Smart ADHD Stories with Ash Borland

By Ian Anderson Gray with Ash Borland

Smart ADHD Podcast

Episode 11

Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes 49 seconds

Episode Theme: Stories

Full Transcript

July 18, 2024

Smart ADHD Stories Ash-1

Have you ever wondered how someone can thrive in business while managing ADHD and dyslexia?
What practical strategies can help manage the unique challenges of ADHD?
How important are structure, discipline, and mentorship in achieving success with ADHD?

In this episode, we dive deep into these questions with Ash Borland, a business owner, father, and minimalist who has mastered the art of simplifying success while navigating the complexities of ADHD. Ash shares his personal journey, strategies, and the importance of self-awareness and adaptive behaviours.

In this episode:

  • [0:00] – Taking Responsibility: My Fault and Impulse Control
  • [0:34] – Introduction to the Smart ADHD Podcast
  • [1:39] – Guest Introduction: Ash Borland’s Mission
  • [2:59] – Ash’s ADHD Realization and Diagnosis Journey
  • [11:59] – Childhood Reflections: Early Signs of ADHD
  • [17:59] – Hyperfocus and High IQ: A Double-Edged Sword
  • [23:50] – Daily Structure and Discipline: Coping Mechanisms
  • [27:00] – Impulse Control and Binge Eating Struggles
  • [37:18] – Motivation and Ambition: Overcoming Challenges
  • [44:45] – The Role of External Influences
  • [45:22] – A Unique Relationship Dynamic
  • [48:11] – Mentorship and Hero Worship
  • [50:09] – Balancing Affirmation and Criticism
  • [55:05] – The Struggle with Comparison
  • [1:01] – Living with Anxiety
  • [1:08] – Practical Strategies for Managing ADHD
  • [1:12] – Facing Misconceptions and Stigmas
  • [1:15] – Future Plans and Personal Growth
  • [1:20] – Final Thoughts and Advice

Embracing ADHD: Realisation and Diagnosis

Ash Borland’s story is so interesting. Diagnosed with ADHD at 32, Ash reflects on the journey leading up to his realisation. Growing up, he always felt different but couldn’t quite pinpoint why. It was only in adulthood that the pieces of the puzzle started to come together. For many, the journey to diagnosis can be confusing and fraught with mixed emotions. Ash shares how understanding his condition brought a sense of clarity and empowerment, allowing him to approach life and business with a renewed perspective.

The Power of Structure and Discipline

One of the key takeaways from my chat with Ash is the importance of structure and discipline. ADHD can often lead to chaotic and overwhelming days, but having a solid daily routine can be a game-changer. Ash swears by time blocking and setting clear boundaries for tasks. This not only helps in managing time effectively but also reduces the anxiety that comes with unpredictability. Whether you’re juggling multiple roles or trying to focus on a single project, adopting a disciplined approach can significantly enhance productivity and wellbeing.

Mentorship and External Influences

We also delved into the significance of mentorship and external influences. Ash highlights how surrounding himself with the right people has been pivotal in his journey. Mentors provide not just guidance but also a different perspective, helping to navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Hero worship, as Ash calls it, can be motivating when balanced with a healthy dose of self-criticism and affirmation. The key is to learn from others while staying true to your own path and not falling into the trap of constant comparison.

Ash’s journey and insights offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating ADHD or similar challenges. His emphasis on self-awareness, structure, and the right support system can make a world of difference.

What’s your biggest challenge with setting up your content creation studio? Share your thoughts in the comments section below, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more valuable insights!

Watch Episode 11

KF

About Ash Borland

Ash is a business owner, father, and minimalist. His mission is to simplify success, driven by his determination to thrive with dyslexia and ADHD.

Transcript

[0:00] Ash: It was my fault. It was no one else's fault. went to that environment I had misjudged it. and I'd misjudged it as well because everybody was like super excited to see me, but I hadn't really factored in this idea of great. how do I talk with people?

[0:12] The negatives of it are my impulse control is very, bad. I didn't really realize that until later, but I have a, really bad impulse control. And that came to light from binge eating, to be honest with you.

[0:22] I need to find somebody and then I have to chase that person down. And it's not for any reason. I can't compete against myself.

Ian Anderson Gray

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