Symptoms as Superpowers: 5 Things ADHDers Are Great At

The next step after diagnosis is treatment. Fortunately, most people find ADHD medications to be very effective in helping manage their symptoms. And when those symptoms are under control, the potential upsides of ADHD suddenly start to appear.

At Done, we know that having ADHD doesn't have to hold you back. In fact, we've identified five of the areas where ADHDers really shine.

1. Creativity

Did you know that people with ADHD are often gifted when it comes to creativity? It all comes down to a process known as divergent thinking, which is similar to the idea of thinking "outside the box." Divergent thinkers can take a single question or suggestion and come up with more original and inventive ideas than the average person. They're the ultimate brainstormers, and they often use unique approaches which lead to more effective problem-solving.

People with ADHD excel at divergent thinking. In a number of studies, ADHDers are able to come up with not only a greater number of ideas, but also more inventive ideas compared to neurotypical participants. Divergent thinking is a big reason why ADHD and creativity are so closely linked. So it should come as no surprise that there are a number of creative celebrities with ADHD, including will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas, Adam Levine of Maroon 5, and Howie Mandel of "America's Got Talent."

2. Hyperfocus

ADHD is famously known as the disorder of distractibility. To be fair, the words "attention deficit" are right in the name. However, hyperfocus — the literal opposite of a lack of focus — is another common symptom of ADHD.

Hyperfocus involves getting locked in on a certain activity. When they're hyperfocusing, someone with ADHD can maintain their attention on that task for hours at a time. The things around them are tuned out, and they can zero in on the thing that inspires excitement or passion in them.

This ability can be incredibly useful for ADHDers. Being absorbed in a particular activity can lead to all kinds of positive outcomes. They might be able to improve their skills or engage in a hobby. There's the possibility of learning something new or being more productive. If you learn what triggers your hyperfocus and use it to your advantage, you can enjoy one of the little-known perks of ADHD.

3. Spontaneity

People with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may find that some of their symptoms lead to exciting experiences. A tendency towards impulsivity is something that you have to keep in check at times, but when it does come out, you may be pleasantly surprised by the results.

For example, someone with impulsive ADHD symptoms may be more willing to take risks and try new things. By acting on impulse, they're less likely to overthink or worry about the potential downsides of trying something different. Instead, they're up for the challenge and are even energized by the unknown possibilities of where it will lead.

Similarly, an impulsive nature can lead to more spontaneous moments in everyday life. Someone with ADHD may be more likely to suggest the last-minute road trip to explore a nearby town or go skydiving at the drop of a hat. These types of experiences can lead to a richer life filled with unexpected opportunities and adventures.

4. Energy

Speaking of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, the other half of this type of ADHD can also prove to be beneficial. Hyperactivity is most commonly associated with feeling fidgety, restless, or on edge. But that's not necessarily the case 100% of the time.

ADHDers who tend to be hyperactive have lots of energy, which means they can participate in fun, physical activities without feeling as worn out as others. For example, they often excel in sports due in part to their abundance of energy. Some of the world's top athletes, including Simone Biles and Michael Phelps, have proudly shared their ADHD diagnoses with the world.

5. Resiliency

It's no secret that ADHD has its challenges. But many people with the disorder flourish in life despite their diagnosis. That's because people with ADHD are often very resilient due to the challenges they face each day.

In one study, a majority of children with ADHD were perceived by their teachers and parents as being resilient. It's no secret that this is an important skill to have in life, and since ADHD often persists into adulthood, it makes sense that children with the disorder only continue to become more resilient over time.

While some of the symptoms associated with ADHD can certainly have their upsides, that doesn’t mean that treating them is a bad thing. In fact, you'll find that managing your symptoms makes them easier to harness for your own benefit. If you're curious about your treatment options or want to find the best ADHD medication for your needs, reach out to us at Done.