Christina’s Story

From Chaos to Clarity: Embracing ADHD, Unlocking Potential, and Thriving in Life

My son, Jack, and I on the way to his high school graduation.

For as long as I can remember, I struggled with the feeling of never being enough.

My life was a constant juggling act of responsibilities, dreams, and self-doubt. Despite always being busy, I often felt like I was falling short, unable to keep up with the expectations I set for myself and those set by others. It was a relentless cycle of striving and unfulfilled promises.

Growing up, I was often praised for my intelligence and creativity, but my grades didn’t always reflect those strengths. As I entered adulthood, the traits that once felt like assets began to undermine my confidence. My inability to follow through on projects, stay organized, and manage time efficiently seemed like personal failings rather than symptoms of a deeper issue. My internal narrative was one of constant self-criticism, berating myself for not being disciplined enough or for my perceived shortcomings in areas where others seemed to excel effortlessly.

My lightbulb moment occurred shortly after my 50th birthday. A series of personal and professional challenges led me to seek a deeper understanding of my experiences. The relentless cycle of burnout and frustration drove me to explore what might be behind my lifelong struggles. During this time, a conversation with my mom’s neurologist sparked my interest in getting tested.

Intrigued, I began researching ADHD in adults and discovered that many of the symptoms—chronic disorganization, difficulty maintaining focus, and a constant feeling of overwhelm—mirrored my own experiences. I decided to seek an evaluation from a mental health professional, hoping to finally uncover the root of my challenges.

The diagnosis of ADHD was both a revelation and a relief. It was eye-opening to learn that my lifelong struggles with organization and focus were not just personal failings but part of a neurodevelopmental disorder. The diagnosis provided a new framework to understand my experiences, allowing me to separate my identity from my challenges. It was as if a veil had been lifted, and I could finally see that my difficulties were not a reflection of my worth but rather a manifestation of my ADHD.

Receiving this diagnosis later in life was a turning point. It allowed me to approach my life with a new sense of compassion and self-acceptance. I began to seek out strategies and support that could help me navigate my daily challenges more effectively. Therapy, medication, and organizational tools became vital components of my journey toward managing ADHD.

In embracing my diagnosis, I also found the courage to share my story with others, hoping that my experiences might offer solace and understanding to those who feel similarly. The journey to my ADHD diagnosis has been transformative, guiding me toward a deeper understanding of myself and a newfound appreciation for my unique strengths and challenges. It has taught me that being “enough” is not about meeting impossible standards but about embracing who I am with all my quirks and complexities.

Today, I view my ADHD not as a limitation but as a part of the rich tapestry of who I am. It has reshaped my perspective, helping me to find balance and acceptance in a life that once felt overwhelmingly disorganized. My journey has been one of self-discovery and growth, and I am grateful for the clarity this diagnosis has brought into my life.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UCLA and have extensive coach training and certifications through the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI), Mentor Coach, and the Professional Association of ADHD Coaches (PAAC). I combine evidence-based coaching techniques with a deep personal understanding of the complexities of ADHD. My approach is rooted in fostering self-awareness, building practical skills, and cultivating resilience.

I am looking forward to working together to carve your unique path in life.