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.
Looking for something else?
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.
About the Author:
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
