The Ying and Yang of ADHD

If you navigate through the world carrying the ADHD moniker, the road leading to a flourishing life will likely require more creativity, persistence and effort than someone who is not neurodivergent. Motivation, self-confidence and effort can fade quickly; a distraction, a minor mistake or anticipated failure might be all it takes to shut down any worthwhile effort. Self-doubt, anxiety, procrastination, the painful and impractical comparisons to anyone who is different or perceived as more capable or worthy, and the ever-lurking shiny marble can delay initiating a significant project or activity or may even shut it down completely. The necessary strengths and capacity for a prosperous effort and outcome are likely present, but they can get lost in the chaos and may require time and effort to identify what they are and how to realign with them.

A few valued traits commonly associated with ADHD, which may get lost in the shuffle (but need to be remembered and embraced) are;

 Originality- The ability to generate creative and unique ideas.

Infectious Enthusiasm- An abundance of physical and mental energy that can motivate  the efforts of others through mundane as well as difficult tasks.

Divergent Thinking- The ability to consider many possible solutions to a single problem.

Creativity- Thinking and working outside the box.

Innovation- A constant desire to see what can be rather than what is.

Resilience, Adaptability, Persistence- The ability to adjust, to change on the fly and alter an approach when necessary.

Spontaneity- High energy and enthusiasm when facing new challenges.

Empathy- Heightened awareness and sensitivity to the emotions and needs of others.

   The Gift of Humor- can stimulate enjoyable activity and alleviate stressful moments.

I believe the key to a gratifying and thriving life rests in our resolve to recognize, appreciate and utilize our unique strengths/gifts to their fullest advantage, and to accept, learn and grow through our mistakes and disappointments with acceptance rather than judgment. We seldom plan to fail!  But we must plan to succeed. It’s easier to do when we rely on the strengths we possess, rather than the ones we wish we had.