ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) coaching
The challenges faced as a result of ADHD in a rigid world often deplete the energy that can set free the superpowers that come with the ADHD brain, for example,
the ability to hyperfocus for extended periods of time
freedom to express novel angles or perspectives, resulting in great problem-solving skills, innovation and creativity
great empathy, high levels of social intelligence and - often great conversationalists because of this, as found in this study.
Courage - impulsive responses do have it’s benefits and responding to the here and now without overthinking can be a plus according to this research.
energy! that translates into the capacity to produce much in a limited time
resilience – working through numerous obstacles, challenges and setbacks, builds resilience
We refer to superpowers due to the spiky profiles that are associated with neurodiversity. It refers to the higher highs (skills) and the lower lows (challenges) than that of the neurotypical brain. Let me explain – a neurotypical brain has the ability to focus, but the ADHD brain, for example, has the exponential power of hyperfocus – maintaining a higher level of hyperfocus over an extended period of time.
However, due to masking and being subjected to society’s rigid norms of how success is measured, energy and confidence can quickly dissipate. Offering these novel ideas or solutions, or insights might be curbed and the real gifts are not enabled to come to its right.
ADHD can present very differently in different people. ADHD used to be stereotyped as being distractable and hyperactive. However, as the dialogue about ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity become increasingly less stigmatised and therefore more open, information has become more accessible. As a result, we are seeing a significant increase in “later in life” diagnoses as more and more people recognise ADHD traits in their own lives.
ADHD is a broad umbrella term that includes 3 types of ADHD:
ADHD with hyperactivity
ADHD with distractibility
ADHD with both hyperactivity and distractibility
Understanding your ADHD and developing awareness about which of your challenges are indeed linked to ADHD and understanding how the ADHD brain works can be liberating. Furthermore, recognising that your ADHD contributes to your biggest strengths or gifts can result in an empowering shift from viewing it through a deficit lens to feeling empowered to harness the strengths and be able to limit the impact of the challenges in daily life.
Working with a coach to harness your strengths and dial down the challenges, can create a greater sense of ease, and less anxiety and stress which in turn leaves you with more energy and headspace to flow – to be who you are at your core.