In therapy, it often happens that clients with late-diagnosed ADHD come with an extremely negative self-talk.

Even after receiving an ADHD diagnosis, which largely explains their behavior, they still habitually blame certain aspects of their behavior on themselves.

These are the most common things you tell yourself and attribute to your ADHD… and for which you don’t feel better.

However, I offer you a different perspective so that you can see that these are actually your strengths, not weaknesses.

1. “I’m always complaining about injustice!”

You’re not complaining; you’re brave enough and aware enough not to run away from uncomfortable truths and to talk about important social issues.

The ADHD community has a strong sense of justice and a protective attitude toward minorities, which is actually a major motivator for significant social change.

2. “I don’t have the confidence to start.”

You don’t have low self-esteem; you’re surrounded by people who don’t support you and/or scare you instead of encouraging you because of their own lack of self-confidence.

Just because you constantly hear others say “I could never” or “I don’t have the courage” or “It’s too difficult,” doesn’t mean YOU shouldn’t stay persistent in your goals.

3. “I’m sabotaging myself.”

You’re not sabotaging yourself; you’re just so afraid of losing what you already have and love that if you succeed, you’d rather stay where you are.

It’s hard to leave the known for something unknown, even if it’s something better for us.

What’s important is shifting your focus from what you might lose to what you might GAIN.

4. “I give up easily.”

You don’t give up easily; you’re just aware of how much energy it takes for you to take that step, and you take the time to recharge and plan your next move.

Over-analyzing helps you see more potential outcomes and set your action plan. Be careful not to use over-analysis as a hidden excuse for the fear of success.

Yes, you read that right: success can sometimes be just as scary as failure.

5. “I’m shy and feel uncomfortable in social situations.”

You’re not shy; you’re subconsciously protecting yourself because you’re overwhelmed by other people’s energy and likely intuitively feel that you’re not in safe company.

Due to the abundance of mirror neurons and double empathy, you read other people’s nonverbal cues better and recognize behaviors that might not be very friendly.

However, if you tend to defend yourself in every situation, even when you’re surrounded by well-meaning people, seek therapy support.

6.”I’m lazy.”

You’re not lazy; you’re afraid of your own potential because your whole life you’ve been told you’re “too much.”

In ADHD, inaction (rest) is often perceived as not productive enough because we’re full of energy and enthusiasm to contribute to the community. This great desire can sometimes overwhelm us because we see the whole picture but don’t see the next step.

If you feel overwhelmed, think about what is the next smallest step you can take.

Remember, there are always two ways to look at yourself and your behavior:

the one that builds a worse image of you or the one that supports you in creating a supportive image.

Which one do YOU choose from today?

I help you build a healthy relationship with yourself, others, and ADHD, and overcome negative self-talk.

Contact me HERE to schedule a session.