Signs You Could Have ADHD and Why Entrepreneurs Need to Get Tested

For entrepreneurs, strong communication is everything. Whether you're pitching investors, leading a team, or building relationships with clients, how you communicate can make or break your business. But what if certain struggles in focus, follow-through, or even impulsive decision-making aren't just quirks of the entrepreneurial spirit, but signs of ADHD?

Survey data indicate ADHD is more prevalent among entrepreneurs. Roughly 29–35% of entrepreneurs report having ADHD, compared to 5–8% in the general adult population. According to Dr. Russell Barkley, Ph.D., a trusted expert in ADHD, “ADHD can reduce life expectancy by as much as 13 years, but its risk is reversible.”

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Many driven entrepreneurs have ADHD and don't even realize it. Their natural creativity and willingness to take risks often mask our condition. Yet, untreated ADHD can sabotage the very communication and organizational skills needed to thrive. It would do us all well to get tested, especially with children, since ADHD is nearly as heritable as height.

Here are some common signs that you might have ADHD:

• Difficulty maintaining focus in conversations or meetings. Your mind drifts, or you interrupt unintentionally.

• Trouble with follow-through. You have dozens of exciting ideas, but struggle to complete projects.

• Impulsive decisions. You may jump into new ventures without weighing the risks.

• Disorganization and missed deadlines. Your inbox is overflowing, and you’re constantly putting out fires.

• Emotional volatility. Small frustrations escalate quickly, straining team and client relationships.

Left unchecked, ADHD can erode the trust and clear communication that successful entrepreneurship demands. That’s why getting tested is so important. A professional evaluation can give you clarity and open the door to evidence-based treatments and strategies that transform how you work and communicate. Knowledge is power, self-knowledge is gold.

Treatment isn't just about medication; however, medication is a leading support (trust me, I know!) Treatments can also include coaching, therapy, and systems tailored to how your brain works, helping you harness your entrepreneurial drive without letting ADHD derail your goals, and worse, your life.

If these signs sound familiar, take the next step. Your future business success—and your peace of mind—may depend on it.

If you learn you have ADHD, don't panic, I do too, and it's why I created ADHD Wise Squirrels. If this is your first time here, welcome, and if you’re returning, thanks for coming back. Have you heard the latest episode of our ADHD podcast for adults?