Rethink ADHD as a Unique Operating System, Not a Broken Brain

The words people use to describe ADHD can sink deep. For years you might have heard only the negatives: distractible, impulsive, inconsistent. But what if those same 'symptoms' are actually a sign of your brain’s strongest features? Instead of a broken computer, picture an ultra-adaptive operating system that switches between tasks with lightning speed. It’s not always compatible with standard office life, but it’s made for situations that need quick pivots, bursts of energy, and unexpected insights. Remember the story about the professional who kept misplacing his keys but could spot patterns no one else saw? That knack, often shrugged off as 'chaos,' became the secret sauce for memorable solutions at work.

You can start today by thinking honestly about the parts of your life that feel most chaotic. Instead of shaming yourself, jot down a few moments when your quick wit, restless energy, or curiosity led you somewhere useful. Share a recent example with someone you trust, explaining how your ADHD-driven way of thinking changed the outcome. Next, pay attention to when your energy feels in flow—maybe it’s while brainstorming, tinkering with new projects, or troubleshooting problems at home. Look for ways to spend more time in those situations—and the next time you catch yourself thinking 'I’m broken,' try flipping the script. Your brain isn’t broken, it just runs a different kind of software. Give it the credit it deserves.