I've had ADD my whole life

The hyperactivity ('H') was not noticeable in my case, and AD(H)D never had much impact on my daily activities. I was always on time for school and had no trouble finding a balance between my homework and the things that truly interested me. I could effortlessly divide my focus among everything I needed to do, so everything seemed to go smoothly.

 

In short, no clouds on the horizon...
Yeah right!

 

I used to be very frustrated that my school career didn't go as I just described.

It seemed like everyone around me effortlessly passed all exams, but not me. I tried everything but didn't achieve the desired result. Why couldn't I concentrate like everyone else? Often I didn't finish my homework, or only partially. I hoped there would be no homework check. With a bit of bluffing here and there, I tried to give the impression that I had done my work.
Sometimes I asked teachers to explain exactly what the point was of learning certain subjects. An example of this. In mathematics, at the beginning of a paragraph, it often stated what its future application could be.

For economics topics, I was convinced that I would never use that knowledge. That's why I asked the teacher why I had to learn all this. The answer was always: "Just because you have to." This answer had a hugely negative impact on my motivation.

 

After high school, I didn't know what I wanted to do. I started various studies and went through various odd jobs. Eventually, I muddled along for about four years until I started a sports education. There I discovered that I enjoyed imparting knowledge and helping people. The fact that this took place within the water sports and winter sports industry made it even more attractive. However, over time, I got used to the routine and found little challenge in it. Moreover, I began to dislike the extensive traveling.

I needed a new impetus, but I didn't know exactly what. It seemed interesting to me to learn how to run a business. Retail seemed like a good option for me.

I found a job at an outdoor store and started as a salesperson. Soon I was promoted to assistant store manager. Further advancement did not follow. Mainly because the available positions didn't interest me much.

 

In addition to this work, I also wanted to focus on music, but I lacked energy.

My head filled up faster and irritation came quicker. I could suddenly become extremely angry because someone had used my pen. I realized I needed to change something because this job was not the right choice for me. Then I came to a realization. How could it be possible that after giving strenuous physical lessons, I had enough energy? After seven years, I finally realized that I enjoyed helping people. So leaving retail was clear. But bills still needed to be paid. I was stuck.

During my high school years (late 90s) and afterward, I was often pointed out for my behavioral similarities with ADHD. However, this never led to action because I could not identify myself with the Hyperactive part of ADHD. Additionally, there wasn't much known about ADHD back then. Still, I decided to get tested for ADHD in Amsterdam. After going through that process, it was indeed confirmed that I have ADD. Without the 'H.'

Suddenly, I had an explanation that shed light on everything I had questioned. The feeling of relief was liberating.

 

My mother advised me to see a coach. I was skeptical, given that previous experiences with psychologists and cognitive behavioral therapists had brought me little insight.

"I'm often late and don't know why," I said. To which the answer was, "Use a planner and set an alarm." Such responses were things I had tried countless times before but brought no positive change. Still, what was on the website of this coach appealed to me. Additionally, the first session was free, so why not?

 

This was different! Instead of being given tips on what to change, the coach looked at me as a person. Self-awareness and self-acceptance were immediately central. It brought realization that things just work differently for me, and that's okay! We searched for the 'why' behind my choices and emphasized what did work for me. This was an invaluable discovery for me.

During this process, suddenly everything fell into place. I realized that I wanted to share this knowledge. To give people the right tools to gain control over their lives. To have peace with themselves. To understand why they do the things they do.

 

This gave so much space in my head. I had room for new things again.

I immediately started my training as an ADHD coach and successfully completed it. For the first time in my life, I enjoyed every class.