Harnessing Your Neurodiversity Gifts
Neurodiversity comes in many forms - which is why businesses that embrace neurodiversity benefit from such a wide range of talents, skills and perspectives.
This week’s blog focuses on ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). ADHD affects more than 8 million adults (or up to 5% of Americans) but is not always well understood.
The traits of ADHD are often defined as restlessness, trouble concentrating and acting on impulse. However, this simplistic description fails to capture the unique attributes that individuals with ADHD can bring to the table for the businesses they work for, or for themselves.
As an executive coach with ADHD - with many neurodiverse entrepreneurs and executives who I’m proud to call my clients - it will come as no surprise to you that I am a passionate advocate of the benefits of ADHD in work and business.
Here’s how YOU can harness YOUR ADHD to Bloom possibilities in business!
Unleash your creativity and innovation
People with ADHD often have a unique and unconventional approach to problem-solving. We think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems that others may not see.
This ability to think differently can lead to innovation in fields as wide ranging as art, science, technology, and more. Those with ADHD can count within their number business leaders such as Bill Gates, athletes such as Michael Phelps, and artists such as Solange Knowles.
Nobody is demanding that you reach such heights (but don’t rule it out!). However it’s important that you trust in your creativity and innovation - you never know where it might lead.
Demonstrate your hyperfocus and productivity
While ADHD is often associated with ease of distraction, it can also result in periods of intense focus, known as “hyperfocus”.
During these periods, those of us with ADHD are able to concentrate on a task for extended periods of time while working at an incredibly productive level. Ensure you make the most of this trait by volunteering for work that requires a high level of focus and attention to detail (the work you excel at!).
Embrace your energy and enthusiasm
People with ADHD often have high levels of energy and enthusiasm. This is an incredible asset in a wide range of careers, from sales, to sports, to entertainment. Enthusiasm not only motivates you, it can be infectious and inspire others to work harder and be more productive as well.
So don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for your work and remember that all workplaces are home to different personality types. Just because somebody doesn’t match your level of enthusiasm, it doesn’t mean that it’s not appreciated nonetheless.
Practice multitasking and stay adaptable
ADHD can make it easier for individuals to multitask and switch between tasks quickly. This adaptability is a formidable skill in modern, fast-paced work environments where the ability to juggle multiple tasks is essential.
Share your unique Perspective
People with ADHD often have a unique perspective on the world around them. We
see things differently - and often have insights and ideas that others do not.
By embracing this unique perspective, individuals with ADHD can bring new ideas and solutions to the table. Just like your creativity, your unique perspective is something that you should never be afraid to share.
Learn More
I hope that the advice above has helped to demonstrate how and why ADHD blooms possibilities in business. If you are interested in diving deeper into how your unique traits can help you achieve, consider reflecting on these questions:
🟠 How has ADHD helped you to think creatively or innovatively in your life or career?
🔵 How do you harness your periods of hyperfocus to achieve greater productivity?
🟢 How has your unique perspective as an individual with ADHD helped you to see problems and solutions differently than others?
You can also reach out to me at any time on social media or by scheduling a call.
I help people just like you from around the globe innovate their ideas into reality - so that they can make a greater impact in the world. ✨ -Kate