Curating Purpose with ADHD
Adrian Phang is a professional career coach and programme designer who helps individuals, teams, and communities navigate disruption, and thrive. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, he reframed his struggles into strengths, bringing creativity and empathy into social entrepreneurship and human development. Today, Adrian works with unemployed individuals and mission communities to unlearn outdated practices, discover their value, and co-create meaningful change for the good of humanity.
Quotes
“Once I realised that I have to live with ADHD, I decided that I cannot let the condition consume me.”
“The world needs to understand that regardless of the way we are wired, we do have a role and purpose to play in society.”
Early Signs and Diagnosis
In the past, I struggled to stay employed at the same organisation for more than three years. I often felt overwhelmed, unable to organise my thoughts, and haphazard in my work.
I got my diagnosis only a few years ago. My wife noticed that my behaviours resembled those of a neurodivergent student she was teaching. It was a reality check, but also a relief. The diagnosis helped explain why I behaved the way I did, and gave me a way forward. It allowed me to adjust my emotions and behaviours more intentionally.
Challenges and Turning Points
Once I realised that I had to live with ADHD, I decided I could not let it consume me. Rather, I began to see it from the perspective that it could also bring good to others.
I know I think differently from most people. With the right focus and interest, I can deliver work that plays to my strengths. I am especially strong in programme design, where I can connect the dots and solve complex problems. But I’ve also had to learn to be mindful of how I show up when I interact with others.
Strategies for Managing ADHD
As a professional career coach, I’ve learned to recognise behaviours and emotions that may spiral out of control if I don’t identify them as ADHD moments. Regulation is key.
I remind myself to pause, step back, and manage the situation before it escalates. I also remain receptive to feedback, because it gives me a mirror to catch what I might miss. While I still lapse from time to time, it happens much less often these days, and I recover more quickly.
Strengths and Achievements
One of my greatest passions is curating programmes that impact lives. Last year, I began working with mission communities passionate about creating social enterprises in their villages. I facilitated programmes that helped their representatives develop and launch impactful initiatives.
Watching the learners grow in confidence was deeply rewarding. Some began breeding rabbits and goats, selling them to support their families. The proceeds went to feeding and educating young people in their communities. Just as importantly, I saw how these initiatives sparked lasting confidence and positive change in their lives.
These experiences reminded me of why I love this work: it transforms not only individuals, but entire communities.
Advice to My Younger Self
Life is about finding your true purpose and continuing to learn and grow to bring impact to others. Don’t be impatient — learn to listen to yourself and the people around you.
We’re not perfect, but we carry the image and likeness of our Creator. The talents God has placed in us are meant to make a difference in people’s lives. Use them well.
Changing How the World Sees ADHD
No matter how we’re wired, each of us carries a unique role and purpose, and the world needs to see that. If we recognise and manifest the goodness we bring, we can make the world a better place.
Human interaction and empathy are critical. Guided by conscience, we strive to do good for humanity — and ADHD should never stand in the way of that purpose.
Where I Am Today
Today, I design and facilitate programmes that help individuals, teams, businesses, and ecosystems adapt in a disruptive world. I guide learners to unlearn outdated practices and co-create new experiences for the good of humanity.
As a career coach, I also support those impacted by unemployment to discover their strengths, rebuild confidence, and find new directions. Helping people reclaim their value and dignity is the most fulfilling part of my journey.
Support the ADHD Community
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Special thanks to our sponsors whose generous support made this book possible:
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