Running a Business with ADHD: A few tips from my journey
This blog post is inspired by Episode 7 of the Awaken with Maria Serbus podcast.
Please note: this is NOT a 'what is ADHD' post and Maria is NOT a medically trained ADHD expert or doctor. She speaks from self experience and years learning executive functioning and emotional regulation skills as a practicing and licensed occupational therapist and mental health professional. This advice is NOT occupational therapy services.
Running a business can be challenging for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). If you have ADHD or not, my journey may provide some helpful tips.
For most of my life, I suspected that I had ADHD, but I never sought an official diagnosis. Instead, I self-managed my symptoms and I found that prioritizing good sleep, movement, and whole foods made a significant difference. It has been helpful to learn how to manage my executive disfunction and emotional disregulation on my own.
When I started my own business, I found the lack of routine to be challenging. For the first time in my life I sought official diagnosis and tried prescription medication, but I personally felt less connected to my body (something that is important to me in my mindfulness journey). So I ditched the medication, consulted a holistic wellness provider, and began taking vitamin supplements. In addition I have implemented grounding practices to calm and regulate my nervous system.
I've also learned to lean into my strengths and accept that it's okay to be a busy, Type A person. However, I've also learned to recognize when my busyness is causing increased stress and irritability, and to implement tools to help me calm the chaos. These tools include breathing exercises, grounding my body, and cleaner eating.
Additionally, having structure and accountability can be helpful. With ADHD, it's easy to get distracted and pulled in multiple directions. Having someone to hold me accountable and remind me to ground myself has been incredibly helpful.
In conclusion, running a business with ADHD is challenging, but it's not impossible. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and implementing helpful tools, individuals with ADHD can successfully run a business. Remember to lean into your strengths and be kind to yourself when things get overwhelming.
BONUS: If you are ready to help calm your busy mind, you need to start with calming your body by using a system to manage emotions! Learn more about Maria’s self paced, ready now signature system here: Shift Transform Method for ambitious women with busy minds/ ADHD.
If you'd like to see a certain topic covered or you have questions, email me or connect with me on social media below!
As a mom and self-proclaimed high-achieving entrepreneur herself, Maria Serbus is a mindfulness coach, stress management consultant, and keynote speaker in southeastern Minnesota.
To learn more, check out the Awaken with Maria Serbus podcast.
