About Juliet

I’m Juliet O’Rourke, the founder of Gifted with ADHD. I chose this name because our neurodiverse brains think on many levels and can offer many gifts.

We are diverse, analytical and creative thinkers, problem solvers and empaths. We are curious and have a natural love of learning, questioning the world around us in terms of fairness and justice. We are the go getters and thought leaders who challenge and instigate change.

I believe we shouldn’t be labelled or limited by society’s perceptions of ADHD. Instead, I encourage you to see your ADHD as a strength. It’s through self-acceptance, self-compassion and gratitude that we can thrive and not just survive in this neurotypical biased world. I coach people to accept their authentic, unique selves and to learn how to embrace their ADHD gift.

My vision

“To share my gift because I believe everyone with ADHD is gifted.”

My mission

“To build a world that adjusts and accounts for neurodiversity and doesn’t pretend we are all neurotypical.”

Gifted with ADHD – Coaching Adults with ADHD

My Story – Juliet O’Rourke, ADHD Coach

After a lifetime of believing I was intrinsically flawed, I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 50. I never knew there was a biological explanation for my struggles. My challenges with executive function skills, together with the perimenopause and escalating levels of anxiety and overwhelm, had become completely debilitating. Despite my natural optimism, I was starting to lose hope in myself and my abilities.

Following my diagnosis, I embarked on an intense journey of discovery about ADHD. I learned about myself by looking through a new lens (thank you, hyperfocus!). Having undertaken two years of counselling training, I quickly realised I wanted to redirect my career into the world of ADHD coaching. I wanted to reach out to others, especially women, going through similar experiences. I’m passionate about helping all adults with ADHD challenges.

Once I realised that my neurodivergent way of thinking was just different and not broken, I stopped trying to fix myself. I learned what my ADHD brain needed to be able to thrive (instead of survive, as it had been doing for decades!). I was able to come from a new place of self-compassion and optimism, instead of the shame, guilt, frustration and anxiety I’d been carrying around like a dead weight.

My life began to transform in every single area. For the first time in my life, I had the power within me to achieve the potential I had always known was there. This had been hidden away for 50 years!

I learned and practised the 12 executive function skills that were the missing piece that my ADHD brain had needed all along. At the same time, I built my inner confidence and literally rewired my brain from my self-sabotaging behaviours and limiting beliefs. Now I know there is no limit to what I can achieve in my life, and the same applies to you too.

Having previously been a swimming teacher for 18 years, I had empowered thousands of people to excel and gain confidence in the water. I specialised in teaching adults with ‘aquaphobia’, helping them to conquer their extreme fear of the water. I would ease people out of their comfort zones so they could learn how to swim, after years of feeling powerless.

I feel that my passion for people, empathy and exceptional communication skills have naturally transferred into my coaching. I’m also a mum to three incredible children. In my free time, I enjoy mindfulness and meditation, walking in nature and being near the ocean.

Juliet O’Rourke, ADHD Coach

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