Ep 4: Transcending the Limiting Nature of Labels: An Empowering Discussion on ADHD and Autism with Neveah Lecours

Feb 26

The Liberated Self Podcast

Today we dive deep into a conversation around ADHD, autism, and the power and potential limitation of labels. Special guest Neveah Lecours, an online mentor and coach for highly-sensitive and neurodivergent individuals, shares her personal journey of diagnosis, self-discovery, and transformation. This episode explores the potential empowerment that can spring from understanding one’s neurodiversity, as well as the risks of being confined by labels. We discuss a shared vision of a future society where labels no longer limit human beings and every individual’s unique gifts are celebrated. It's an exploration of liberation in a totally different context, so tune in for a thought-provoking and deeply contemplative discussion.

In this episode you'll hear:

Introduction and Personal Journey with Meditation
Discovering Effortless Meditation
Meditation Teacher Training
The Impact of Effortless Meditation on Insomnia
Understanding Different Types of Meditation
The Origin and Evolution of Effortless Meditation
The Practice and Benefits of Effortless Meditation
Conclusion and Invitation to Learn Effortless Meditation

Labels: Freedom or Boundaries?

Our chat begins with Neveah sharing brief reflections on her journey. Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 32, her diagnosis became the key to her self-understanding. She faced an overwhelming work life and battled anxiety, all while trying to fit herself into societal norms. Her diagnosis marked an enlightening turning point of realization and acceptance.

Despite the initial flattering sense of freedom from self-doubt post-diagnosis, Nevaeh mentions feeling trapped within these labels. She emphasizes the critical balance in using these labels – they welcome us to a community where we feel recognized, yet they limit our explorations of individuality.

Contemplations on Healing and Liberation

On further reflection, Neveah brings attention to the different energies different words carry. The choice of words we use to describe ourselves creates ripples that impact our self-perception, and then our societal image. And while labels can bring clarity and identity, they don't always allow space for our expansion.

The Real Nature of Autism and ADHD: A Gift, not a Deficit

Nevaeh takes us a step deeper into her understanding of the labels of Autism and ADHD. The term 'Attention Defecit Hyperactivity Disorder' appears inherently negative, associating those identified with phrases like "being deficient" and "disorder". She proposes an acceptance of diversity without the need for categorizations. Nevaeh shares experiences of how being neurodivergent, specifically having ADHD, impacts her functioning in daily life. Rather than perceiving it as a disorder, she focuses the conversation on the giftedness of thinking creatively and outside-the-box. There's an evident wish to abandon labels – to disentangle the true essence of being neurodivergent from society-imposed norms.

Vision for the Future: Liberation in its Truest Form

Nevaeh closes the discussion with her view of a future that needs no labels – a world of acceptance rather than correction. A new paradigm that places value on sensitivity, authenticity, and creative thinking that comes naturally with being neurodivergent. Fewer labels and more understanding allow us to express and, finally, liberate ourselves.

The conversation with Neveah Lecours shines a new light on the dialogue about ADHD and Autism. Accepting individual eccentricities and moving away from the labels can invite more explorations into individuality, leading to a liberating journey of unlearning. This dialogue reminds us that there is more to our identity than the labels we put on ourselves. Through this ongoing journey of self-awareness and understanding, we can tap into our innate authenticity – our liberated selves.