
If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind in life or that success has passed you by, you’re not alone. This feeling can be even more intense for those of us who were diagnosed with ADHD, autism, or another form of neurodivergence later in life. It’s easy to feel like you’ve wasted time or missed opportunities. But the truth is: it’s never too late.
In fact, some of the most amazing success stories are from people who didn’t find their spark until later in life. Whether it’s because of a late diagnosis, a career change, or simply taking time to figure out what truly matters, many people thrive when they embrace new chapters in life.
Why a Late Diagnosis Can Be Liberating
Sue Perkins, a well-known British comedian, writer, and TV presenter, diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood. Perkins spoke openly about how ADHD shaped her creative process, saying it gave her the ability to think quickly and move through multiple ideas at once. Since her diagnosis, she’s used her insight to work more effectively and creatively, proving that understanding your brain can unlock new potential, even later in life.
Ryan Gosling, one of the most recognised actors today, was diagnosed with ADHD as a child but didn’t fully understand how it shaped him until later in life. Gosling struggled in school and was home-schooled as a result. Now, he credits his ADHD for giving him the ability to dive deep into his roles, hyper-focusing on his craft and creating memorable performances.
Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, was diagnosed with ADHD as a teenager. For years, she dealt with challenges in focus and organisation, but instead of letting ADHD hold her back, Biles embraced it and used her diagnosis as part of her mental training, helping her to achieve unparalleled success in the sport.
Career Change After 40? Absolutely.
For many, a late diagnosis can also be the catalyst for a career change. You may have spent years in jobs that didn’t align with your true passions or strengths. Maybe you’ve struggled with focus or organisation, feeling like you’re constantly falling short. But once you understand how your brain works, you can start designing a career that works for you.
Late Bloomers: Why They Succeed

Late bloomers, especially those with neurodivergence, often thrive because they’ve learned resilience through years of overcoming obstacles. The beauty of being diagnosed later or changing careers after 40 is that you’ve already developed a deep understanding of yourself, what works for you and what doesn’t. You bring life experience, empathy, and creativity to the table, and those are invaluable assets.
Actionable Tips for Success After a Late ADHD Diagnosis or Career Change
1. Seek professional support and guidance: After receiving an ADHD diagnosis, it’s essential to recognise that you're not meant to navigate this journey alone. Working with professionals—whether an ADHD coach, therapist, or psychiatrist, can provide you with personalised strategies that cater to how your brain functions.. Support also includes exploring medication options, which, combined with coaching, can lead to transformative outcomes.
2. Reframe your narrative: If you’ve been diagnosed late, it’s easy to feel like you’ve “lost time.” But that’s not true. Your journey has shaped who you are, and it’s never too late to start something new. Focus on the skills and strengths you’ve developed along the way, rather than what you think you’ve missed. A mindset shift that acknowledges your neurodivergence as an asset can be liberating. Remember, the strategies you now have can help you thrive.
3. Leverage your strengths: One of the advantages of receiving an ADHD diagnosis is the clarity it provides in understanding what your strengths are. ADHD minds are often creative, full of ideas, and able to hyperfocus on tasks they’re passionate about. Use your strengths to your advantage. Identify tasks or roles where your ability to think outside the box, problem-solve, or dive deep into projects is a benefit. Finding ways to channel these strengths will help you excel in your work or new career path.
4. Find community support: Building a network of like-minded individuals who understand your experience with ADHD is crucial. Surround yourself with people who not only empathise but also motivate you to keep moving forward. This could be through online support groups, in-person ADHD meetups, or working with others in ADHD-focused communities. Being part of a community helps you stay accountable and connected, and you’ll gain valuable insights from others on a similar path.
5. Take small, consistent steps toward your goals: ADHD often leads to a tendency for overwhelming bursts of motivation followed by burnout. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate each win. Consistency is key. Whether you're changing careers or starting a new project, small, steady progress is more sustainable than trying to overhaul everything at once. Keep track of your wins and acknowledge the progress—even if it feels slow. This approach will build momentum and confidence over time.
6. It’s never too late to start again: No matter how old you are or how many setbacks you’ve faced, there’s always time to start something new. People like Sue Perkins, Ryan Gosling, and Simone Biles have shown that with the right support and understanding of your unique mind, success can happen at any stage in life. I see it every day with my clients, and I’ve lived it myself.
Conclusion:
Discovering your spark later in life especially after a late diagnosis or career shift is not only possible but can be deeply rewarding. While the journey may involve unique challenges, it also brings invaluable insights and strengths that enrich both personal and professional pursuits. Embracing your path, with all its detours and discoveries, can lead to success and fulfilment beyond what might have seemed possible earlier on. Remember, it’s never too late to start anew, and each step forward is a testament to your resilience and growth. Whether you’re drawing inspiration from the lives of others or forging your own path, know that your journey is both worthwhile and inspiring.
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