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD. Like many parents, she found herself navigating a maze of neurodivergence and asking new questions about herself. Her story is one that resonates with many—moving from a place of self-doubt to embracing ADHD as a part of her identity.
Understanding ADHD Coaching and Holistic Approaches
Amanda is currently pursuing a diploma to become an ADHD coach, working on a course that goes beyond traditional coaching methods by taking a holistic approach.
“It’s in-depth and trauma-informed,” she explains. “It brings in psychoeducation and positive psychology, and you coach the entire person.”
This kind of coaching is about more than just managing symptoms. It’s about understanding the unique ways ADHD shows up in each individual and using that understanding to harness strengths.
Coaching with a holistic lens means looking at all aspects of life—emotional, mental, and even physical. It allows for integrating different strategies, such as mindfulness, medication, and lifestyle changes, to support ADHD in real-world situations. Amanda’s approach embraces not only managing ADHD but also celebrating the strengths that come with it.
Creating Neuroinclusive Environments in the Workplace
Amanda also focuses on neurodiversity in the workplace, where she sees an opportunity to make impactful changes.
“The workplaces of today are not ready for the neurodivergent generation that's coming,” she points out. “If they don’t adapt, they’ll miss out on the amazing, unique brains and talents.”
There’s a growing need for workplaces to move away from the one-size-fits-all approach to productivity and create environments that support different neurotypes.
Neuroinclusive workspaces do more than accommodate; they empower employees to be themselves without the need for constant masking. This includes practical changes, like allowing flexible working hours for those with time blindness, as well as fostering a culture that values diverse perspectives. The goal is to create spaces where everyone feels like they belong, regardless of how their brains work.
Tackling Time Blindness and ADHD
One of the many challenges ADHD-ers face is time blindness, which Amanda discusses openly. The concept of time blindness isn’t just about losing track of time; it’s about struggling to estimate how long tasks will take and constantly underestimating deadlines. This can lead to feelings of overwhelm and frustration when time runs out before tasks are completed.
Strategies to manage time blindness often involve external tools, such as visual timers, reminders, or even having a physical clock nearby. Amanda highlights the importance of “externalizing” things, saying,
“Russell Barkley explains that if your ADHD is stopping you from doing something like time management, externalize it. Don’t think you can make yourself better at it. Just acknowledge that you might not be great at that, and use reminders or other tools.”
Navigating ADHD, Hormones, and Rejection Sensitivity
Women with ADHD often have unique experiences tied to hormonal fluctuations, including perimenopause and menopause. Amanda noted that during these times, ADHD symptoms can worsen, leading to increased emotional overwhelm, mood swings, and even feelings of rejection sensitivity.
“ADHD is three or four times more likely to end up with depression or anxiety during this phase,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of being proactive about understanding and managing these changes.
Rejection sensitivity, a common challenge among those with ADHD, can make daily interactions and feedback feel particularly intense. For Amanda, focusing on strengths has been a game-changer.
“Before, I didn’t feel like I was good at much,” she says. “But spending the time to understand my brain and what my strengths are… I’m really at peace with my ADHD.”
Tune into the latest episode of ADHD: Women Exploring the Neuroverse
This episode is all about shifting the narrative around ADHD—from one of deficits to one of strengths. By embracing a holistic approach to ADHD coaching, fostering neuro-inclusive workplaces, and finding practical strategies to manage time blindness, we can begin to see ADHD not as a barrier but as an opportunity for unique talents to shine.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by time slipping away or struggled to find your place in a world not designed for your brain, you’re not alone. We’re here to remind you that there’s more to ADHD than just the struggles, and with the right support, your strengths can take center stage.
Curious to hear more about Amanda’s journey and tips for navigating ADHD? 🎧 Tune into the episode, Revealing Our ADHD Strengths, Not Deficits. A Better Approach With Amanda Riley, to dive deeper into this conversation and discover how you can start seeing your ADHD in a new light. You can find us on all major podcast platforms—don't miss out on a chance to feel included, encouraged, and empowered.
