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Ready to uncover the hidden superpower behind ADHD? In this episode of Empowered and Unapologetic, I’m joined by the amazing Chrissy Lawler, a fellow therapist and mom, as we dive into the reality of living with ADHD as high-achieving women.

We dive deep into what it’s like to navigate life with ADHD, especially as high-achieving women. From figuring out the diagnosis to embracing it as a superpower, we share our personal journeys and discuss practical strategies to manage those whirlwind ADHD symptoms. Whether you’re juggling motherhood, a career, or both, this episode is packed with insights on how to turn ADHD into your secret weapon.

Summary

• ADHD in Women: Often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to shame and self-doubt, with symptoms manifesting differently than in men.
• Productivity Boost: Recognizing ADHD symptoms and creating tailored systems can lead to a more productive and fulfilling life.
• Dopamine and Systems: Finding ways to incorporate dopamine into tasks and setting up effective systems can help manage ADHD symptoms and enhance productivity.
• Delegation and Support: Delegating tasks and seeking support can reduce stress and overwhelm, especially for overwhelmed mothers juggling career and family.
• Embrace and Thrive: Embracing ADHD as a unique strength and finding personalized strategies is key to thriving, along with open communication and support from others.

Meet Chrissy: The ADHD Warrior and My “Sister from Another Mister”

In a recent episode of the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with my “sister from another mister,” Chrissy Lawler. This incredible woman is not just a licensed marriage and family therapist, but also a mother of four and a serial entrepreneur. She’s the brilliant mind behind The Peaceful Sleeper and The Peaceful Mind Counseling Center. We dove deep into a topic that has reshaped her life—discovering she had ADHD as an adult. Spoiler alert: It’s a revelation that has revolutionized both her personal and professional life.

The Aha Moment: “Wait, I Have ADHD?”

Like many of us high-achieving women, Chrissy didn’t realize she had ADHD until adulthood and, yep, motherhood. The lightbulb moment happened about ten years ago when she was working with a client diagnosed with ADHD. As her client ticked off the symptoms, Chrissy couldn’t help but think, “Hey, that sounds an awful lot like me!” Turns out, the quirks she thought were just part of her normal were actually ADHD traits hiding in plain sight.

Growing Up ADHD: Where Perfectionism Meets Anxiety

Chrissy started connecting the dots and realized her ADHD had been her little shadow since childhood. But with three brothers to keep up with, and being the first girl in the pack, she was always on the go—making it easy to mask her ADHD. She was a straight-A student, but here’s the kicker: She could never retain information. History class? Forget about it—literally! She’d read a chapter and not remember a single detail. But give her a test, and she’d ace it by mastering how to study for exams without truly absorbing the material.

Busy Bee: Keeping the ADHD Brain Happy

Chrissy’s life was a whirlwind of activities—AP classes, sports, you name it. All of this busyness? It was her secret sauce for keeping her ADHD brain occupied and focused. But after her second child, things got real. The lack of structure, especially in her professional life, started to unravel her. No strict deadlines, no accountability, and suddenly, the messes she’d been avoiding caught up with her. And yes, that included the hilarious (and frustrating) habit of constantly forgetting essential items like shoes and diapers.

ADHD Is Not a Flaw—It’s a Brain Difference

One of the best parts of our chat was when Chrissy talked about how she stopped seeing ADHD as a personal flaw. Instead, she began to understand it as a brain difference that simply requires different strategies. Forget the traditional tools like post-it notes and Trello boards—they don’t always cut it for ADHD brains. Chrissy highlighted the need to find methods that actually work for you, not just what works for everyone else.

“Start embracing the power that is the female ADHD brain.” – Chrissy Lawler

Attention Mismanagement: The ADHD Tug of War

Another gold nugget from Chrissy? ADHD isn’t just about being easily distracted—it’s about attention mismanagement. One minute you’re all over the place, and the next, you’re laser-focused like a superhero. If you can harness this duality, it’s a superpower. But, like any turbocharged engine, you need to know when to hit the brakes, or you’ll burn out fast.

Dopamine Deficiency: Why Boring Tasks Are the Worst

Chrissy dropped some serious knowledge on dopamine and ADHD. She explained that the ADHD brain often procrastinates because it’s craving dopamine, which is lacking in mundane tasks like paperwork or paying bills. Her solution? “Bake in some dopamine” by finding ways to make these boring tasks a bit more engaging or rewarding. For Chrissy, this might mean using a massager while making calls or treating herself to a pedicure while tackling her to-do list.

“There’s no dopamine in tasks that you are procrastinating.” – Chrissy Lawler

Juggling Chaos: The ADHD Superpower

For Chrissy, juggling multiple tasks is her jam—it’s where she feels most empowered and productive. But she’s wise enough to know that balance is key. She schedules regular downtime, like a spa day or a weekend getaway, to recharge her batteries. It’s all about staying productive without letting the chaos take over.

The Power of Delegation: Know Thy Strengths

One of Chrissy’s biggest revelations was accepting that some tasks just aren’t her thing. Instead of stressing over them, she delegates. Whether it’s hiring support staff or letting someone else manage her schedule, Chrissy focuses on what she’s good at. This not only keeps her on track but also keeps the stress at bay.

Systems for Success: The ADHD Survival Kit

Veronica here—I totally relate to Chrissy’s experience! We both know the importance of having systems in place to manage our ADHD brains. But let’s be real: these systems need to be flexible because what works today might not work tomorrow. The key is adaptability—constantly tweaking and adjusting to stay productive and sane.

Embracing ADHD: From Struggle to Superpower

At the end of the day, Chrissy and I agree on one thing: It’s all about self-acceptance. Understanding your brain, embracing your quirks, and finding creative ways to work within your limits is the ultimate game-changer. By doing this, you can turn what might seem like a struggle into a superpower—thriving both personally and professionally.

So, here’s to all the ADHD warriors out there! Embrace your unique brain, find your systems, and keep thriving.

Meet Chrissy Lawler

Chrissy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, mom of four, and lover of sleep!

She is the owner of the sleep consulting company The Peaceful Sleeper, where she helps mamas and their babies get the sleep that they need.

Chrissy’s ultimate goal is to help mothers reclaim the magic of motherhood.

Visit her website and connect on Instagram and Facebook.

TALK TO A THERAPIST

If you’re feeling stuck and ready to explore these challenges more deeply, consider reaching out for professional help. Here at Outside the Norm Counseling, we’re here to support you on your journey to self-discovery and confidence. For more information, go to Outside the Norm Counselingor call us at 951-395-3288.

Thank you for joining me today. Remember, you are beautiful, you are worthy and empowered. Until next time, stay unapologetically you. Bye for now.

Useful links:

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic
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• Check out the new website! https://veronicacisneros.org/
• Outside The Norm Counseling – 951 395 3288 call to schedule an appointment today!
• 5 Things that are Killing your Marriage Free Guide available at www.veronicacisneros.org

Meet Veronica Cisneros

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

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Thanks for listening!

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