Is ADHD a Superpower? It depends…

Oct 28

Written By Dave

Let me preface this article by writing that I believe everyone has a superpower, and I use several tools and methods to help my coaching clients discover theirs. Keep reading, I’ll share one tool with you below to help you find yours.

There is a frequent, friendly argument in the ADHD world about whether ADHD is or is not a superpower. I’ve come down to the following answer:

The more privileged a person is, the more likely they are to claim ADHD is a superpower.

Privilege comes with wealth, social status, network, and access to resources. The higher their privilege, the more likely they are to claim ADHD as a superpower, because they are free to tap into their hyperfocus and be distracted from pressing responsibilities that most people face, such as bills, family, and work.

Conversely, those with less privilege are less likely to view ADHD in this way, as they may face more significant barriers in managing their symptoms due to limited support, healthcare access, or accommodations.

Is ADHD a superpower?

What do you think? Here’s some music to listen to while you consider my theory. Kudos to Paris Hilton for capturing ADHD in her catchy song. Hilton also bravely appeared in the ADHD documentary, The Disruptors. I interviewed the film’s executive producer, Nancy Armstrong, about it here.

We all have superpowers.

You have superpowers, we all do. In The ADHD Advantage, I share specific strategies to identify and apply your superpowers, regardless of your neurotype, because we all have superpowers; however, in most cases, I don’t believe ADHD is one of them.

If you’re seeking a tool to help you drill in on your superpower, I recommend Ikigai.

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