From a Restless Mind to a Multifaceted Life: The Journey of a Ferrari in a 2CV Body
Hi, I’m Aurora. I’m 27 years old, living in the south of France, and navigating life with ADHD. It hasn’t always been easy, but what once felt like a constant battle has become my greatest strength. Today, ADHD fuels my ability to juggle running an auto repair shop, managing a communication agency, pursuing advanced studies, and dreaming of international expansion. But before I found this balance, I had to learn how to embrace the chaos.
A Ferrari in a 2CV Body
I first realized I was “different” at the age of 10. Teachers described me as slippery, always darting between tasks and constantly distracted. One high school math teacher famously said, “You’re like a Ferrari stuck in the body of a 2CV.” To him, I was bright—one of the smartest students he’d ever taught—but frustratingly “lazy.” What he didn’t see was how much effort I put into trying. I wanted to succeed, but I didn’t know how to focus my restless mind.
As a child, I was diagnosed with ADHD. At first, I was put on medication, but it felt like I wasn’t myself anymore. My mother eventually asked me, “Do you really want to keep taking this?” and I decided to stop. I didn’t yet understand how to live with ADHD, but I knew it was part of who I was.
Social situations added another layer of complexity. That little voice most people have—the one that stops them from saying the wrong thing? I didn’t seem to have it. My impulsivity led to awkward moments and misunderstandings, coupled with unpredictable bursts of anger. At home, my father refused to acknowledge my diagnosis. For him, nothing mattered except grades, and even with solid scores, I was never enough. This sense of inadequacy followed me for years.
The Challenges of Growing Up with ADHD
ADHD isn’t just about “struggling to focus.” It’s living with a mind that’s always on the move, insomnia that won’t let you rest, and a relentless sense of self-doubt. As I grew older, I faced new challenges. A diagnosis of generalized anxiety joined the mix, amplifying the mental noise. It felt like my brain had a constant megaphone whispering, “What if you forget? What if you fail?”
Luckily, I wasn’t navigating this storm alone. My boyfriend became my biggest supporter, learning about ADHD and helping me find stability. Whether it’s keeping track of my keys, feeding my pets, or just managing daily tasks, his understanding has been a lifeline. Sometimes, the best way to navigate a busy mind is to lean on someone who sees your struggles but believes in your potential.
Turning ADHD into a Superpower
For a long time, I believed I’d never have what my father called a “stable life.” But I realized that trying to fit into the mold others expected wasn’t the answer. Instead, I decided to create my own. I started business after business, some of which failed spectacularly. But through those failures, I learned. Today, I run a successful auto repair shop and a thriving communication agency, with plans to expand internationally. ADHD, which once felt like a burden, is now my greatest asset.
My ability to hyperfocus allows me to throw myself into multiple projects at once with an intensity that surprises even me. While others might see ADHD as a limitation, I see it as a competitive advantage. My mind may work differently, but it has allowed me to tackle challenges, build businesses, and dream bigger than I ever thought possible.
To Anyone Living with ADHD
If you’re living with ADHD, know this: you’re not alone. Yes, it can feel like a storm at times, but it’s also a source of incredible energy and creativity. The key is learning how to channel it and build systems that work for you. Surround yourself with people who support and understand you, and never let anyone define your worth by their expectations.
ADHD doesn’t make you “lazy” or “broken.” It makes you unique. It gives you a perspective and a drive that others can’t replicate. Embrace your differences, lean into your strengths, and carve your own path.
So yes, I’m still a Ferrari in the body of a 2CV. But after years of learning, I’ve figured out how to drive it, and I wouldn’t trade this ride for anything.
