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.
I turned 48 this year.
For years, I wrote birthday blog posts — little reflections on what I’d learned so far. But somewhere along the way, life got busy (and heavy), and I stopped. The last few years brought a lot of change — both beautiful and challenging — and I think I lost touch with that quieter reflective part of myself for a while.
This year, though, I felt the pull to write again.
Finding Myself Again
I’ll be honest — this year I’ve wrestled with ageing.
After years of stress (a good decade’s worth!), I’ve started to notice the changes in the mirror — lines around my eyes, muscle loss, and the weight of it all showing up in my face.
But those same lines tell another story: one of laughter, connection, and joy.
They’re proof of a life lived — not wasted.
I like the woman looking back at me now.
I wish younger me had the confidence, understanding, and self-worth I carry today. But I also look at her with kindness and give her a hug across time.
Rebuilding Strength — Body and Mind
Over the past year, I’ve taken up reformer Pilates and strength training.
My clothes fit differently now, but my body feels stronger and more capable. It’s both uncomfortable and empowering — a reminder that strength can always be rebuilt, even after it feels lost.
My work has grown, too.
Both sides of my business — ADHD and AuDHD coaching, and marketing — have flourished. I’m working with people and organisations that truly align with my values, and that feels deeply rewarding.
Living More Authentically
Unmasking as an AuDHD woman has been a huge part of my journey.
It’s come with grief — for the girl I hid away and for the exhaustion that came with masking. However, there has also been joy and relief in dropping the mask, in safe spaces, and learning to live more authentically.
I’m still learning what that looks like.
Some days it’s messy. Other days, it’s pure freedom.
Choosing Joy (and Presence)
Despite the challenges, I’m still choosing joy — in small, daily ways.
Walks with my Doberman, Freya. Laughter with my hubby. Conversations with clients, who remind me why I do what I do. The quiet strength that comes from knowing I’m surrounded by good people.
At 48, here’s what I know for sure:
✨ Strength can be rebuilt, even after burnout.
✨ Joy is found in the little things if you look for it.
✨ Authenticity is worth the discomfort it takes to get there.
✨ Support makes everything easier — you don’t have to do it all alone.
I don’t know what the next decade holds, but I’m entering it stronger, wiser, and more myself than ever.
Here’s to living, laughing, and thriving — one season at a time.
Are you on your own journey of rediscovery?
If you’re on your own journey of rediscovery — learning to rebuild, unmask, or simply find your rhythm again — you don’t have to do it alone.
Through ADHD and AuDHD coaching and mentoring, I support late-diagnosed and neurodivergent individuals to find clarity, confidence, and calm while building a life that works for their unique brain.
