Janine Defontaine

Reflections on Turning 48: Strength, Joy & Living More Authentically

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, ADHD Coaching, AuDHD, Autism, Health & Wellbeing, Reflections, Reflections from a Redhead

As an ADHD and AuDHD coach, I often talk about growth, self-acceptance, and learning to live life on your own terms. But sometimes, those lessons show up in unexpected ways — like in the quiet reflections that come with another birthday. This post is one of those moments — a pause to look back, recalibrate, and celebrate progress in all its messy, beautiful forms.

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Recharging, Rediscovery, and Returning: Lessons from a Week Among the Trees

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, Health & Wellbeing, Reflections

A week among the trees reminded me that rest isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Here’s what I learned about slowing down, journaling, and bringing a little peace back into everyday life.

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graphic of woman hugging herself with heart shape flowers growing off of her

The INCUP Framework: How INCUP Can Help Neurodivergent Brains Thrive

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, ADHD Coaching, AuDHD, Autism

As someone who lives with ADHD and Autism (AuDHD)—diagnosed at the ripe age of 45—I’ve spent a lot of time trying to understand what helps me thrive, why some things are so hard to do, and what sends me spiralling toward burnout. Over the years, I’ve come back again and again to a concept called

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A student taking notes during a video call for online learning at home.

Should You Hire a Virtual Assistant as a Neurodivergent Business Owner?

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD Coaching, Business

If you’re neurodivergent and juggling work, business, and/or life admin, you’ve probably asked yourself: Would hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) make things easier or just create more work? The answer? Well, it depends. While a VA can be a big help, it also depends on how the relationship is set up, your communication styles, what

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A smiling woman using a laptop indoors with vibrant decor, reflecting a modern lifestyle in Dubai.

My Unconventional Advice: You Don’t Have to Niche Down in Your Business

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, Business

In the world of entrepreneurship, the standard advice for starting or growing a business is to ‘niche down.’ But in my business, I’ve come to a rebellious conclusion: you don’t always have to. Embracing versatility and adaptability. While many experts advocate finding a specific niche, I’ve found value in embracing a broader approach. An approach

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Thriving as a Neurodivergent Business Owner: Tips for Success Without the Hustle

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, Business

Running your own business can be an exciting and fulfilling journey, but for neurodivergent individuals like me, it comes with unique challenges and opportunities. Through my personal experience as a business owner with ADHD and Sensory Processing Challenges, I’ve discovered that thriving in entrepreneurship doesn’t mean subscribing to hustle culture or burning yourself out to

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How to Thrive at Work as a Neurodivergent Individual

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, Autism, Latest Articles

Navigating the workplace as a neurodivergent individual can feel like a constant balancing act. Traditional work environments aren’t always set up to support diverse ways of thinking and working. So, how can neurodivergent people, such as those with ADHD, Autism or AuDHD, truly thrive at work? I recently hosted a workshop titled “Thriving at Work:

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Wedding Planning with ADHD: Tips and Reflections from My ABC Feature

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD

I recently had the chance to sit down with my friend Nick McAllister and the wonderful Hayley Harris to talk about wedding planning as someone with ADHD. This conversation was featured in an article by the ABC. We shared valuable insights and practical tips to help others with disabilities navigate the often overwhelming and complex

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Navigating Invalidation of ADHD and Neurodivergence in the Workplace: Practical Tips and Strategies

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, ADHD Coaching, AuDHD, Autism, Latest Articles

Learn how to confidently address and navigate conversations with colleagues who invalidate ADHD and neurodivergence. Discover practical tips for communication, setting boundaries, and finding support in the workplace.

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A Guide to Creating Your Own Self-Soothe Kit

By Janine Defontaine / ADHD, AuDHD, Autism, Creative, Health & Wellbeing

Whether you’re juggling lots of balls, feeling overwhelmed, or stressed, creating a self-soothe kit of your own can support you in navigating day-to-day life with ADHD.

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