Unapologetically ADHD

This past weekend, I officially graduated with my Master of Healthcare Administration, all while working full-time and raising three young kids! To be honest, I walked because I wanted my kids to see the magic and excitement in it, but I didn’t realize what it truly meant or how significant it was. I was thinking of it as just something I did and no big deal. The support from the people I keep closest to me wouldn’t let me think that way and showed me what an amazing achievement it was.

From my perspective, my ADHD brain just put my head down and did it. There was no thought about falling short or not completing it. It’s cliché to say, but I thought of Elle Woods’ character saying, “What, like it’s hard?” That quote makes so much sense to me because there was no option but to complete the degree, so I just simply got it done. I do think my ADHD brain was a driving factor because I thrive on chaos and perform better, so adjusting my schedule to wake up at 3:45am was nothing crazy. I got up to get a workout in, to level and calm my brain so I could focus and complete schoolwork right after working out, before my kids would wake up for school. By the time it was time for them to wake up and get ready for school, I had already worked out, completed 1-1.5 hours of schoolwork, gotten myself ready for the day, and made lunches. I look back now and realize how crazy it all sounds! But there is always a silver lining, while I did gain another graduate degree I also gained appreciatation for my family and in the little things. I am calmer now and fell less stressed because of my experience, which I am grateful for. Again I will state that ADHD is my super power!

My husband and kids have been amazing through the process. They have been supportive and understanding, now I am excited to give my all to them and celebrate their wins!