First off, I am biased. As an entrepreneur, I understand firsthand how it can unleash animal spirits inside of you to hustle, grow, and chart your own course. My ADHD makes it harder in a lot of ways. Staying organized, doing the boring stuff, and going down irrelevant rabbit holes are some of the challenges I face.
On the other hand, I believe that my non-linear thinking, the fact that I can never stop thinking, and the way I can hyperfocus on improving, tweaking, and innovating new solutions are things that I believe my ADHD helps make possible. For this blog, I want to talk about hyperfocus. While a great trait (I know some out there don't always like it, especially when you forget to eat), it should be said that you'll never hyperfocus on building a business if the business is not aligned with your passion, interests, and values.
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is often perceived as a challenge due to its characteristics like impulsivity, distractibility, and restlessness. However, beneath these surface-level traits lies an incredible ability known as hyperfocus.
Hyperfocus is the state in which individuals with ADHD become fully immersed in a task, exhibiting intense concentration and an almost superhuman ability to block out distractions. You just need to learn how to unlock this awesome state to be able to use it to your advantage. In the beginning, you may begin to gain awareness of the times you are in or have been in hyperfocus, but with some strategy, you could actually choose to activate it instead of just waiting for it to happen (and sometimes it won't).
Entrepreneurship demands creative thinking and the ability to generate creative ideas. Hyperfocus allows individuals with ADHD to dive deep into their thoughts, explore various angles, and come up with out-of-the-box solutions that can give their business a competitive edge.
Business owners often encounter complex challenges that require persistent problem-solving. Hyperfocus enables individuals with ADHD to stick with a problem until it's resolved, pushing through setbacks and finding solutions that others might have overlooked.
In the fast-paced business world, continuous learning is essential. Entrepreneurs with ADHD can leverage hyperfocus to immerse themselves in learning new skills and absorbing vast amounts of information in a short period. This ability to quickly adapt and learn can be a game-changer.
Hyperfocus tends to occur when an individual is deeply passionate about a subject. Entrepreneurs can use this to their advantage by aligning their business ventures with their passions. This not only increases the likelihood of hyperfocus but also fuels the drive needed to overcome obstacles.
Unfortunately, it can be almost impossible to activate hyperfocus for something that doesn't interest you unless you find a way to make it interesting. Gamification and using dopamine to your advantage can help with this, but you need to figure out what works for you as everyone is different - including when it comes to ADHD.
Recognize the situations or environments that trigger hyperfocus for you. Is it a specific type of task, a certain time of day, or a particular setting? Understanding your triggers will help you deliberately induce hyperfocus when needed. For me, it often comes down forcing myself to use my phone- locking apps and putting on some Twenty One Pilots music. I am a huge fanboy of them. Their music feeds my soul. While their music wouldn't be calming for most, for me, the intensity paradoxically calms me down.
Caffeine is often a big trigger for ADHDers. Did you know coffee has its biggest effect 20 minutes after being ingested, but only lasts for a few hours? Make the most of this by saving your cup of joe for when you really need it and make the absolute most of that time! After this, a crash is inevitable, so be prepared.
Implement time-blocking techniques to allocate specific time slots for tasks that require deep concentration. This helps prevent burnout while optimizing your productive bursts of hyperfocus. I recommend an app called Sunsama, which has greatly helped my productivity - when I remember to use it, that is!
Group similar tasks together and tackle them during hyperfocus periods. This can lead to increased efficiency and productivity, as your focused mind can rapidly move through tasks within a category.
While hyperfocus is a powerful tool, it's crucial to balance it with breaks and mindfulness practices. Overexertion can lead to fatigue and reduced overall performance. Incorporate meditation or brief walks to recharge.
Not every task requires your energy. Delegate tasks that are better suited for others or collaborate with team members to leverage their strengths. Forcing yourself to do everything will burn you out before you can get to the actually important stuff that will move the needle forward in your business.
ADHD brings a unique set of qualities to the table, including the often-overlooked superpower of hyperfocus. As an entrepreneur, embracing and strategically applying this superpower to your business can lead to heightened creativity, problem-solving prowess, and a competitive advantage.
By understanding your triggers, managing your time effectively, and finding a balance between hyperfocus and relaxation, you can harness this superpower to steer your entrepreneurial journey toward remarkable success. Remember, ADHD is not always a limitation – it's an opportunity to unleash your amazing potential! Let's own that! You have to deal with the struggle but don't forget to embrace the opportunity.
*Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical or psychological advice. If you suspect you have ADHD, consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.*
We'd love to be of service! We can tailor our approach to your specific goals so reach out to find out how.
David DeWitt, CFP® : Sep 19, 2023 11:36:00 AM
Today, we're addressing a significant topic that resonates deeply with entrepreneurs who have ADHD: time blocking for financial success.
4 min read
David DeWitt, CFP® : Jun 7, 2024 12:00:00 PM
Everybody has their own set of strengths and weaknesses, especially those of us living with ADHD. When it comes to careers and money management,...
David DeWitt, CFP® : Aug 12, 2023 10:00:00 AM
Retirement planning is a crucial aspect of financial stability, providing a comfortable and worry-free future for yourself, your partner if...
