Is ADHD a Superpower in Business?

‘Superpower’ is a controversial word when used in the same sentence as ADHD, and for good reason - many people feel that the term minimises the difficulties experienced by those of us who have ADHD, and plays into the narrative of it being ‘quirky’ or funny.

Personally, I DO consider ADHD to be my superpower in business. Does it also mean I run myself into the ground and over extend myself time and time again? Yes. But I can - and have - learnt ways to manage that.

Here are some of the reasons we make brilliant entrepreneurs and why ADHD might just be your Superpower too.

1. High Levels of Creativity and Innovation

Business owners with ADHD often experience bursts of creativity that fuel their entrepreneurial spirit. The ADHD brain tends to see possibilities and connections that others may miss and our ability to problem solve means we are always innovating.

Note: We need to understand that our energy supply isn’t the same as neurotypicals, and we need time to rest and restore.

2. Hyperfocus: The Double-Edged Sword

A lesser-known aspect of ADHD is hyperfocus. While ADHD is characterised by short attention spans, people with this condition can become intensely focused on tasks that captivate their interest, which can come in handy when you have a project or deadline

Note: Watch out for hyperfocus because we can literally forget to eat, drink, sleep or go to the loo!

3. Risk-Taking Propensity

Entrepreneurs with ADHD often have a higher propensity for risk-taking, a crucial trait for starting and growing a business. While others might hesitate, ADHD business owners might jump into new opportunities headlong, enabling rapid growth and innovation. The saying ‘jump, and then figure it out’ is often used when talking about ADHD business owners!

Note: It’s great to know when to take risks, but understand that our impulsivity means it might not always be the right move. Talk it through with someone before you hit the button!

4. Resilience and Adaptability

The business environment requires constant adaptation. Many individuals with ADHD develop strong resilience and adaptability skills, learning to manage their symptoms. This resilience can translate into business, enabling quick pivots when faced with challenges or needing to start over.

Note: “you’re so resilient” isn’t always a compliment - we have become resilient through years of having to be, and it can often lead to people over-relying on you to be the strong one or make decisions.

5. Networking and Relationship Building

People with ADHD often have dynamic, engaging personalities, which can be an asset when networking and building relationships - a key part of growing a business.

Note: Be wary of where you are masking in these situations and have an escape plan for if your battery is running low and you need to get away!

Conclusion: Embracing ADHD as a Superpower

ADHD can be a superpower in business. It offers unique strengths like creativity, hyperfocus, risk-taking, resilience, and dynamic networking abilities. But we can only use these as a superpower if we understand their shadow side, and mitigate for that too.

If we rely on our ‘superpowers’ for too long, we run the risk of burning out completely - and then we’re no good to anyone!