Confessions of an ADHD-fueled technologi…. 🐿️!
A presentation at Connect.Tech in in Atlanta, GA, USA by Jeremy Meiss
Confessions of an ADHDfueled technologi…. ! 🐿️
Jeremy Meiss DevRel & Community professional Open to work
Image: PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay
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Image: Brilliant & Company, Medium post
Image: @80sSportsNStuff on Twitter
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© 1977 Radio Shack
Hobby Computer Handbook, Fall/Winter 1979 and 1980 editions
Image: Goldberg, Adele (December 1983). Smalltalk-80: The Language and its Implementation. Addison-Wesley. ISBN 978-0-201-11371-6.
Lotus 1/2/3 for the IBM PC, Plume, 1984
Kaypro II 2.5 MHz Zilog Z80 CPU 64KB RAM 2 single-sided 180KB 5¼-inch floppies 80-column, green monochrome 9” CRT Image: Kaypro II, Wikipedia Commons
Compaq Portable Plus 4.7 MHz 8088 CPU 128KB RAM 1 double-sided 360KB 5¼-inch floppy 10MB MFM hard drive 9” green monochrome CRT DOS 2.0 Keyboard attaches to the top Weight: 28 pounds Image: Computing History Org, UK
Image: © Computerworld Dec 1983
Image: Higher Rock Education
IBM PC XT Image: IBM PC XT, Wikimedia 4.7 MHz Intel 8088 CPU 128KB-640KB RAM 1 double-sided 360KB 5¼-inch floppy 10-20MB MFM/RLL hard drive MDA / CGA graphics DOS 2.0-3.20, various others External peripheral connectivity PC speaker, 1-channel sound Weight: 32 pounds
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Image: iStockPhoto
Image: Advenium
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Image: Springfield/South County Youth
Image: iStockPhoto
Image: Wikipedia
Image: Jeremy & Wife’s tent, Cold Springs Campground, Colorado 2016
Image: Tara Winstead, Pexels
Image: Medscape.com
Lab test RBC Red blood count WBC White blood count MCV MCHC MCH Hgb Hct Iron sat Iron May 2021 Ref Range 4 (4.5-6.5) 3.7 (4-11) 71 27 19 7.7 28% 3% 17 (81-99) (30-36) (27-34) (13.5-18) (40-52%) (15-50%) (59-158)
Image: Crazy Dog T-Shirts Image: Jeremy at Alice-Toxaway Divide, Idaho, 2023.
Image: Jeremy and Wife, Mount Elbert, CO, 14,439 feet.
Image: Mount Rainier, Washington
Image: Jeremy’s hammock tent, Ozarks, May 2021
Image: Camping at Toxaway Lake, Idaho, July 2023.
Jeremy’s “-gists”
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist Neuropsychologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist Neuropsychologist Gastroenterologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist Neuropsychologist Gastroenterologist Hematologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist Neuropsychologist Gastroenterologist Hematologist Oncologist
Jeremy’s “-gists” Urologist Neurologist Neuropsychologist Gastroenterologist Hematologist Oncologist Geologist
Image: HealthTimes
Lab test RBC Red blood count WBC White blood count MCV MCHC MCH Hgb Hct Iron sat Iron May 2021 Ref Range Apr 2023 4 (4.5-6.5) 5.29 3.7 (4-11) 5.74 71 27 19 7.7 28% 3% 17 (81-99) (30-36) (27-34) (13.5-18) (40-52%) (15-50%) (59-158) 89 33.3 29.7 15.7 47.1% 28% 120
ADHD a mental condition, beginning in childhood and often persisting into later life, that is characterized by persistent difficulty in maintaining attention and concentration, and is frequently accompanied by hyperactive and impulsive behavior. -CDC
Image: Tara Winstead, Pexels
3 Subtypes of ADHD 1. Inattentive 2. Hyperactive/Impulsive 3. Mixed Source: Psychiatry.org
Cis Women often underdiagnosed Symptom types: easier to notice hyperactivity and impulsiveness Bias: since more common in Cis males, not often looked at for Cis women Less available research: with ≠ sample sizes, AFAB rarely included Inattention symptoms occur later: seen in structured environments, i.e. college Source: CHADD.org, Healthline.com Included courtesy of Floor Drees, @DevOpsBarbie
Cis Women less likely to outgrow 60% vs 30% have ADHD continuing into adulthood People who “outgrow” usually still have symptoms Source: NIH.gov, PsychCentral.com Included courtesy of Floor Drees, @DevOpsBarbie
Cis Males/Females different comorbidity patterns comorbidity is when another condition occurs alongside another Cis Males: Externalizing substance misuse conduct disorders antisocial personality disorders Cis Females: Internalizing anxiety depression somatic symptom disorders eating disorders Source: Medical News Today Included courtesy of Floor Drees, @DevOpsBarbie
Anxiety & Mood disorders often misdiagnosis for Cis Women As a result, Cis women with ADHD often are distracted from own self-care Postpone checkups and procedures Function with serious sleep deficits Inconsistent eating patterns can result in complications Chronically stressed, may turn to Rx to manage other symptoms of: anxiety mood disorders sleep pain OR, may self-medicate with alcohol or drugs Source: WebMD, NIH.gov, ADDitudemag.com
Image: ThoughtCo
Image: Maria Orlova, Pexels
Embracing my ADHD 1. Explained some of my shortcomings, but not an excuse
Embracing my ADHD 1. Explained some of my shortcomings, but not an excuse 2. Understanding how my brain works
Embracing my ADHD 1. Explained some of my shortcomings, but not an excuse 2. Understanding how my brain works 3. Accept the scattered thinking, and seek creative and problem-solving
Embracing my ADHD 1. Explained some of my shortcomings, but not an excuse 2. Understanding how my brain works 3. Accept the scattered thinking, and seek creative and problem-solving 4. Step into inherent “context-switching” that tech & DevRel requires
Mindfulness is a type of meditation in which you focus on being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery, and other practices to relax the body and mind and help reduce stress. -The Mayo Clinic
I say all this because…
I say all this because… 1. Cut yourself some slack.
I say all this because… 1. Cut yourself some slack. 2. Be open and tell your story.
I say all this because… 1. Cut yourself some slack. 2. Be open and tell your story. 3. ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back.
I say all this because… 1. Cut yourself some slack. 2. Be open and tell your story. 3. ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back. 4. Talk to someone. Get help.
I say all this because… 1. Cut yourself some slack. 2. Be open and tell your story. 3. ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back. 4. Talk to someone. Get help. 5. There are resources available.
ADHD Resources r/ADHD_Programmers American Professional Society of ADHD & Related Disorders Attention Deficit Disorder Association ADDA: ADHD Workplace Accomodations Guide Children and Adults with ADHD National Institute of Mental Health: ADHD Information Benefits.gov: ADHD Resources Wired Magazine: How Technology Can Help You Cope With ADHD WebMD: Adult ADHD Symptoms, Causes, Treatments WebMD: Living Well with Adult ADHD Cleveland Clinic: ADHD in Women ADDitude Magazine: Gender differences in ADHD StackOverflow Podcast: The many strengths of neurodivergence StackOverflow Blog: Developer with ADHD? You’re not alone
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. 2:58 PM · Oct 9, 2023 64 Reply Copy link Read 25 replies
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. Floor #devopsdays @DevOpsBarbie · Follow Getting diagnosed later in life means you already found your coping mechanisms. Lists!! And I knit during long meetings where my active participation isn’t needed or else I’m just gone. 1:25 AM · Oct 10, 2023 3 Reply Copy link Read 1 reply
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. Kayla HalloSween @_KaylaSween · Follow
- THERAPY. Medication helps but therapy has done way more for me. 2. Don’t feel like you need to stick to one particular planner. Be fluid with that kind of stuff. Do whatever works for you at that time 3. Superhuman because emails are the first thing I forget about otherwise. 9:37 AM · Oct 10, 2023 1 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. tim @elchefe · Follow pomodoro timers 3:46 PM · Oct 9, 2023 4 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Pomodoro technique ..a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It uses a kitchen timer to break work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. -Wikipedia
Scott McAllister · Oct 9, 2023 @stmcallister · Follow Replying to @IAmJerdog Like others, lists are essential to my productivity. And focusing on one task at a time is usually a recipe for success. However, sometimes I have to embrace my ADHD and have multiple tasks that I bounce between. It keeps me interested and productive. Hannele @blagh · Follow I have a thing I call “following my nose” deal with what’s in front of me until it takes me elsewhere, rinse and repeat. Some folks call it “puttering” Just try not to start something in that mode — do the things that you just need to finish already. 10:59 AM · Oct 10, 2023 2 Reply Copy link Read 1 reply
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. shon. @inkedtater · Follow I have to use Pen and Paper. But I also use the pen as a fidget item. I also keep my phone in DND mode so I am not tempted to look through it. I also keep a shit ton of sticky notes on my monitor to remind me of simple things - like when I need to slow down, or focus 3:28 PM · Oct 9, 2023 4 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Rich Burroughs · Oct 12, 2023 @richburroughs · Follow Replying to @IAmJerdog Having a coach has been great for me. I know not everyone is in a position to do it, but she helps with motivation, accountability, and also gives me different perspectives. Rich Burroughs @richburroughs · Follow The biggest thing I’ve learned about ADHD itself is how much it’s tied to interest/novelty. So I try to put myself in situations where I’m doing things I’m excited about. I know I have a lot more chance of succeeding when that’s the case. 1:20 PM · Oct 12, 2023 1 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Hannele · Oct 10, 2023 @blagh · Follow Replying to @IAmJerdog Embrace temporary habits, and don’t try to build streaks. I find streakbuilding particularly demoralizing — that one missed day kills everything. Like: a new workout video game will work for a while. Stick with it while you can! But let it go when you’ve just…stopped. Hannele @blagh · Follow Similarly: embrace temporary lists. Make a list for tomorrow, just to write down your reminders somewhere, but let it be OK if you lose it or don’t finish everything. 11:08 AM · Oct 10, 2023 1 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Cassandra · Oct 10, 2023 @cassandrafaris · Follow Replying to @cassandrafaris and @IAmJerdog I use a Lilly Pulitzer planner (obvs) and decorate it with stickers and colorful, erasable pens first thing Monday morning. That makes planning fun for me. I use a version of bullet journaling to track progress. Cassandra @cassandrafaris · Follow Also, timeblocks! I block 2-3 hour windows of Focus Time on my calendar and guard it closely because it’s the only way I can get creative or learning tasks done. During focus time, I mostly follow where my brain wants to go, as long as the work is something on my to-do list. 9:28 AM · Oct 10, 2023 1 Reply Copy link Read 1 reply
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. xirclebox @xirclebox · Follow I’ve had to work to reduce distractions by removing things from around me that I know have the potential to yank my attention away when I need to focus. Lists help me break through my task paralysis that leads directly to procrastination. 3:15 PM · Oct 9, 2023 3 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. John Kjell @realjohnkjell · Follow Oft quoted phrase I took a while to come to terms with: “Pills don’t teach skills” 3:04 PM · Oct 9, 2023 2 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. Erin Mikail Staples @erinmikail · Follow
- occupational therapy - medication - paper and digital planner - alarms! For! Everything! - calendar invites for everything 3:51 PM · Oct 9, 2023 3 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Jeremy’s #OpenToWork · Oct 9, 2023 @IAmJerdog · Follow I’m giving a talk soon about my journey to being (finally) diagnosed with ADHD (back in early 2022) to now, and the things I have learned along the way. I would love to include some of the tricks/tips you all have (knowing it’s subjective), as well as resources to share. Hussein Farran @hmfarran · Follow It’s okay to embrace the ‘ADHD sprint’ in a subject and it’s okay to not find that topic super interesting afterwards. That time was well spent and you did not waste it even if you never got back into RC cars or whatever. 3:20 PM · Oct 9, 2023 1 Reply Copy link Read more on X
Quick Review 1. Cut yourself some slack. 2. Be open and tell your story. 3. ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back. 4. Talk to someone. Get help. 5. There are resources available.
ADHD Resources r/ADHD_Programmers American Professional Society of ADHD & Related Disorders Attention Deficit Disorder Association ADDA: ADHD Workplace Accomodations Guide Children and Adults with ADHD National Institute of Mental Health: ADHD Information Benefits.gov: ADHD Resources Wired Magazine: How Technology Can Help You Cope With ADHD WebMD: Adult ADHD Symptoms, Causes, Treatments WebMD: Living Well with Adult ADHD StackOverflow Podcast: The many strengths of neurodivergence StackOverflow Blog: Developer with ADHD? You’re not alone
Special Thanks Stories shared on Twitter Floor Kayla Sween tim Shon Rich Burroughs Hannele Halcyon John Kjell Erin Mikail Staples Hussein Farran Provided content & feedback Floor Erin Mikail Staples
/in/jeremymeiss Thank You. @IAmJerdog @jerdog @jerdog@hachyderm.io
Come along on this ADHD-fueled journey as Jeremy tells some of his journey in tech, all while trying to stay on topic. He’ll dive into some of his early days “hunting squirrels” while also keeping the local librarians employed. He’ll also touch on his experiences through the early days of the internet (not ARPANET, but the “world wide web”) and how he learned to “cope” with this thing called ADHD, without really coping with it, until he had to. You’ll hopefully laugh, probably cry, and that will just be from having to listen to him try to stay on topic, while also hopefully gaining a better feeling of how it’s ok to ask for help, and to also occasionally experiment with new ideas and being open about your journey through life.
Video
Resources
The following resources were mentioned during the presentation or are useful additional information.
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American Professional Society of ADHD & Related Disorders
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Wired Magazine: How Technology Can Help You Cope With ADHD
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WebMD: Adult ADHD Symptoms, Causes, Treatments
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WebMD: Living well with Adult ADHD
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StackOverflow Blog: Developer with ADHD? You’re not alone
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StackOverflow Podcast: The many strengths of neurodivergence
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r/ADHD_Programmers
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Attention Deficit Disorder Association
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ADHD Workplace Accommodations Guide
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Children and Adults with ADHD
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National Institute of Mental Health: ADHD Information
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Benefits.gov: ADHD resources
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