Book Review - ADHD is Awesome by Penn & Kim Holderness
.…There are a couple of tools in this book that I think might be particularly useful….
I found myself getting choked up and teary-eyed reading Penn’s introduction. It’s always gratifying to find someone who shares the experience of having ADHD, and Penn’s description of how it impacts his life is both charming and relatable.
The transitions are a bit jumpy, which is probably good for getting through the whole book but might be distracting in itself. Maybe I wasn’t interpreting or understanding it correctly, though; others might not have the same opinion.
There are a couple of tools in this book that I think might be particularly useful. One is the Pain Point Rating System. Penn makes a good point that some of the behaviors that might bug you about having ADHD aren’t necessarily holding you back from success. There’s a handy rating tool to determine where to focus your energy when identifying strategies and interventions that will positively impact your life.
Another especially useful section is Chapter 12, called Charge Your Battery. In this chapter, Penn overviews “The Big Six,” which are six aspects of daily life that, when managed, make significant contributions to a person’s ability to manage ADHD symptoms. These include exercise, sleep, nutrition, connection, medication, and meditation.
In addition to providing an overview of how each of these contributes to a person’s overall well-being, Penn suggests practical tips to implement in your own self-care arsenal.
Kim contributed a lot to the section on caretakers for people with ADHD, but I found it helpful for thinking about situations in which I provide support for others with different issues as well.
One part of the book I didn’t love was Penn’s method of recovering in a conversation when your mind wanders. He recommends a pretty complicated series of if-thens, most of which lead to the other person finishing the story without realizing you hadn’t been paying attention, and only owning up if all attempts to catch up from context clues fail. In my opinion, I prefer to bite the bullet and admit that I lost the plot. An apology and letting the person know you really do want to hear ALL of what they said is going to be healthier for the relationship going forward.
Perhaps my favorite part of the book is the endnotes section. It’s so comprehensive. I wrote down a lot of the references Penn made, and it’s super helpful to know where to go for the original sources.
Final Thoughts:
• Would I Recommend It? Yes
• Who Might Enjoy It: People who are newer to an ADHD diagnosis, people who love people with ADHD who want to hear more from someone else who struggles with it.
• Takeaway Message: It’s a quick read and is pretty light, but with some through-provoking insights.
• Where to find it: Check your local library, or find it on Amazon.
Book Review -Children - Picture Book - My Wandering Dreaming Mind, Merriam Sarcia Saunders
In My Wandering Dreaming Mind, Merriam Sarcia Saunders beautifully captures the world of a young girl, Sadie, who has an active imagination and a mind that loves to wander.
As a child, I often found myself staring out the classroom window, much to the great annoyance of my teachers, who seemed baffled by my frequent daydreaming. No other kid in my class was called out for drifting off as much as I was, and I had no context for why my mind wandered the way it did. Reading My Wandering Dreaming Mind was like revisiting my own childhood—it perfectly captured an experience I had long struggled to understand.
I found this book with the help of one of the many knowledgeable librarians in the children’s’ section of the Grand Rapids Public Library Main Branch, but it can also be found on Amazon.
ADHD Tools - Products - Click Lists - And A Giveaway
Like the WM ADHD Facebook page and the post and be entered to win a keychain click list.
Scroll to the end of the post for information on the giveaway and a link to Facebook.
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurological condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. One of the most challenging aspects of living with ADHD is the difficulty with concentration, particularly when it comes to tasks that don’t inherently hold your interest. For many with ADHD, it’s not that they’re unwilling to do the work; it’s that their brains are wired in such a way that staying focused on non-stimulating tasks feels like an uphill battle. Fortunately, a simple yet effective strategy to combat procrastination and boost productivity is to implement a reward system. By linking tasks with positive reinforcement, individuals with ADHD can motivate themselves to tackle even the most boring or daunting tasks.
Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulty maintaining focus on tasks that don’t stimulate them. Whether it’s a mundane chore, paperwork, or an academic assignment, these tasks may feel overwhelming or tedious, making it easy to avoid them. This section will explore the underlying neurological reasons why concentration on non-preferred tasks is so hard for individuals with ADHD.
ADHD affects executive functioning, which includes the ability to plan, initiate, and sustain attention on tasks. When a task lacks intrinsic interest or is perceived as boring, the brain struggles to engage. This is because the brain’s reward system is less responsive to tasks that don’t immediately provide a sense of pleasure or accomplishment.
The act of putting off tasks can be particularly damaging for those with ADHD. While procrastination may feel like a short-term solution, it often leads to greater stress and anxiety in the long term. The stress of unfinished tasks can build up, making it harder to start the task in the first place.
Putting off tasks often feels like a relief in the moment, but as time goes on, the pressure to complete the task grows. This can create a cycle of increasing stress and anxiety, which further delays action. The task feels heavier the longer it’s avoided, and individuals with ADHD may feel paralyzed by the stress.
Procrastination leads to negative self-talk and feelings of guilt or shame, which can worsen ADHD-related symptoms. This section will explore how procrastination leads to a cycle of self-doubt and how rewarding oneself can counteract these feelings and build positive momentum.
For individuals with ADHD, thinking about rewards can be a powerful tool for motivation. This section will highlight the benefits of establishing a reward system for accomplishing tasks, especially those that feel overwhelming.
Research shows that positive reinforcement, including rewards, can improve focus, performance, and the likelihood of completing tasks. Individuals with ADHD can use rewards to create associations between completing tasks and receiving pleasurable outcomes.
To break the cycle of avoidance, it may help to create something to look forward to once the task is done. This can change the brain’s perspective from focusing on the stress of the task to anticipating the reward that follows.
A reward system works best when it’s tailored to individual preferences. Rewards may be fun, comforting, or relaxing activities that are simple and easy to implement but still satisfying enough to motivate.
Self-Care and Comfort Rewards
These rewards appeal to the need for relaxation and emotional comfort. Examples include cuddling or treating a pet, brushing teeth, combing hair, or engaging in mindfulness practices like meditation.
Creative and Stimulating Rewards
For those who thrive on creativity or intellectual stimulation, rewards might include reading a book, knitting, crocheting, or playing a game. These activities provide a fulfilling mental escape while also rewarding the completion of a task.
Physical and Outdoor Rewards: Taking a break outside, whether it’s a short walk in the sun or sitting in front of a full-spectrum light for a mood boost, can also be a great reward. Exercise or time in nature has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms and enhance focus.
Reward lists are most effective when based on what you personally enjoy. The more personalized the reward, the more effective it will be in motivating task completion.
For individuals with ADHD, it’s important to keep a list of rewards on hand, ensuring that individuals with ADHD have it ready when they need it most.
One easy and discreet way to keep a rewards list accessible is by writing it down on a small card and carrying it in a wallet or pocket. This ensures that the list is available wherever they are, even when faced with the temptation to avoid a task.
For a more visible, tangible, and interactive approach, consider using a keychain click list—a small, portable list attached to a keychain with click-able buttons or tabs. This could be a fun, engaging way to keep rewards within arm’s reach, and the act of clicking through the list can itself provide a bit of satisfaction.
Engaging in rewarding activities engages individuals with ADHD, and counteracts the lack of natural motivation and engage more effectively with tasks.
Procrastination is a common challenge for individuals with ADHD, but using a reward system can help break the cycle of avoidance and improve task completion. Whether it’s a list of self-care activities, creative pursuits, or outdoor rewards, having a set of personalized rewards can motivate individuals to tackle even the most unenjoyable tasks.
By keeping a rewards list easily accessible—whether on a small card in your wallet or a keychain click list—individuals with ADHD can better manage their time and reduce stress. In doing so, they can experience the satisfaction of accomplishing tasks, boosting their productivity and mental well-being in the process.
We’re giving away a keychain click list! Like WM ADHD on Facebook and like the post that links to this blog to be entered before December 31, 2024.
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If you don’t have Facebook but would like to be entered to win, send a message stating your entry via the ‘Book Me” form at wmadhd.com.
Winner will be selected at random from eligible individuals who “Liked” the WM ADHD Facebook page and post. Winner will be notified by Facebook messenger in early January. If the winner does not respond within the timeframe, a new winner will be selected. We can only ship to addresses in the continental United States. No purchase is necessary. Giveaway is void where prohibited by law. Prize is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be redeemed for cash or credit. unless otherwise specified. This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Meta. By entering, participants agree to release and hold harmless any organization or individual from any liability, injury, loss, or damage arising from participation in the giveaway or acceptance of any prize.
About West Michigan ADHD
What is WM ADHD? Our approach, our services, your solutions, who we are, why choose us, and how to connect.
Empowering Individuals and Families to Manage ADHD; Transforming Struggles into Everyday Wins
Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be challenging, whether you’re managing it yourself or helping a loved one. If you’re based in West Michigan, you might be seeking support in managing ADHD’s impact on your personal or professional life. You’re not alone – more people than ever are seeking solutions to ADHD-related struggles. At WM ADHD, we specialize in offering personalized strategies that help individuals take control, improve productivity, and thrive in everyday life.
What is WM ADHD?
At WM ADHD, our mission is simple: to help individuals in West Michigan take practical steps towards managing ADHD. Whether you’re an adult navigating work-life balance or a parent trying to manage your child’s ADHD at school and home, we provide tailored solutions that are realistic, approachable, and rooted in common-sense strategies. ADHD affects each person differently, and we’re here to help you find the unique approach that works for you or your family.
Our Approach: Transforming Routine Struggles into Everyday Wins
ADHD doesn’t need to be a barrier to success. We believe in focusing on real-world, actionable strategies that bring about visible change in people’s lives. Our approach emphasizes ADHD support, ADHD organization coaching, and ADHD strategies that promote long-term success. Whether you’re working on ADHD management at home, in the workplace, or at school, we ensure that our coaching and consulting services are customized to meet your needs.
Our services include:
• ADHD Coaching for Adults: Practical solutions for adults dealing with ADHD in work and home environments.
• ADHD Solutions: Tailored strategies that create structure and improve organization.
• ADHD Organization Coaching: Specific approaches to help you organize your home and workspace effectively.
• ADHD Help in Grand Rapids: Serving the West Michigan area with expert advice and hands-on support.
With our solutions, you can finally conquer everyday ADHD struggles and turn them into wins. Our personalized plans include a mix of digital tools, hands-on strategies, and in-person consultations – all designed to help you stay on track, manage your time, and reduce stress.
How We Help You Overcome ADHD Challenges
ADHD Coaching for Adults
Adults with ADHD often struggle with time management, organization, and the ability to maintain focus – all of which impact both personal and professional success. At WM ADHD, we provide customized coaching that addresses these challenges head-on. Our ADHD strategies for adults are designed to give you the tools to manage your tasks efficiently while reducing anxiety and frustration.
We focus on ADHD management techniques that help adults prioritize their goals, break down tasks into manageable steps, and create actionable systems that simplify daily routines. Whether you are a busy professional, a parent, or someone who simply needs more structure, our approach helps you find solutions that are practical and achievable.
ADHD Support for Parents
Parenting children with ADHD can be especially challenging, as it often requires balancing multiple needs, managing behavior, and staying on top of schoolwork. WM ADHD provides expert consulting services for parents of children with ADHD in West Michigan. We specialize in helping parents create systems for organization, time management, and behavioral strategies that improve their children’s performance both at school and at home.
Our services support parents in teaching their children the skills they need to manage ADHD, while also empowering them to maintain a positive, proactive approach to family life. Whether it’s helping with homework, setting up routines, or providing emotional support, we’re here to offer solutions that work for the entire family.
ADHD Solutions for Better Organization and Time Management
A major challenge for those managing ADHD is staying organized. It’s easy for clutter to pile up, deadlines to slip by, and important tasks to fall through the cracks. At WM ADHD, we provide ADHD organization coaching that helps individuals streamline their daily routines. From simple home organization tips to more advanced strategies for organizing workspaces, we offer practical solutions that help individuals stay on top of everything from paperwork to project management.
We also understand the importance of work-life balance, and our organization systems are designed to help individuals balance both home and work responsibilities, making it easier to stay organized in every aspect of life.
Personalized ADHD Support for Long-Term Success
At WM ADHD, we’re not just about offering temporary solutions. Our services are designed to provide lasting results. We work with each client to develop a clear action plan, set achievable goals, and establish systems that make managing ADHD a long-term success. Whether it’s building better habits, creating structure, or developing coping strategies, we help individuals and families create the foundation for a more organized, productive, and fulfilling life.
About Michele DeWinter & Erin Nemastil – Founders of WM ADHD
Michele brings more than 15 years of experience in working with families to help them resolve issues related to ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergencies. Specializing in creative problem-solving and communication, Michele has helped numerous families navigate the challenges of managing ADHD. Her practical approach empowers parents to support their children in school and at home, while her calm and empathetic manner ensures that all families feel heard and supported.
Erin brings a wealth of experience supporting adult clients in managing ADHD-related struggles in their personal and professional lives. With an extensive background in coaching and consulting, Erin has helped countless individuals transform their day-to-day challenges into manageable tasks, allowing them to reach their goals and reduce stress. Erin is committed to providing tailored strategies that improve focus, organization, and time management for those dealing with ADHD.
Together, Michele and Erin bring a unique combination of experience, empathy, and practical solutions to the ADHD community in West Michigan.
Why Choose WM ADHD?
At WM ADHD, we understand that no two people experience ADHD the same way. That’s why we take a personalized approach to every client, crafting strategies that fit their specific needs. We’re committed to offering practical, everyday solutions that make managing ADHD simpler, less stressful, and more achievable. Whether you’re struggling to stay organized at home or you need strategies to excel at work, we’re here to help you transform your challenges into wins.
Connect with Us
We invite you to join our growing community! You can follow WM ADHD on social media for tips, support, and inspiration:
• Facebook: WM ADHD on Facebook
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We’re here to offer you the tools and support you need to live your best life while managing ADHD. Stay connected and start your journey toward better organization, better time management, and better overall well-being today.
Start Today with WM ADHD
If you’re ready to take the next step in managing ADHD in your life, reach out to us today for a consultation. At WM ADHD, we’re here to help you find solutions, achieve goals, and turn your struggles into everyday wins.