It’s Not Just Fidgeting: What ADHD Really Looks Like

For a long time, ADHD was boxed up and labelled as a problem for “naughty little boys who can’t sit still.”
We now know it’s so much more than that — and it’s still being massively misunderstood.

In my work, in my training, and in my own family, I’ve seen how ADHD shows up in ways that have nothing to do with fidgeting. I’ve seen bright, capable people left feeling broken, lazy, or just “too much,” all because their struggles didn’t fit the old-school ADHD mould.

Spoiler: ADHD isn’t just about bouncing off the walls. Sometimes it looks like:

• Constant overwhelm from simple tasks

• Paralysis when it’s time to start anything

• Emotional rollercoasters over things others brush off

• Losing track of time, again and again

• Exhausting perfectionism followed by total shutdown

And here’s the kicker: many adults go undiagnosed for decades. Especially women. Especially the ones who masked, who people-pleased, who tried their absolute best to hold everything together and didn’t cause a fuss.

The impact?
Years — literal years — of thinking they’re lazy, or selfish, or just not trying hard enough.
Years of shame, burnout, low confidence, and second-guessing every decision.
All while their brain is just wired differently.

The diagnosis, when it comes, can be life-changing. But here’s the truth no one tells you:
A diagnosis doesn’t magically give you the tools to cope. Most people get a label and or medication… and then get left to figure it all out on their own.

That’s why I offer ADHD coaching — because the support gap is huge. People need help not just understanding ADHD, but actually living with it in a way that feels manageable and kind and human. No shame, no judgement. Just practical support and honest conversations.

I’m also running a coaching group for adults navigating ADHD — diagnosed or not. If any of this resonated, if you’ve ever thought “Is it just me?” — you’re not alone. And you’re very welcome to join us.

Drop me a message or email if you'd like a heads-up when the next group launches.

You’re not broken. You’re not lazy.
You’re just wired differently — and that’s not a flaw. It’s a clue.