My ADHD Diagnosis: Introduction to Felipe and His ADHD Journey
Meet Felipe Zago, a 32-year-old social media strategist who has been navigating life with ADHD. Felipe’s story is one of discovery, perseverance, and self-growth, shaped by his unique experiences and his diagnosis.
From performing in circus shows to managing the challenges of ADHD in relationships and work, Felipe shares insights into how ADHD has influenced his life and how he’s learned to embrace both its challenges and its superpowers.
Discovering ADHD: A Late Diagnosis That Changed Everything
“I always knew my brain worked differently,” Felipe reflects. His journey toward understanding ADHD began in 2019, but it wasn’t until three years ago, while living in the Netherlands, that he received an official diagnosis and started taking medication.
“Before my diagnosis, I struggled to focus unless something was incredibly stimulating. It wasn’t laziness, but for years, that’s what I believed.”
The Impact of ADHD on Relationships and Daily Life
Felipe admits that ADHD deeply influenced his personal relationships and daily routines.
“In relationships, I sought pleasure and used my partner as a form of entertainment. I avoided tasks with long-term benefits, focusing instead on immediate rewards. This mindset bled into my circus career, where I often skipped the fundamentals necessary for growth.”
Challenges Felipe Faced Before His Diagnosis
The Struggle with Consistency
One of Felipe’s biggest challenges has been maintaining focus and consistency in his career. “I’d lose interest in jobs the moment they stopped stimulating my brain. I have many skills, but I never mastered any of them.”
Executive Functioning Roadblocks
Felipe recalls one specific project:
“I had all the tools and knowledge to complete it, but I simply couldn’t bring myself to finish. The excitement of starting the job was far greater than actually doing it.”
Misconceptions and Misunderstandings
Felipe faced criticism from those who didn’t understand ADHD.
“People called me lazy or unmotivated. It took years of therapy to reframe these thoughts and distance myself from such negativity.”
Medication: A Life-Changing Tool
Felipe’s experience with Ritalin was transformative.
“The first day I took it, I finished a project I had been procrastinating on for months. I cried when I realized I wasn’t lazy—I just needed support.”
Although hesitant at first, Felipe now encourages others to trust medical advice.
“If a psychiatrist recommends medication, give it a try. It can change your life, as it did mine.”
Strategies That Work: Managing ADHD Effectively
Building Structure and Accountability
Felipe relies on tools like journaling to stay on track.
“Writing down my plans the night before keeps me accountable. Checking things off feels as rewarding as eating candy.”
Physical Activity and Diet
“Exercise is crucial for me. On days I work out in the morning, I’m far more productive. Diet matters too—protein-heavy meals help me stay focused, while carbs and sugar derail me.”
Tackling Procrastination
Felipe’s simple mantra?
“Do the overwhelming tasks first. Focus on one thing at a time. Multitasking doesn’t work.”
Navigating Relationships with ADHD
ADHD often complicates communication and emotional regulation, but Felipe has found ways to adapt:
- Alone Time: “Even though I dislike it at first, being alone helps me recharge.”
- Open Communication: “I let my partner know when I’m emotionally vulnerable and ask to postpone conversations until I’m calmer.”
He advises others to embrace physical activities together, such as hiking or climbing, which foster connection while managing ADHD symptoms.
My ADHD Diagnosis and in Professional Life: A Double-Edged Sword
As a social media strategist, Felipe views ADHD as both a challenge and an advantage.
“My creativity thrives thanks to ADHD. My chaotic thought patterns lead to innovative ideas. However, staying structured and efficient remains a struggle.”
He emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries with social media, admitting,
“It’s addicting. I’ve learned to ask for nudges from loved ones to stay present.”
Reflections and Advice from Felipe
Looking back, Felipe wishes he’d known that strategies and treatments existed earlier.
“I developed toxic self-criticism because I didn’t understand my brain. If I had known, I could’ve avoided years of doubt.”
For those feeling held back by ADHD, Felipe offers a powerful reminder:
“Life isn’t one-size-fits-all. Find what works for you and live life on your terms. ADHD doesn’t define you—it’s just part of your story.”
Success and Society’s Role in Understanding ADHD
Felipe’s vision of success is beautifully simple:
“Success is having a loving family and friends by my side on my deathbed. It’s living life authentically.”
He hopes society can foster greater empathy, stating,
“We need to stop forcing people into predefined molds. There are countless ways to achieve the same goal.”
Felipe’s Game-Changing Tips for ADHD
- Tool: The “TickTick” app for managing tasks and reminders.
- Mindset: “Everyone is different, and that’s okay. Don’t compare your journey to others. Just focus on the next step.”
Final Thoughts
Felipe’s story highlights the challenges and triumphs of living with ADHD. His advice, insights, and strategies offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating similar journeys.
If you or someone you love is managing ADHD, remember: support, understanding, and empathy go a long way. As Felipe reminds us, “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—find what works for you.”
Have you read Megan’s journey?
Join Our Community!
Feeling inspired by Felipe’s journey? Join our community of neurodivergent individuals and their loved ones! Share your story, discover tips, and connect with others navigating life with ADHD. Together, we can create a space of support, understanding, and growth.
Thanks Felipe – This certainly resonates