264 Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts

Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts

 

In this heartfelt episode, Patricia (she/her) shares three powerful personal stories that highlight the challenges—and wins—that come with being a sensitive, creative, neurodivergent human. From navigating family dynamics around living arrangements, to reclaiming power after a disempowering volunteer experience, and even exploring the emotional depth behind a simple craving for an apple fritter, Patricia offers an intimate and validating glimpse into what it's like to be an AuDHDer who feels things deeply—and still chooses to show up.

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

·      You don’t need to justify your needs. “They don’t have to understand why I need two months. I just do.”

·      High masking + high empathy often = emotional invisibility. You're not alone if you feel overlooked or undervalued.

·      Internalizers often seem fine while falling apart inside—naming your pain out loud is a radical act of self-love.

·      Disempowerment doesn’t mean you're weak. It often comes from past trauma, sensory overload, or lack of support.

·      Communication isn't always immediate. It’s okay if clarity or assertiveness comes a day (or three) later.

·      There's no such thing as “too sensitive”—just systems that weren't built for your needs.

 

HIGHLIGHTS