The Strengths of Adults with ADHD
13 Mar 2023
by
Noetic
2
minute read
Last Updated
Sep 6, 2023
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Everyone with ADHD experiences it differently and so will have unique strengths and traits. Whether you have an ADHD diagnosis or not, by understanding and celebrating the strengths often associated with ADHD we can create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for everyone.
Strengths
👩🎨 Creativity
People with ADHD are often really creative. Studies have shown that people with ADHD typically have higher levels of original creative thinking, creative achievements, and idea generation than people without ADHD. In a brainstorming session, more ideas are better!
🔬 Hyperfocus
People with ADHD sometimes experience long periods of intense focus. While normally people associate a lack of focus with ADHD, there’s an incredible flip side to it where someone can spend unusually long periods on tasks or hobbies without taking a break or getting distracted. It’s a matter of finding the activities that hold their interest.
👨💻 Entrepreneurship
Some of the traits of ADHD make people particularly drawn to and successful at entrepreneurship. Impulsivity and hyperfocus in particular can create a powerful mix of decisiveness to take the risk, and then steadfast commitment to see a business get off the ground.
🏃♀️ High energy
Some people with ADHD have high levels of energy that can be channelled into sports or performance. It works well with their enthusiasm and determination!
🗣 Conversational ability
Often, people with ADHD are talkative and process their multiple streams of thought aloud, making them engaging conversationalists. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and skill in storytelling can make them great people to chat with.
🤸♂️ Flexibility
People with ADHD are often spontaneous and adaptable, making them well-suited for fast-paced or dynamic environments. It also makes them great friends to have if you like trying new things!
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Sources
Boot, N., Nevicka, B., & Baas, M. (2017). Subclinical symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with specific creative processes. Personality and Individual Differences, 114, 73–81.
Wiklund, J., Patzelt, H., & Dimov, D. (2016). Entrepreneurship and psychological disorders: How ADHD can be productively harnessed. Journal of Business Venturing Insights, 6, 14-20.
Hupfeld, K.E., Abagis, T.R. & Shah, P. (2019) Living “in the zone”: hyperfocus in adult ADHD. ADHD Atten Def Hyp Disord 11, 191–208