Individuals with ADD and ADHD have a difficult time seeing how his or her behavior affects other people. Whether it’s a boss, spouse or friend, people with ADD/ADHD don’t always understand our moments.
So how do we help others better understand these times? Just because we want them to understand our ADD/ADHD doesn’t mean it’s going to happen. Unfortunately forgiveness or understanding is something people aren’t always willing to give us in return.
People with ADD/ADHD have a tendency towards a Narcissistic way of thinking. For example, my wife doesn’t always understand my moments. I also expect her to understand when I do something impulsive or don’t focus on a conversation. Many individuals struggle in personal and professional relationships because he/she does not discuss his/her moments. Instead of helping the other individual better understand us, we just assume he/she gets us.
Here are some suggestions on how to help others understand our moments…
- Tell those close to you about your ADD/ADHD and how it manifests itself.
- Study your mannerisms and realize how these impact others.
- Be sure to take regular movement breaks so you don’t get stuck in a rut.
- Just because you ask for forgiveness, doesn’t mean you’re going to get it. Be prepared to have people not accept your apology.
- Try to see the situation from the other side. Script out how your behaviors impact others and why.
- No matter what happens, remember that there’s people that love and care about you, so focus your energies on those relationships. People won’t always like you despite your desires towards that individual.
For more helpful tips an suggestions, please check out my ADHD Guru podcast on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. You can also find me on Twitter (@adhdguru) and Instagram (@adhdguru). Feel free to email me at [email protected] or call 877.398.ADHD (2343) with any additional questions.