The Superpowers of ADHD: How to Maximize on Neurodivergence

By Destinee Rodriguez

Now, more than ever before, we hear the term ADHD tossed around to describe someone easily distracted by items like shiny things or a butterfly flying past us, but this could not be further from the reality of living with ADHD. When someone misses a deadline, they may say, "Ugh! That was so ADHD of me," but they aren't diagnosed; they just saw someone’s disability as an excuse for a missed deadline. For most neurodivergent individuals, we may see our ADHD as a constant battle, an everyday struggle, and attribute the diagnosis to other negative things happening in our lives. It does not help that the stigma surrounding ADHD feeds right into those stereotypical ideologies. Most of us are often aggravated and annoyed by our symptoms and fail to see that our neurodivergence can benefit us in a variety of ways. Let's explore the superpowers of ADHD and how we can maximize on being neurodivergent!

The Superpowers of ADHD:

Problem Solving: Thoughts that feel like they are bouncing all over the place make us great problem solvers! Unlike neurotypical people, we can often see events and situations from unique angles. Because people with ADHD can think outside the box, we can usually come up with solutions that someone neurotypical might not think of. 

Creativity: Because people diagnosed with ADHD often daydream to escape the mundane routines of day-to-day life, we typically create intricate story lines and detailed aspects of fake scenarios and other ideas as our thoughts run rampant. This can lead to creative business ideas, more effective methods of communication, and healthy emotional expression!

Empathy & Compassion: People with ADHD can be perceived differently, see the world through a lens that might not make sense to others, and feel like they are unable to relate to people around them. This leads people with ADHD to be more empathetic and understanding of a situation and unique personal differences, which allows us to provide unconditional love towards others we know are struggling.

Hyperfocus: ​​If it captivates us, if it releases any sort of dopamine, odds are a person with ADHD will be hooked! These can be of any interest, including macabre interests like true crime. Although many people with ADHD (including myself) would say that hyperfocus and hyperfixation are one of the worst parts about ADHD, we could easily argue the opposite. Hyperfocus allows people with ADHD to deep dive into topics they enjoy and will enable them to focus intensely on the topic, leading to increased productivity and understanding of the topic. 

Fearlessness & Risk-Taking: Individuals with ADHD are more prone to fearlessness and risk-taking. Although this can sometimes lead to impulsive decisions, the risks can often be full of advantages and new opportunities that someone neurotypical may have missed. Fearlessness can benefit persons with ADHD as it is seen as an advantage when making bold decisions like changing careers or opening a business. We are always ready to take a leap!

High Energy & Enthusiasm: Boundless energy is a characteristic often seen in people with ADHD. Unlike neurotypicals, people with diagnosed ADHD are often driven by enthusiasm and can tackle projects with vigor and determination. This energy can be channeled into sports, other physical activities, and dynamic work environments when correctly redirected. It can lead to impressive accomplishments and an inspirational and zesty attitude towards life that can positively impact others around them.  

Learn to Love the Neurodivergence

Living with ADHD can oftentimes feel more problematic and burdensome than something to feel positive about. Regardless of the challenges we face as neurodivergent people, it is critical for us to recognize and consider how the positives of ADHD show up in our daily lives. Focusing on our strengths can help us live more fulfilling and successful lives in a world built for neurotypical people, where we might not fix exactly right. When we view our struggles as strengths, there is no stopping us from doing whatever we put our minds to!