Overcoming Distractions-Thriving with ADHD, ADD

• How can I focus on my strengths as an adult with ADHD?

  Welcome to another episode of Overcoming Distractions! In this episode, Dave sits down with Christopher Richards, a leadership consultant and founder of Atomic Growth. They dig into the unique challenges and surprising strengths of busy professionals with ADHD, exploring how to navigate demanding careers and personal lives. Christopher shares insights from his own journey with ADHD, the philosophy behind Atomic Growth, and practical advice for ADHD’ers with demanding careers and business owners looking to find success and fulfillment without relying on unsustainable pressure. Key discussion points: Atomic Growth's Philosophy: Christopher talks about his holistic approach, called "RISE" (Rituals, Identity, Somatics, Environment), which emphasizes making a meaningful difference beyond just financial gain. The Problem with Pressure: Both David and Christopher highlight how many business owners and professionals rely on immense pressure to achieve goals, often leading to burnout and a lack of real accomplishment despite long hours. They emphasize that effective work doesn't have to be stressful. ADHD and Work Styles: Christopher, who was diagnosed with inattentive ADHD later in life, discusses his unique ability to focus better when engaged in multiple tasks simultaneously, contrasting with David's preference for single-task, undisturbed focus. This highlights the diverse ways ADHD brains can operate and the importance of understanding one's own optimal working environment. The Value of an ADHD Diagnosis: For Christopher, his diagnosis wasn't about a label but about gaining a clearer understanding of how his brain functions to leverage its strengths effectively. Overcoming Self-Imposed Limitations (Demand Avoidance): The discussion touches on "demand avoidance," where individuals with ADHD, even when self-imposing demands, can find their brains resisting. This underscores the need for self-awareness and strategies that align with how an ADHD brain naturally operates. Identifying and Leveraging Strengths: Instead of solely focusing on challenges, David and Christopher emphasize the importance of identifying and utilizing strengths. Connect with Christopher Richards here: https://atomicgrowth.co.uk/ **Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave’s calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min  

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• Why Good Habits Are Mission Critical for Adults with ADHD

  In this episode, Dave dives into why building strong, consistent habits is a game changer for busy adults with ADHD. If you’re juggling a demanding career, a busy home life, and constant mental clutter, this short episode is for you. In this short episode, we’ll explore: Why habits reduce overwhelm, procrastination, and decision fatigue How routines provide structure when executive function falls short The role of dopamine in motivation, and how habits create reward cycles The emotional toll of disorganization and how good habits help rebuild confidence Real-life examples of ADHD-friendly habits that work for busy professionals Tune in and learn how just a few intentional habits can bring more calm, clarity, and control to your ADHD life. **Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave’s calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min  

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• The Thriving Mindset: Purpose, Presence & Progress with ADHD

  In this episode of "Overcoming Distractions," Dave welcomes Rand Selig, author of "Thriving: How to Create a Healthier, Happier, and More Prosperous Life." Rand shares his insights on what it truly means to thrive, especially for busy professionals and those with ADHD. He emphasizes that thriving is more than just getting by, it's about fulfillment, purpose, and living a life that matters. This discussion offers valuable perspectives on personal growth, community involvement, and the science behind a flourishing life, applicable whether you have ADHD or simply seek to enhance your well-being. Discussion Points: Defining Thriving: Rand introduces his high bar for thriving, which transcends merely "getting by" and focuses on a profound sense of fulfillment, purpose, and overall well-being. The Four Dimensions of Thriving: Thriving Personally: The foundation of all other dimensions, focusing on character building, gratitude, purpose, managing emotions, and understanding one's spirituality. The importance of the relationship with oneself. Thriving with Others: Building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of community. Thriving Out in the World: Engaging in service to others, conservation, and volunteering, highlighting how helping others can shift one's perspective and lead to happiness. Thriving by Moving Ever Forward: The continuous process of evolution and becoming a better version of oneself, rather than comparing oneself to others. The Science of Thriving: Rand touches upon scientific frameworks that support his ideas, including: Self-Care and Recharge: The critical need for individuals, especially those with demanding careers and ADHD, to recognize signs of fatigue and burnout, and to implement self-care practices. Being Present: The significance of being fully present in interactions and in moments of reflection, as a source of joy and clarity, and how this contrasts with the ADHD brain's tendency to wander. Intentional Decisions and Habits: The power of making conscious choices about how we spend our time, who we spend it with, and the habits we cultivate. The importance of fostering positive habits and self-awareness in guiding one's "bus" (life's direction). Find rand at his website: https://www.randselig.com/ **Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave’s calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min  

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• 10 signs you need more support as a busy adult with ADHD

  In this episode, we dive into the raw realities that busy adults with ADHD face every day, especially those of you juggling high-pressure careers and demanding home lives. **This episode isn’t about shame.  It’s about seeing yourself clearly and realizing you’re not alone. And understanding there is support out there for you! If you feel like you're always behind, overwhelmed, or silently falling apart while everyone thinks you’ve got it all together, this one’s for you. Dave briefly hits on 10 brutally honest pain points, that capture exactly what it’s like to live with a brain that won’t slow down in a world that won’t wait. From decision fatigue and constant mental clutter to the emotional whiplash of hyper-focus and burnout, we explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. We don’t just name the problems, we agitate them, shine a light on what’s often left unsaid, and tap into fears that can keep us stuck. **Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave’s calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min  

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• Healing Your Nervous System from Stress and Burnout

  Are you a busy professional with ADHD feeling overwhelmed and burned out? You're not alone. This week, David welcomes Brittany Piper, author of Body-First Healing: Get Unstuck and Recover from Trauma with Somatic Healing, and an expert in trauma-informed care, to dig into the profound impact of our modern world on our nervous systems. They discuss how the constant demands of technology, work, and life contribute to chronic stress and burnout, especially for those already navigating the challenges of ADHD. Britt highlights that our nervous system fundamentally seeks safety and connection. Modern life often undermines both, leading to feelings of unsafety within our bodies and relationships, and a sense of "connected but disconnected" through technology. They explore the difference between stress and the cumulative "allostatic load" of chronic stress, emphasizing that simply resting isn't always enough to release built-up tension. Key Discussion Points: The Impact of Modern Life: How 24/7 connectivity and societal pressures overload our nervous systems. Beyond Surface-Level Advice: Why typical burnout advice like "take breaks" often misses the deeper physiological roots of chronic stress. The Body's Silent Signals: Britt explains how stress and trauma are stored in the body, manifesting in physical symptoms like digestive issues, chronic pain, and even changes in facial muscles and hearing. The Role of Early Experiences: The crucial impact of secure attachment in early childhood on developing a resilient nervous system and the potential for "developmental trauma." Unpacking the Past: Recognizing how past experiences, even without overt abuse, can prime our nervous system for survival mode and impact our stress response in adulthood. The Autonomic Loop: Understanding how some high-achievers unknowingly use the energy of unprocessed stress (adrenaline and cortisol) to fuel their careers, leading to eventual crashes. The Meaning of Presence: A glimpse into how to truly become present by engaging the sensory-motor system. Learn more about Brittany Piper on her website: https://www.bodyfirsthealing.com/ **Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave’s calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min  

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