Story-time:

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I always struggled with not being able to concentrate for long enough or felt like I’m always distracted by something else.

When I was a kid, I never took it seriously even tho I was struggling daily.

I was thinking it was normal to act like this and I never spoke about it with anybody.

It was until recently when I was finally diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Oh well…

So, after finding this, I start reading studies about the subject, and I found out some interesting insights that points out the relationship between ADHD and creativity.

We will also explore how people with ADHD can use their strengths and skills to achieve success in their careers, and how you as Peter Parker can became Spiderman.

Keep reading.

What is ADHD, and the benefits of having it

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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that is characterized by difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

While ADHD can present significant challenges for people like me and you, there may also be some benefits to suffering from the disorder.

There have been several studies conducted to demonstrate the link between ADHD and creativity.

Some of these studies have used various methods to examine this relationship, including surveys, tests of creative abilities, and brain imaging techniques.

What do the studies tell us: Psychological Bulletin

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The first study that I looked into, published in the journal “Psychological Bulletin,” examined the relationship between ADHD and creativity using a review of existing research.

The authors of this study found that people with ADHD may be more likely to score higher on measures of creative thinking, such as divergent thinking tests.

What are divergent thinking tests:

Divergent thinking tests measure the ability to generate a large number of unique ideas in response to a given prompt.

This type of thinking is often associated with creativity, and individuals with ADHD may have an advantage in this area due to their tendency to think outside the box and come up with novel solutions to problems.

Some key insights:

• The relationship between ADHD and creativity is complex and multifaceted, and may be influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, upbringing, education, and life experiences.
• Individuals with ADHD may be more likely to score higher on measures of creative thinking.
• The impulsivity and restlessness that are often associated with ADHD may be beneficial in the creative process, as they may help individuals with ADHD generate new ideas and pursue them with enthusiasm and energy.
• The hyperfocus and intense focus that some individuals with ADHD experience may also be beneficial in creative endeavors, as it allows them to dive deep into a project and immerse themselves in the creative process.

Creativity research journal

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Another study, published in the journal “Creativity Research Journal,” found that individuals with ADHD had higher levels of creative achievement, as measured by the number of patents, publications, and awards they had received.

Here are some additional insights that may be gleaned from the research published in the journal “Creativity Research Journal” on the link between ADHD and creativity:

• People with ADHD may have a unique perspective that allows them to come up with creative solutions to problems. This may be due to their tendency to think outside the box and see things from a different angle.
• People with ADHD may be more resilient and adaptable due to their experience managing the challenges associated with the disorder. This may make them better able to handle the setbacks and challenges that often arise in creative endeavors.
• The impulsivity and restlessness that are often associated with ADHD may actually be beneficial in the creative process. These qualities may help individuals with ADHD generate new ideas and pursue them with enthusiasm and energy. (Similar to “Psychological Bulletin” findings)

Conclusion

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That being said, it is important to note that while some people with ADHD may have an advantage in creative endeavors, they may also face challenges in other areas of life due to the difficulties associated with the disorder.

That’s why you need to visit a doctor first and talk with your healthcare provider to develop strategies for managing the symptoms and optimizing the ability to function effectively daily.

Peace! ✌🏼