A little about ADHD & Leadership...

Decision-Making Differently

**Decision-Making Differently**

Decision Making by Leaders with ADHD: Balancing Risks and Rewards
Making decisions is a big deal for leaders, and for those with ADHD, it comes with its own set of challenges and perks. A study by Zadelaar, Dekkers, and Huizenga looked into these ups and downs and what’s really going on beneath the surface.

 
ADHD impulsivity and inattention can affect decision-making. Leaders with ADHD might lean towards risky decisions, relying more on gut feelings than detailed analysis. But this kind of thinking has its benefits too.

 
Pros
• Innovation and Creativity: Leaders with ADHD often bring fresh perspectives. Their risk-taking can lead to innovative solutions and creative problem-solving, which is a huge plus in competitive industries.
• Quick Decision-Making: Being able to make snap decisions is key in fast-paced environments. ADHD leaders can use their impulsivity to act quickly, which is great when immediate action is needed.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Taking risks can build resilience. Leaders who often make risky decisions learn to handle failures and setbacks, making them better at bouncing back and trying new things.

 
Cons
• Increased Stress and Anxiety: Constantly making risky decisions can be stressful. For ADHD leaders, who might already struggle with emotion regulation, this can worsen symptoms and affect overall well-being.
• Potential for Poor Outcomes: ADHD impulsivity can lead to poorly thought-out decisions, increasing the chances of negative outcomes like financial losses, damaged reputations, and missed opportunities.
• Impact on Team Dynamics: Risky decisions can create uncertainty within a team. If not managed well, this can lower morale and trust in leadership. Good communication and transparency are key to avoiding these issues.

 
So, with both pros and cons for ADHD leaders and those leading ADHD teams, how do you harness the innovation and adaptability while keeping things under control? Here are some tips:

 
Strategies for Effective Decision-Making
1. Enhancing Analytical Thinking: Encourage more informed decisions by using tools with a framework rather than a detailed plan. This helps build a habit of analytical thinking and considers possible outcomes without stifling creativity and innovation.
2. Mindfulness and Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness and stress management can help leaders control their emotions and reduce impulsivity, leading to more balanced and thoughtful decisions. Yes, ADHD brains can meditate and be mindful! This can be a powerful way to develop wisdom as a leader. They know what works and what doesn’t because they’ve tried many solutions.
3. Structured Decision-Making Processes: Implementing structured decision-making processes can provide a guideline for evaluating risks and benefits. This might include brainstorming risks and rewards with a colleague who thinks differently or setting up multi-step review processes. This can help reduce risks and lead to more strategic decisions.

 
Leaders with ADHD face unique decision-making challenges. But by understanding the individual and using effective strategies, they can leverage their strengths, minimize the downsides, and contribute to innovation and adaptability in their work.


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Sherri

Zadelaar JN, Dekkers TJ, Huizenga HM. The association between risky decision making and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms: A preregistered assessment of need for cognition as underlying mechanism. J Behav Dec Making. 2020;33:579-592. https://doi.org/10.1002/bdm.2177.

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