New year, new self-awareness: ADHD edition

Happy new year!How self-aware do you think you are? I’m not talking about how often you hear your inner voice(s).Self-awareness isn’t just some fancy wellbeing concept; it’s a game-changer - especially for creative business owners with ADHD. One of my mantras is that raising self-awareness gets you half way towards solving a problem or challenge. When you really get to grips with your strengths, challenges, and go-to strategies, you’ll start to feel more in control of your day (even when it’s a bit chaotic!).

This month I’m sharing some real-life stories and tips to help you build that all-important self-awareness.

Why talking about it helps

One of my clients, who runs a part-time business as a yoga teacher with ADHD, told me that one of the best parts of coaching is having a judgment-free space to talk things through. For her, it’s all about having time to reflect on the strategies she’s been using. Some are brilliant, some need a bit of tweaking, and there are always new ideas to explore. Talking about it helps her figure out what’s working and where there’s room to make useful changes.

Another client, who runs his own IT business and has AuDHD, once said he’d never spoken about certain challenges with anyone before. Keeping everything bottled up had made things feel bigger and way more overwhelming than they actually were. But once he started voicing his thoughts, even the little things (like struggles with his morning routine) began to feel more manageable.

Whether it’s deciding what to wear, figuring out breakfast, or being able to do anything before a meeting or appointment later in the day, these conversations can help you see things from a fresh perspective. And perhaps most importantly, they’re a reminder that you’re not alone - and definitely not “stupid” or “abnormal.”

Zebra, not a broken horse: Embracing your ADHD perspective with greater clarity

For many ADHD business owners, especially if you’re navigating a late diagnosis (official or self-diagnosed), raising self-awareness feels like finding a missing puzzle piece. As one client put it, “I’m a zebra, not a broken horse.”It’s a powerful shift - realising you’re not flawed but simply wired differently. That clarity is freeing. It’s a chance to let go of trying to fit into a neurotypical mould and start figuring out what actually works for you. Self-awareness is the first step in that process, and it’s a biggie (I’ll talk more about acceptance next month!).

Practical ways to boost your self-awareness

Here are a few simple ideas to try:

1. Start a Journal

I’m not talking about keeping a general journal – this is about focusing on something very specific – it might be tracking situations where you tend to overthink or when you people please. What triggers the behaviour? When does it happen most? Spotting patterns can help you tackle them.

Pro tip: Tie journalling to a habit you already have, like brushing your teeth. Set reminders if needed - it’s easy to forget when you’re establishing a new habit, when you’re busy, when you’re easily distracted or your short-term memory isn’t great.

2. Join a neurodivergent community

Look for online groups where people share similar experiences. You’ll get insights, support, and a sense of belonging.

3. Tune Into ADHD podcasts

There are some excellent podcasts out there that can help you learn more about ADHD and yourself. Two great ones to start with:

- The ADHD Adults Podcast

- You’re Wrong About ADHD

4. Find a good listener

Talking to someone who truly listens (and doesn’t turn it into a conversation about them) can make a huge difference. If you’re not sure who to turn to, why not book a 30-minute strategy call with me? No sales strings attached – it’s a chance to talk things through – book here https://go.oncehub.com/strategy-think-tank

Self-awareness takes time and is ongoing, but every small step counts. The more you understand yourself, the more you can build a business and a life that actually works for you.

What’s one small thing you’ll do this week to boost your self-awareness?

Have a super self-aware month!

Best wishes, Lorna

Make confident decisions and take meaningful action, knowing you're spending time on the right things to grow your business.