ADHD VIRTUAL ENTREPRENEUR

When people read about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), most folks conjure up pictures of an overly active, impulsive boy who can’t sit down or stop talking. The reality is that the ADHD picture varies dramatically, runs across gender, extending into adulthood.

Additionally, the key characteristics that are associated with ADHD don’t speak to the pervasive challenges the disorder brings. I believe that with knowledge comes power. As an entrepreneur with ADHD, understanding the differences in how your ADHD brain works can help you work with your brain rather than against it.

An expert in the field, Barkley (2000) identified how core executive functions of the brain are affected by ADHD. It is probably no surprise that the ability to inhibit is one of the brain’s key executive functions disrupted by ADHD.

Inhibition is the ability to hinder distractions, restrain responding to impulses, and hold back your actions (think hyperactivity). You need to be able to stop long enough so that you can think through your options and then make productive choices that will lead to more beneficial outcomes.

The very nature of entrepreneurialism puts you at the helm of your ship. With a myriad of things coming up at any given moment, the ability to inhibit a response is crucial to keep your business afloat. Strategies designed to enhance your ability to inhibit distractions and extraneous responses are essential. Here are three that are effective.

• Exercise

Getting regular, vigorous exercise is a great strategy on so many levels. Not only does it create neurotransmitter changes that help with focus, but also it has a host of health benefits that result in an increased of well-being. Find ways to incorporate exercise throughout your day.

• Scheduled Reinforcement

Set a timer, preferably one with a soft chime, and use the chime as a check-in to see if you are on task or have succumbed to distraction. With practice, you may find yourself staying on task more and more.

•  Medication

I am not advocating medication as the only solution, but it may be a big piece of the picture for a lot of folks. Properly titrated meds can help you keep distractions at bay and get focused results.

Working with your strengths, you can improve your ability to inhibit and increase your overall effectiveness.