5 Wonderful Benefits of ADHD

Before I get into the 5 wonderful benefits of ADHD, I have to be honest with you. Most of the time, I still don’t know what I’m doing, and I’m often overwhelmed by the process of putting my work out into the world. So it can be nerve-racking to be vulnerable and, at the same time, try not to offend anyone. 

As I’m learning about ADHD and how my brain (and others) operate, I am familiarizing myself with new information and terminology, some of which are based on dated research and carry a negative connotation. 

In one of my earlier posts, I used the terms ‘disorder’ and ‘condition’ to describe ADHD. I thought it would sound professional and clinically appropriate to use these terms, and in some way, would conceal my insecurity in the content I was making. 

I now realize that these types of words hold a negative weight. Like sharp objects, they can be harmful when not used properly. So from now on, I want to try my best not to contribute to the pathologizing language used around brain diversity.

Now, why am I telling you this?

Well, one of the reasons why I started this blog was to promote a shift in thinking, mainly around ADHD but also around other neurodivergences. Think Autism, highly sensitive persons (HSP), or sensory processing disorder (SPD).

And with that comes the responsibility of helping more people feel heard and included by normalizing brain differences that are more common than we care to realize. Not an easy task.

But hey, nobody said it was going to be easy.

So, with that said, let’s start today by addressing the areas where the ADHD brain shines! Once you become aware of them, you can begin to see the related traits as your superpowers and use them to your advantage.

The Power of Connection

Connecting and empathizing with others is your specialty!

Many people with ADHD have felt isolated or have had trouble fitting in at some point in their lives. In your case, you may have always felt like you think or behave differently than most people.

But here’s the thing, those differences can allow you to genuinely connect with people who feel like outsiders. 

You want others to feel a sense of belonging because you know how painful it can be to force yourself to conform when you just want to be yourself. 

And I know it may feel lonely and uncomfortable at times, but remember, nothing is ever just a curse or a blessing.

The Power of Creativity

You probably already know this if you are a creative person, but your creativity allows you to express yourself in beautiful and meaningful ways that could otherwise not be possible. 

When you convey your true feelings and experiences, you give the world a unique gift that only you can provide. What is more remarkable than that?

Every person I know who has ADHD has a unique way of expressing themselves. 

What is yours? I would love to know.

Dare I say… The Power of Focus!

Your ADHD can indeed feel like a curse throughout the day. However, you have the power to try and see the positives to it. 

For instance, pick a hobby or activity that gets you excited just thinking about it. It might be reading mystery novels, rollerskating, or playing guitar. When you do that thing and become engulfed in it, hours fly by because your brain goes into hyperfocus mode. It’s as if no one can get in between you and the things that fascinate you most. 

So use that laser concentration to your advantage and enjoy what you’re doing.

The Power of Being Detail Oriented

Now yes, you may have difficulty focusing on tasks that don’t interest you, but your attention to detail is a gift. You notice small details around you that others may be oblivious to. 

For example, I often find myself admiring small elements in fashion and nature. It’s like I get tunnel vision, and I can’t see anything else. I become captivated by the little details, which is why I get easily distracted and spend hours completing important projects, to my schedule’s dismay.

The Power of Energy

Finally, you often have high energy that gives the Energizer Bunny a run for his money. Of course, not everyone experiences hyperactive ADHD traits, but most ADHDers I know give off an infectious, positive vibe that defines their bright personalities. 

If any of these outstanding traits resonate with you, please let me know which ones describe you and why!  

In the next five years, let’s hope the societal norm celebrates the many ways of thinking and operating. To this day, society insists on defining normal versus abnormal. Would you agree that this type of thinking is so ten years ago? 🙋🏽‍♀️

I say it’s time to move past the idea of a single “standard” or “norm” and start to acknowledge and accept the beauty of diversity. 

Think of it this way. Suppose biodiversity refers to various kinds of plants that make up our ecosystem and play unique roles in their environments. In that case, neurodiversity implies many types of brains make the world a fantastically fascinating and ever-evolving place. 

I appreciate your brain and the way you think, and I hope you’re learning to as well! I’ll see you in the next post. 

Much love,

Wendy