How an ADHD Diagnosis Led to a Fulfilling Career as an ADHD Coach

After experiencing burnout in her tech job, Megan Glennie made a life-changing decision. She left her stressful career and went back to school to finish her psychology degree. Little did she know that this decision would lead her to a new and fulfilling career as an ADHD coach.

Discovering ADHD Coaching

During the same year that she was completing her degree, Megan's fiancé was diagnosed with ADHD. As she researched the condition to support him, she began to recognize similar symptoms in herself. At the age of 37, Megan Glennie received her own ADHD diagnosis.

While contemplating her next career move, Glennie stumbled upon the field of ADHD coaching. Intrigued by the idea of helping others with ADHD reach their goals, she enrolled in a year-long course offered by the International Coach Federation. This non-profit organization provides training and certification for professional life coaches.

Armed with her new knowledge and skills, Megan Glennie launched her own business dedicated to assisting individuals with ADHD in achieving their full potential.

Focus on the Future

As an ADHD coach, Glennie takes a different approach compared to traditional talk therapy. Rather than delving into past traumas and mental health concerns, she focuses on creating a plan for the future.

"We look at what we know about ourselves and what we can do moving forward," explains Glennie. "Let's make a plan for now and the future."

One of the main challenges faced by individuals with ADHD is executive functioning skills. Many of Glennie's clients come to her seeking assistance with managing their responsibilities, whether it's in the workplace or at home.

Glennie herself can relate to these challenges. "I've struggled with organizational tasks and procrastination," she admits.

Spotting Strengths and Values

When working with clients, Megan Glennie follows a structured approach. Initially, they identify up to three long-term goals and explore their core values and strengths.

"Many individuals with ADHD have negative self-concepts due to the criticism they receive," says Glennie. She emphasizes their strengths while also addressing the challenges they may face.

Throughout the coaching process, Glennie meets with clients once a week for 12 weeks. They review progress, identify obstacles, and develop strategies to overcome them. Additionally, she provides ongoing support via email and shares helpful resources.

Pivoting Careers and Self-Compassion

Glennie's clients have experienced transformative journeys. Some have discovered that they are in the wrong career and have successfully pivoted to a more fulfilling path.

For others, the changes are more subtle. Many clients aspire to be more consistent in their actions, and Glennie helps them redefine what consistency means to them.

Over time, individuals with ADHD often reevaluate their relationship with perfectionism, a common trait. Glennie finds it inspiring to see her clients change their approach to planning, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and embracing flexibility and self-compassion.

"This shift ultimately leads to greater success," Glennie affirms.

Megan Glennie's journey from a burned-out tech professional to a thriving ADHD coach demonstrates the power of embracing one's own unique strengths and using them to help others. Through her work, she is making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with ADHD, empowering them to reach their goals and live fulfilling lives.

References:
Business Insider. (n.d.). A woman quit her stressful tech job and was diagnosed with ADHD. Here's how she turned the diagnosis into a new, fulfilling career.
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By: jpugachevsky@insider.com (Julia Pugachevsky)
Title: How an ADHD Diagnosis Led to a Fulfilling Career as an ADHD Coach
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/adhd-coach-diagnosis-careers-relationships-2023-12
Published Date: Sat, 23 Dec 2023 11:48:01 +0000