As a female entrepreneur, you’re used to feeling like you have to do everything yourself. But when you have ADHD, it can be even harder to keep things together. That’s why it’s important to know what triggers your RSD (rejection-sensitive dysphoria).
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is an intense emotional reaction that occurs when someone with ADHD experiences rejection or criticism—which can range from feeling slighted by family members to hearing crickets when you post online.
People with RSD may experience feelings of profound sadness, anger, anxiety, and humiliation in response to these situations. These feelings are often far more intense than the situation warrants because they are directly linked to the person’s emotions rather than the actual event.
People with RSD often display behaviors like people-pleasing and overachieving, fear of judgment or embarrassment, along with an inability to effectively regulate intense emotions once they appear. These symptoms can have a lasting impact on both relationships, academic performance, and the success of your business if not properly addressed.
Many people with RSD feel isolated, as if they are the only one dealing with this difficult emotion. It is important to always remember that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Here are some things that can trigger RSD in entrepreneurs with ADHD:
1. No responses
2. The dreaded ‘no’ response
3. Constantly changing goals
4. No responses
5. Lack of focus
6. Distractions
7. Too many ideas
8. Perfectionism
9. Procrastination
10. Comparison
If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry! You’re not alone in feeling this way. So what can you do about it?
Here are three things you can do about your RSD:
Rejection sensitivity dysphoria can be difficult to manage and awareness is the key to your success in managing it. Knowing more about what causes it and how it affects you is essential for making any real changes.
There are three great ways to help confront RSD:
- focusing on your intrinsic worth and not letting others define you
- staying in your lane and not worrying about others’ opinions
- and frequently reflect on how far you’ve come and all you’ve achieved
With awareness, these suggestions can empower you with the resources needed to take control of rejection sensitivity dysphoria.
Remind yourself that living with rejection sensitivity dysphoria doesn’t decrease your self-worth in any way – it can actually encourage you to stay in your lane and strive for personal growth.
From there, you can explore options like therapy, supplements, mindfulness activities, and/or joining a supportive community to help keep your triggers at bay. No matter what activity you choose to pursue, remember that you’re not alone on this journey and commit to caring for yourself each step of the way.
If you are looking for support as an ADHD Entrepreneur checkout our Facebook Group Make ADHD your Bitch.