For a long time, I thought I was just careless. Misreading things, trying hard not to forget stuff, or being a bit accident-prone – it all seemed like my personal quirks. But in 2023, everything clicked into place when I was diagnosed with ADHD. It wasn’t carelessness; it was my brain wired differently.
Often, ADHD is misinterpreted as something only hyperactive kids deal with. But for adults like me, it manifests in unique ways. I used to get overwhelmed with organising simple tasks, and while running, I’d start walking even when I wasn’t tired. It turns out, it wasn’t a physical thing – ADHD had a part to play.
Living with ADHD is like dealing with a bunch of tangled Christmas lights. Everything you need is there, but it’s all intertwined and confusing. Running has been my way of untangling those wires. It provides a moment of clarity where I can sort through the jumble in my head.
Understanding my ADHD has also helped me strive for a healthier work-life balance. It’s tempting with ADHD to hyperfocus – to run 17 miles (hypothetically!) just because I can – but now, I’m learning to listen to my body and mind, finding that sweet spot between challenge and and just being crazy.
ADHD is a part of who I am, and running has become an essential tool in managing it. Running can do some of the tidying up for me 😉
