“What is your Secret Strength?”
“In my 40s I was given a new and very welcome perspective on my life so far, and some of the internal struggles I have faced, when I was diagnosed with ADHD.
Although it's a disability and the struggles I was facing were real. I also consider it one of my greatest strengths. It hasn't stopped me getting a degree from Oxford and a very successful career.
On a good day I can do the work of three people and brainstorm like nobody else. But when it comes to doing work that doesn’t interest me and requires lengthy concentration, let's just say I am very grateful for my team members and the exec assistants who have supported me.
Although I can't know what my life would have looked like without ADHD, there are choices I made based on what I knew I could handle; dropping out of a PhD and a career in academia was one of those things.
It seems strange to write this as a LinkedIn post but there are old friends and colleagues out there who I feel might crack a wry smile, like I did, when they find out.
To those of you who said I was quirky and brilliant and wanted me to bring something different to the team. To those who let me run with my wild ideas (wandering wellbeing stands, online pet shows, getting C-suite leaders to practice listening, and an awful lot of creative away days in between) I want to say a huge thank you!! Some of the strengths-based development and growth I received from organisations was life changing.
And to those managers who wondered why on earth I couldn't do the necessary but boring task until an hour before it was due. I want to say sorry, but with a better understanding now.
I believe that neurodivergence is a gift and that without different thinkers we likely wouldn’t have computers, Virgin, Ikea or most of our music, art and scientific innovation, Fortunately the research now supports this.
I hope that other neurodivergent people might be inspired to be more visible and lean into their strengths, more than they focus on their challenges.
So, yeah, yeah, this isn’t Facebook, stop oversharing. There is a business-related point here:
If you are neurotypical, but you are one of those bright, innovative leaders, who are challenging the status quo, if you want to find new ways of working and moving your organisation into the future. Then come and find me at Hatched Coaching. I want to help you change the world.
If you have, or suspect you have, ADHD and want to dismantle unhelpful belief structures, learn how to manage your unique wiring and to succeed with your ADHD, not despite it. Then come and join me at Hatched ADHD to Access Your Awesome.
And whoever you are, please go and like my page to see more updates on diversity, ADHD, leadership and workplace culture.
So, this has been a tough article to publish for some reason, but I have concluded that it is the right thing to do. I recognise that some of us don’t have the option to hide our difference, and I believe wholeheartedly in authentic leadership. Please read and let me know your thoughts.”
