Updates from Donae

People Pleasing, Masking & ADHD

People Pleasing, Masking & ADHD

Navigating the world with ADHD often involves developing a skill known as masking, where individuals suppress their true selves to fit in. This practice, however, can lead to burnout and disconnection. The blog post delves into the distinction between masking and problem-solving, using relatable examples like interrupting conversations and classroom stimming. Instead of silencing one's traits, it advocates for a collaborative approach, emphasizing creativity and empathy without self-censorship. Personal anecdotes illustrate the profound impact of masking, highlighting how it sometimes blocks authentic connections and opportunities. As the article encourages, understanding and embracing one's ADHD traits can lead to more genuine interactions and a better balance between self-expression and social harmony.
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 Emotional Regulation: Tools That Actually Work for ADHD

Emotional Regulation: Tools That Actually Work for ADHD

emotional regulation, mindfulness, nervous system regulation, thought work
Emotional regulation isn’t about “staying calm”. It’s about experiencing the full range of emotions while still staying in control when we face big feelings, which can be a challenge for many with ADHD. In this episode, I break down emotional regulation into a powerful, practical pyramid that offers skills at each "level" : body-based, skill-based, and thought-based tools. 
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How to Break Free from ADHD Decision Paralysis

How to Break Free from ADHD Decision Paralysis

decision making, overwhelm, prioritization
Ever spend way too long researching a “simple” decision—only to feel more confused than when you started? You’re not alone. In this episode I talk about why ADHD brains fall into the “over-research” trap and how to get out of it. Learn why perfectionism, attention regulation, and priority overload lead to analysis paralysis—and the tools you can use to start making “good enough” decisions with confidence!
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Why Transitions Are So Hard with ADHD (How to Make Them Easier)

Why Transitions Are So Hard with ADHD (How to Make Them Easier)

energy management, transitions
Why are transitions—like stopping Netflix to pay bills or switching from reading to bedtime—or even getting out of the car to get in the house once you've arrived home- so exhausting when you have ADHD? In this video, I break down why transitions are uniquely challenging for people with ADHD and what you can do to make them easier.
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Is There REALLY a Perfect Planner for ADHD?

Is There REALLY a Perfect Planner for ADHD?

decision making, habits, planners, prioritization, time management
If you’ve ever thought this planner is going to change my life... only to abandon it weeks later, you are not alone! Today, we’re diving into the REAL reason planners often don’t work for ADHD brains—and what to do instead. In this video, I walk you through: ✔️ The 3 essential parts of an ADHD-friendly time system✔️ Why your brain shouldn't be your to-do list✔️ How to use a dump list without drowning in it✔️ The importance of retrieval (not just collection)✔️ What to do with “boomerang tasks” that come back later✔️ And why it’s 100% okay to switch up your planner (really!)
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ADHD AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING: ARE YOU DRIVING A MANUAL TRANSMISSION BRAIN?

ADHD AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING: ARE YOU DRIVING A MANUAL TRANSMISSION BRAIN?

executive functioning skills, time management
Managing everyday tasks with ADHD can take so much more effort than we think it should! Living with ADHD is like driving a manual transmission vs. an automatic. This isn't about which brain "version" is better or worse—it's about understanding that you may need to learn how to consciously "shift gears" when others do it automatically. This DOES take more effort in the beginning, but once you master your own system, it becomes second nature! Learn how to stop judging yourself and find the strategies that work for YOUR brain!
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How to Manage Your TOO MANY Things To Do List! | ADHD Dump List Weekly Planner Strategy

How to Manage Your TOO MANY Things To Do List! | ADHD Dump List Weekly Planner Strategy

decision making, overwhelm, planners, time management
Struggling to keep track of all the things?  This simple, ADHD-friendly system helps you organize your mental clutter, break down overwhelming tasks, and plan your week without burnout. Learn how to use a "dump list" to declutter your mind, why looking at everything every day is hurting your productivity, how to break multi-step tasks (like taxes and returns!) into doable pieces, when (and why) to ignore your to-do list and more!
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Meet Donae

As an occupational therapist, professionally trained coach, and a fellow ADHD brain I understand how ADHD can impact all of life; relationships, careers, finances, self care, and even self trust.

I've seen how the shame of past failures (and the fear of experiencing more) can shut us down and make it hard to know what to do next.  

If the techniques that work for typical brains haven't worked for you, it's time to try something new. Designing a life with more ease, self trust, and peace is possible. I can help you learn to work with your brain so you can make the changes that matter to you!


Photo of Donae Cannon