Embracing Quirkiness and Creativity
Grace Lim is a fashion stylist, influencer, and mother. Diagnosed with ADHD in 2021 at the age of 29, she finally found the explanation for years of restlessness, forgetfulness, and self-doubt. Her diagnosis brought both relief and growth, helping her embrace her quirky and creative side while improving her work and relationships. Today, she takes pride in her freelance career and finds joy in being the best mother she can be.
Quotes
“Learning that my so-called laziness had a legitimate explanation was like receiving a gift. Connecting with fellow ADHDers helped me feel less lonely, knowing my struggles were not isolated.”
“We might be different, but we are no less capable. ADHD gives us quirks, humour, and creativity that enrich the world. My biggest takeaway is gratitude — for the wiring that lets me do what I love and for the uniqueness that makes me who I am.”
Early Awareness and Diagnosis
I was diagnosed with ADHD in November 2021. Before then, friends had pointed out that I might have ADHD, but I always brushed it aside. I thought ADHD meant being hyperactive, usually in boys, while my restlessness was in my mind, not physical.
In my late twenties, I began noticing how I struggled compared to co-workers. Planning a schedule, sticking to timelines, and keeping on top of tasks felt almost impossible. I’d daze out in conversations or fidget constantly. Growing up, I couldn’t remember many experiences, and often relied on friends to remind me of past events.
The turning point came in 2020 during a breakup, moving houses, and setting up an office all at the same time. I was paralysed, and could hardly wake up for work, even as I saw how disciplined my colleagues were. That was when I realised something deeper was going on.
When I first told my dad about the diagnosis, his reaction was dismissive. He brushed it off, saying I shouldn’t rely on medication or trust everything the doctor said, and that I just needed a stronger mind. That dinner ended in tears.
But things changed. My parents started researching ADHD, and after a few days on medication, even my dad admitted he saw improvements — that I was finally “functioning like a normal person.” It was bittersweet but also validating.
Strategies and Coping
Before my diagnosis, I had already been receiving therapy for anxiety and depression. It gave me closure on difficult past experiences, but I still felt drained and distracted. Medication helped me focus and gave me relief, proving I wasn’t lazy. That said, it came with side effects like emotional crashes when it wore off.
Now, especially as a mom, I manage ADHD without medication. Rest and coffee are my main tools. I think more clearly when well-rested, and on off-days I focus on tasks that require less mental energy. I also lean into the adrenaline of last-minute work, prepping bit by bit before deadlines to keep up my dopamine.
Growing up, I was often told I was overly sensitive. Painful memories replayed in my head and overwhelmed me. Only later did I learn about Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). Knowing that many ADHDers struggle with this was a huge relief. It meant I wasn’t odd — just wired differently.
Achievements and Growth
Since my diagnosis, I’ve grown massively. Learning that my so-called laziness had a legitimate explanation was like receiving a gift. Connecting with fellow ADHDers helped me feel less lonely, knowing my struggles were not isolated.
I’m proud of many things: building my own brand, freelancing for over ten years, becoming a homeowner, a wife, and most importantly, a mom. My hyperfocus and adaptability have made me the mother I want to be. I take pride in caring for my little one while continuing my creative work.
My ADHD diagnosis makes me embrace that quirky, straightforward side of me and this part of me is often what my friends and family love me for.
Advice to My Younger Self
You’ll be fine. You will find the people you belong with, and all will be good.
We might be different, but we are no less capable. ADHD gives us quirks, humour, and creativity that enrich the world. My biggest takeaway is gratitude — for the wiring that lets me do what I love and for the uniqueness that makes me who I am.
You don’t have to navigate ADHD alone.
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