Embracing My ADHD Brain: 7 Reasons to Celebrate Its Quirks
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Understanding My ADHD Journey
During my middle school years, I often sensed that I was different. My vibrant creativity and intense emotions set me apart from peers who appeared calm and collected. It took me a long time to realize that I had an ADHD brain, and this discovery has led to a daily journey of self-acceptance.
“Do you think I’m weird because I’m wired, or wired because I’m weird?” — Jack Gantos, What Would Joey Do?
I was full of energy, imaginative, and talkative, thriving in a homeschool environment until the complex dynamics of middle school emerged. After facing academic struggles during COVID, my mom suggested I might have ADHD. Although I initially dismissed the idea, a psychometric evaluation revealed my anxiety. Eventually, I consulted my doctor, received a diagnosis, began treatment, and have been unraveling the complexities of my mind ever since.
“The thing about ADHD is that it’s actually great. I love the way my brain works. I’m funny and flexible and creative and adventurous. My frustrations mostly stem from trying to force my ADHD brain to function in a non-ADHD world.” — Brittney Bush Bollay
Since that pivotal moment in March 2021, I’ve been uncovering more about myself and learning to appreciate my unique attributes. Regardless of how we come to have ADHD, embracing our brains is essential. After all, we’re stuck with them, so we might as well enjoy the ride. Here are seven qualities I’ve come to love about my ADHD brain:
Finding Efficient Shortcuts
My brain has a knack for discovering the quickest way to accomplish tasks. Recently, my mom and I discussed the differences between my work style and my brother's. She was careful to highlight his strong work ethic while reassuring me that I also have value in my own approach.
“We are acceptable humans as is, not once we stop having ADHD. You do not need to be fixed because you are not a broken version of normal.” — Jessica McCabe, How to ADHD: An Insider’s Guide to Working with Your Brain
While my brother may embody traditional hard work, I often seek efficient solutions rather than doing tasks for their own sake. I prefer to find simpler methods, driven by a desire for efficiency rather than laziness.
My Inner Monologue
My mind is a constant source of entertainment, filled with amusing thoughts that often lead me to chuckle. It’s challenging to articulate the whirlwind of ideas flowing through my head, but I relish the humor and creativity it brings.
“Today, when people say they ‘went down the rabbit hole,’ they are usually referring to getting sucked into spending way too long reading about or researching something on the internet. For those of us with ADHD, though, rabbit holes are a description of our daily thought process as it takes twists and turns, tangents, and digressions.” — Tamara Rosier, Your Brain’s Not Broken
The perpetual activity of my mind adds richness to my life, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.
Hyper-Focus: A Unique Gift
While babysitting a spirited eight-year-old, I witnessed his hyper-focus firsthand. He fixated on an electric bug zapper, joyfully declaring, “That’s what ADHD brains need…a purpose.” His awareness of his own focus resonated with me.
When I engage in tasks that captivate me, I become completely absorbed, unable to divert my attention elsewhere.
Sensitivity to Emotions
I have a heightened sensitivity that allows me to pick up on emotions and experiences that others may overlook. This can be both a blessing and a burden, but it enriches my life in many ways.
“People with ADD often have a special ‘feel’ for life, a way of seeing right into the heart of matters, while others have to reason their way along methodically.” — Edward M. Hallowell
Whether through my favorite shows, books, or creative projects, I deeply appreciate the beauty in subtle details.
Appreciating the Small Details
A fascinating study highlighted that while ADHD brains grasp main ideas quickly, we excel at recalling tertiary details. This ability allows us to recognize the significance of elements that might otherwise be ignored.
“People with ADHD — at any age — often possess intellectual effervescence. Unfortunately, this natural sparkle can be snuffed out by years of criticism, reprimands, redirection, lack of appreciation, and repeated disappointments, frustrations, and outright failures.” — Edward M. Hallowell, ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving with Distraction — From Childhood Through Adulthood
This talent, though sometimes frustrating, is a distinctive skill that adds depth to my understanding.
Connecting Unlikely Dots
Creativity flourishes in ADHD minds. I often find myself spontaneously generating ideas and forming connections that seem to come from nowhere.
“We have this ability to make connections — we’re just spontaneous, out-of-the-box thinkers! And so the nature of our ADHD brains is what makes us creative; after all, it’s responsible for our imagination.” — Unknown
This ability to link disparate concepts fosters innovation and originality.
Living Life at Full Speed
I often feel frustrated by the pace at which others move. Though processing can be slow, my brain's ability to quickly evaluate what matters allows me to thrive.
“A person with ADHD has the power of a Ferrari engine but with bicycle-strength brakes. It’s the mismatch of engine power to braking capability that causes the problems. Strengthening one’s brakes is the name of the game.” — Edward M. Hallowell, ADHD 2.0
I can skim through material swiftly, picking up on the essence without getting bogged down in minutiae. While I might miss some details, this skill often impresses those around me.
Living with ADHD has its challenges, but it’s also a unique journey. There’s no cure, and managing it requires ongoing effort. However, if given the choice to relinquish my ADHD, I wouldn’t. I’ve learned to cherish my mind and hope this reflection inspires you to do the same.
Best of luck on your journey. Embrace your brain!
Kindly, Katie