A little about ADHD & Leadership...

**What are ADHD Super Powers?**

Exploring the Positive Aspects of ADHD: Insights from Successful Adults
ADHD often gets a bad rap for issues like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. But a study by Sedgwick, Merwood, and Asherson (2019) highlights some positive sides to ADHD, seen through the eyes of successful adults. This research gives us cool insights into how ADHD can actually help in personal and professional success.
Key Findings
The study used open-ended interviews with successful adults who have ADHD. These folks shared their experiences, which revealed six main themes showing the positive sides of ADHD: cognitive dynamism, courage, energy, humanity, resilience, and transcendence.
Cognitive Dynamism
This theme is all about the diversity in neurodiversity. Participants talked about having a heightened ability to think creatively and dynamically. This kind of thinking lets them come up with multiple solutions to problems and hyper-focus on tasks they find interesting. These traits are super useful in fields that need innovation and out-of-the-box thinking.
Courage
Courage stood out as a big theme, with participants mentioning their willingness to take risks and face new challenges. This adventurous spirit often leads to unique opportunities and the ability to handle uncertain situations confidently. Leaders with ADHD might find that their boldness sets them apart and helps drive their organizations forward.
Energy
High levels of energy and drive came up a lot. This boundless energy can turn into enthusiasm and persistence, helping people tackle tough tasks and keep up momentum in their careers. Being able to sustain high levels of activity is a huge plus for leaders.
Humanity
The theme of humanity reflects the empathy and compassion that many people with ADHD have. Participants reported having a strong sense of empathy and a desire to help others, which can lead to positive relationships and a supportive work environment. This humanistic approach can improve team dynamics and promote a culture of inclusivity.
Resilience
Resilience, or the ability to bounce back from setbacks, is another key strength found in the study. Participants highlighted their ability to recover from failures and keep going in the face of challenges. This resilience is crucial for leaders, as it helps them navigate the ups and downs of their professional journeys with determination and optimism.
Transcendence
Transcendence is about rising above difficulties and finding meaning and purpose in life. Participants talked about self-acceptance and being able to channel their ADHD traits into positive outcomes. This transcendence allows people to use their unique strengths and contribute meaningfully to their personal and professional lives.
Implications for Leadership
The study’s findings highlight the importance of recognizing and using the positive aspects of ADHD. For leaders with ADHD, these traits can drive innovation, build strong relationships, and maintain resilience in tough times. By embracing their cognitive dynamism, courage, energy, humanity, resilience, and transcendence, leaders can turn potential challenges into powerful assets.

The study by Sedgwick, Merwood, and Asherson offers a valuable perspective on ADHD, showing how its traits can lead to success. By focusing on the positive aspects, people with ADHD can reframe their experiences and use their unique strengths to reach their goals. This research encourages a shift from seeing ADHD as a deficit to recognizing and celebrating its potential for positive impact.

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Sherri

Sedgwick JA, Merwood A, Asherson P. The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD. ADHD Atten Deficit Hyperact Disord. 2019;11:241–253. doi: 10.1007/s12402-018-0277-6.