A Simple Strategy for Managing ADD
by Jennifer Koretsky
As an ADD Coach,
I usually begin my conversations with new and potential clients
by saying, "Tell me about yourself and why you're looking
for coaching." Most people answer with a long list of their
ADD challenges. Very few people answer that they are looking to
discover, enhance, or utilize their strengths. This is a big part
of coaching, and a part that many people need a lot of help with.
Unfortunately, many
ADDers spend too much of their time focusing on what they think
they do wrong. This is understandable; as most of us have spent
a lifetime learning how to deal with attention inconsistency,
impulsivity, hyperactivity, emotional reactivity, and other challenges
that our ADD has presented. However, few of us actually take time
to appreciate our ability to manage these challenges and bounce
back from the difficult times. And when we don't balance the good
stuff with the not-so-good stuff, we can become frustrated, unmotivated,
and unhappy.
Every
single person in this world has strengths and interests –
things we do well and things we like to do. Learning to focus
some time on those strengths and interests can help lift the spirits
– and self-esteem – of ADDers. Here are some ways
in which you can increase the time you spend thinking about your
strengths and interests:
• Make a list of
all your accomplishments in life – both large and small
– and post this list where you'll see it often
• Make
a list of all the things you do well, and all the things you
like to do – and post this list, too
• Keep a journal or notebook in which you detail all your
daily successes
• Accept every compliment you receive with a smile and
a "thank you"
After
you have spent some time thinking about your strengths and accomplishments,
you can take this knowledge and self-awareness a step further
by setting some small goals for yourself that involve your strengths
and interests. If you're good with people, maybe you'd like to
try volunteering at a homeless shelter or senior center. If you
like dancing, perhaps you can take a class every
week.
We all deserve to
spend time doing what we like to do, and not just what we have
to do. So allow yourself to appreciate your strengths and interests,
and treat yourself to the luxury of enjoying them! Chances are,
it will make you a much happier person.
©
Jennifer Koretsky
Jennifer Koretsky
is a Professional ADD Management Coach who helps adults manage
their ADD and move forward in life. She encourages clients to
increase self-awareness, focus on strengths and talents, and create
realistic action plans. She offers a 90-day intensive skill-building
program, workshops, and private coaching. Her work has been featured
in numerous media, including The New York Times Magazine and The
Times (UK). To subscribe to Jennifer's free email
newsletter, The ADD Management Guide, please visit
www.addmanagement.com/e-newsletter.htm