Have you ever wondered why you like certain foods or why you act the way you do? A big part of the answer is in something called DNA. DNA is like a special code in our body that tells it how to grow and work. But it doesn’t just decide what color your hair or eyes will be. It also helps shape how you manage your time, how you feel, and even how healthy you are. Could we possibly create strategies for time management through DNA insights?
Today's guest Len May, understands this perspective very well. He focuses on DNA-based health and coaching through his program, LenMayCoaching.com. Len is a thought leader in personalized health and wellness, blending the science of genomics with the art of personal connection.
As a time management coach, in my interaction and recommendations for people. I noticed some people are quick to implement certain strategy than others. I wamted to know what a person's DNA has got to do with their everyday choices. I asked Len: "Do you think a person’s DNA affects how they grow over time or how they manage their time and day?"
Len said Yes!
DNA is like your personal GPS. When we're born, we get 50% of our DNA from our mom and 50% from our dad. It’s like a set of switches – some parts of our DNA are turned on, like our eye color, skin color, and even our gender at birth.
What we do in life can turn certain parts on or off. For example, what we eat, how much stress we have, or even exposure to chemicals can change how our DNA shows up in our lives. DNA gives you the map for your life. It’s like driving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia without a GPS.
You might get there, but you’ll hit some bumps and detours. With a GPS, you know where the problems are and can avoid them. That’s what DNA does for your life.
He also pointed out that 99.9% of our DNA is the same, but that small 0.1% is what makes us unique. If we understand that, everything changes.
For example, when doctors prescribe medicine, they don't always consider how your body processes it. Some people need more or less of a dose, and understanding this is key. Not everyone reacts the same to the same medication. Some people may have depression but not respond to typical antidepressants, which could cause bad side effects like suicidal thoughts.
As someone diagnosed with ADD as a kid and was given medication, but it made him feel numb, and was never himself!
Over time, he realized he could focus intensely on things he enjoyed, like painting. People with ADD often have lower levels of dopamine, the chemical that makes us feel good. Our brains are always looking for ways to get more dopamine, so we can easily get distracted. But when we find something that excites us, we can focus for hours. For example, Len painted for six hours without realizing it because he was in a state of hyper-focus.
With ADD, you can also multitask effectively, but you need structure. He encourages keeping a to-do list and reward yourself after completing tasks. This way, you stay on track and people living with ADD can tap into this for structure and strenght.
His advice: "First, be kind to yourself. Don't focus on what you didn't do, but celebrate what you did accomplish. For a practical tip, start by making a structured list. I live by my calendar, and if something isn't on there, it doesn’t happen. Keep your to-do list small – no more than seven items. Tackle the hardest tasks first, and remember to reward yourself when you complete them. For me, a hike in nature is my reward – it helps me clear my mind and be more creative."
Want to connect with Len? You can find him at EndoDNA.com, https://www.lenmaycoaching.com/ or listen to his podcast Everything is Personal on YouTube or anywhere you get your podcasts. On social media, He is @LenMay or @LenMayDNA on Instagram. He also has a book called Making Cannabis Personal, available on Amazon.
Here are the key takeaways from this episode on Unlocking Time Management Through DNA Insights:
1.Knowing your genetic makeup can help you make better life choices.
2. ADHD can be reframed as a superpower when leveraged properly.
3. Personalized health strategies can enhance focus and productivity.
4. Understanding your DNA provides a roadmap for lifestyle choices.
5. Limit your to-do list to avoid overwhelm and increase focus.
6. Be kind to yourself and celebrate completed tasks.
7. Finding your flow state can enhance creativity and productivity.
8. Success stories can inspire and motivate change.
9. Using a reward system can help maintain focus and motivation.
10. Genetic testing can personalize medication and improve mental health outcomes.
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