Is ADHD a super power?

I’m sure I sound crazy, but my question is very real. As I’ve gotten older I’ve become more observant of behaviors that my entire life I thought were just me being lazy and a bad person. Two specific ones: impulse control and staying on task/focusing. Having been recently and officially diagnosed and medicated as an adult, I’m suddenly asking “is this what life is supposed to be like? Have I been missing out this whole time?!!” But over the years I’ve also been able to view and execute on things from a different lens than most because of the endless rabbit holes my brain goes down. It’s enabled me to come up with ideas and make connections that colleagues couldn’t. My obsession with perfection, yes has costed me years of time, but it’s also led me to produce some of the best work of my life. I’m now trying to find a balance. Trying to understand how I can use this circumstance to my advantage without costing me. What is your take? Have you found any benefits of having ADHD or has it enhanced your life in any way?

wizzie

I usually find answers and not sure if it’s pattern recognition but can see ideas in my mind and work out if it will work or not.

Andy-pants

My adhd superpowers are being a multitasking superstar and a human lie detector. I start meds next week am hoping not to lose these completely

Sam ZT

Totally agree! Yes, we have our struggles, but unlike other medical diagnoses, I agree there are benefits!

arieladhd

I’m so curious what life would feel like on ADHD medication. I’ve never tried. What differences do you notice? But yes I do think it’s a superpower. If I were a nomadic pastoralist I would be on the move and my brain would be happy. The things I struggle with are boring late capitalism things.

mentelocobe

I’d say impulse control is probably the biggest difference I’ve noticed. Things that I thought were bad habits that I’ll never control are suddenly annoying thoughts I can actually ignore. It’s made a pretty significant difference in my ability to work. I work a desk job and sitting still has been a nightmare my entire life.

trav_grow

Love this take. Thanks for sharing your story. 100% agree with you that ADHD can be a superpower. It has allowed me to accomplish my most important goals and I truly love hyperfixating on things that I know will level up my life and that of my family.

Add comment