EMBRACING MY ADHD JOURNEY: GUARDING MY HEART

Have you ever felt the weight of others' opinions pressing down on you, shaping your choices and actions? It's a struggle many of us face, sometimes without even realizing it. Something as seemingly insignificant as a comment about our appearance can send us spiraling into self-doubt, causing us to second-guess ourselves and our decisions. But as I've learned on my own journey, it's crucial to guard our hearts against the influence of others and, instead, lean into the truth of who God made us to be.

In Proverbs 4:23 (NLT), we're reminded to "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." These words have become a guiding light for me, especially during moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. Recently, during a heartfelt conversation with my husband, I found myself wrestling with feelings of inadequacy and the tendency to measure my worth by the opinions of others.

As we talked, my husband offered a simple yet profound insight: "Don't let other people's thoughts and opinions live on the inside of you." His words struck a chord within me, serving as a gentle reminder to protect my heart from the influence of external voices. It was a wake-up call to prioritize my mental and emotional well-being, knowing that my heart holds the key to shaping my life's direction.

I've made a conscious decision not to let the judgments and expectations of others define me. Instead, I choose to embrace the truth of who God created me to be—a unique and valued individual, fearfully and wonderfully made, ADHD and all. I refuse to apologize for being true to myself, for living authentically in the light of God's love and acceptance.

So, I encourage you to join me in embracing your true identity as a beloved child of God. Let's guard our hearts against the pressures of conformity and comparison and, instead, walk boldly in the confidence of our God-given purpose. Let's choose to see ourselves through God's eyes, embracing our strengths, weaknesses, and quirks as beautiful reflections of His creativity and grace.

Today, make a commitment to guard your heart above all else. Choose to let God's truth and love shape your thoughts, actions, and decisions. And remember, you are enough, just as you are—a masterpiece in the making, guided by the loving hand of your Creator. I am the “ME” God made!

Let’s Chat!

1. How do you personally navigate the balance between honoring yourself and considering the opinions of others?
2. Can you recall a specific moment when someone's words or actions challenged your self-worth? How did you overcome it?
3. What role does faith play in shaping your self-perception and confidence?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s build a strong and safe community of support!

Coach Kenya Joy❤️

 

Additional Links and Resources:

The "ME" God Made Community

The Total Makeover

Coach Kenya Joy - Coaching Blog

The Total Makeover Store

 

EMBRACING MY ADHD JOURNEY: EXCUSES WRAPPED IN FEAR

Today, I invite you to join me as I explore a deeply personal aspect of my ADHD journey. It has been a journey marked by excuses wrapped in fear but ultimately transformed by the power of faith and self-acceptance.

Fear has a way of dictating our actions, doesn't it? It whispers doubts and insecurities, convincing us that the unknown is something to be feared rather than embraced. For much of my life, fear held me back, especially when it came to seizing opportunities and pursuing my dreams. Every chance for growth was met with a barrage of excuses – excuses that sounded so convincing at the time.

"I don't think I'll be good at it." "I may not be able to learn like everyone else." "I wouldn't be able to complete each task." "They might regret giving me this opportunity."

These excuses, though seemingly valid, were merely disguises for the underlying fear of failure. I was afraid of not measuring up, of not being good enough. And so, I remained stagnant, trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and missed opportunities.

ADHD: Shedding Light on Fear

It wasn't until I received my ADHD diagnosis that I began to understand the root of my excuses. ADHD brought light to my struggles with attentiveness, focus, and motivation – characteristics that I once viewed as flaws. I didn't want to confront these limitations; I feared being seen as inadequate or incapable. So, I hid behind my excuses, using them as shields to protect myself from judgment and criticism.

But hiding only perpetuated my fear. It wasn't until I embraced my ADHD journey – with all its challenges and complexities – that I began to see it not as a weakness but as a part of who I am. And in doing so, I discovered a newfound sense of empowerment and self-acceptance.

In 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT), we are reminded, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." These words resonate deeply with me, especially in the context of my ADHD journey. God has not called us to live in fear but to embrace the power and love He has bestowed upon us.

I am reminded that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, ADHD and all. I am a unique creation endowed with gifts and talents that are meant to be shared with the world. Instead of allowing fear to dictate my actions, I choose faith – faith in myself and faith in God's plan for my life.

Embracing the "ME" God Made

Today, I stand on the other side of fear, no longer shackled by excuses or insecurities. I am learning to embrace the "ME" God made – flaws and all. I may stumble along the way, but I am no longer afraid to take that leap of faith, knowing that God is by my side every step of the way.

So, to anyone struggling with fear and self-doubt, I offer this encouragement: You are not alone. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, uniquely equipped to fulfill God's purpose for your life. Embrace your journey, ADHD and all, and trust that God will guide you through every obstacle and challenge.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of faith and self-discovery. Until next time, remember: You are loved, you are valued, and you are enough, just as you are. 

I am the “ME” God Made!

Let’s Chat!

1. How has fear influenced your decisions in life?
2. Can you relate to making excuses as a way to avoid facing your fears?
3. What role does faith play in overcoming challenges like ADHD?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s build a strong and safe community of support!

Coach Kenya Joy❤️

 

Additional Links and Resources:

The "ME" God Made Community

The Total Makeover

Coach Kenya Joy - Coaching Blog

The Total Makeover Store

EMBRACING MY ADHD JOURNEY: I NEEDED HELP!

In my journey with ADHD, seeking help felt like scaling a mountain. Why was it so difficult? What kept me from exploring therapy beyond my diagnosis? It was the apprehension of seeking help outside of relying solely on God. Yes, I firmly believe that God can heal, set free, and deliver, but I also acknowledge that God provides help through various means.

Scripture reminds me of this truth: "That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:10, NLT)

I knew deep down that I needed support. The longing for someone to confide in, to guide me through life, was always there. Yet, despite my awareness, I hesitated to disclose my struggles beyond my immediate family circle. The fear of judgment and stigma loomed over me like a dark cloud.

Nevertheless, I pushed through and sought help. It wasn't easy. Initially, attending therapy sessions felt like stepping into unfamiliar territory with my guard up. The echoes of my upbringing haunted me, casting doubts on the validity of seeking outside assistance. Eventually, I succumbed to those doubts and discontinued therapy altogether. But did I still need help? Absolutely.

Leaving therapy turned out to be a grave mistake. I allowed societal stigma and personal shame to override my need for support, and I suffered the consequences. It took a spiritual awakening for me to realize the gravity of my decision. A dear friend's prayer resonated deeply within me, reminding me of the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit and His guidance.

Today, my perspective on therapy has shifted. I no longer view seeking help as a sign of weakness but rather as an act of courage and self-care. Recognizing my weaknesses has only strengthened my faith, for in my vulnerability, God's strength shines through. I am learning to embrace the "ME" that God intended me to be, imperfections and all. I am the “ME” God made!

Let’s Chat!

1. Have you ever felt hesitant to seek help for your struggles? What held you back?
2. How do you think societal stigma impacts individuals seeking therapy for ADHD or other mental health issues?
3. In what ways do you integrate your faith or spirituality into your journey of seeking help or therapy?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Coach Kenya Joy💖

 

Additional Links and Resources:

The "ME" God Made Community

The Total Makeover

Coach Kenya Joy - Coaching Blog

The Total Makeover Store

 

EMBRACING MY ADHD JOURNEY: OVERCOMING SHAME & STIGMA

Come sit with me for a while as I share the cozy corners of my heart and the warmth of my faith journey. Today, I want to invite you into the comforting embrace of my story, where I’ve navigated the twists and turns of living with ADHD amidst the loving arms of my Christian community. Together, let’s cozy up to Psalms 139:14 and Ephesians 2:10 as we find comfort in scripture and the gentle glow of friendship.

Picture a crackling fireplace on a chilly evening—warm and inviting. That’s how I envision overcoming the shame and stigma surrounding my ADHD diagnosis. Initially, the weight of judgment and doubt threatened to snuff out the flame of my spirit. But through the flicker of faith, I found the courage to rise above.

In the quiet moments of prayer, I discovered a refuge from the storms of self-doubt. Each whispered prayer became a tender embrace from a loving Father who saw beyond my struggles to the beauty within. Psalms 139:14 wrapped me in a blanket of reassurance, reminding me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, quirks and all.

Overcoming Misconceptions:

Through prayer and reflection, I began to dismantle the lies perpetuated by shame and stigma. I savored the sweet truths found in scripture. Ephesians 2:10 whispered secrets of my divine purpose, reassuring me that my ADHD was not a mistake but a masterpiece in progress. With each revelation, I peeled back layers of shame to reveal the radiant truth of my identity in Christ.

Rather than viewing ADHD as a hindrance, I embraced it as a gift bursting with creativity. Through the lens of faith, I discovered the hidden treasures buried within my unique brain wiring. With the Holy Spirit as my guide, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, transforming obstacles into stepping stones of growth.

Living Authentically:

As I wrap myself in the warmth of authenticity, I invite you to join me by the fire. Let’s sip on cups of grace and share stories of resilience. Together, we’ll embrace our imperfections as badges of honor, knowing that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, ADHD and all. In this cozy corner of acceptance, let’s celebrate the masterpiece that is each of us.

As the fire dims and the stars twinkle outside our window, I’m reminded of the warmth and friendship found in faith. Through the ups and downs of my ADHD journey, I’ve discovered that the greatest comfort comes from embracing the truth of who I am in Christ. So, dear friend, let’s continue this journey together, hand in hand, knowing that we are never alone in the embrace of our loving Creator. I am the “ME” God made!

Let’s Chat!

1. How has your faith journey influenced your perspective on living with ADHD?
2. Can you share a moment where scripture provided comfort and reassurance amidst ADHD struggles?
3. How do you navigate the stigma surrounding ADHD within your Christian community?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

 

Coach Kenya Joy❤️

 

Additional Links and Resources:

The "ME" God Made Community

The Total Makeover

Coach Kenya Joy - Coaching Blog

The Total Makeover Store