Leadership and Development Trainer
We didn’t have ADHD when I was growing up in the 50’s and 60’s, but if we had, I would have had it. I say that in jest, of course, because it’s always been there, we just didn’t know a lot about it. But I am inspired by our continued efforts to understand and deal with this and other conditions that present challenges to learning that can be overcome, thus maximizing the potential of all of our students to reach their full potential.
Although I was never formally diagnosed, I eluded to the fact that at times I clearly demonstrated lack of prolonged focus symptomatic of attention deficit. I suspect that my sons may have inherited some the same challenges and strengths as well.
Dr. Daniel DeJoode, founder of Don’t ADHD Alone, has been an inspiration to me as he outlines not only apparent deterrents to staying focused, but the tremendous strengths that people with ADHD demonstrate. With his permission, I will share some of his insights.
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodivergent condition that affects approximately 5 percent of boys, girls, men, and women. It is often misunderstood as a set of deficiencies that hinder achievement and academic progress. Some of the commonly recognized characteristics of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviors. In addition, people with ADHD typically exhibit an interest-driven focus, emotional hyperarousal, and Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). All of these create challenges for motivation, time management, attainment of goals, and management of emotions. Broadly, these challenges can be described as a struggle with executive function.”
“Alternatively, we can reimagine the traits of ADHD as providing great potential and capacity. For example, inattention is also a sign of curiosity and disdain for boredom. Hyperactivity and impulsivity are signs of an energetic person willing to take risks and explore new experiences. Interest-driven focus enables one to hyper focus on a topic or activity of great interest and a large capacity for learning and mastering new subjects. Emotional hyperarousal and RSD are signs of someone who is passionate, cares deeply for what they do and for others around them and wants to achieve and contribute. This combination of traits describes people who are not lazy or underachievers but who have the potential to become thought leaders, artists, innovators, or entrepreneurs.”
“I work with people that want to understand ADHD in order to release the creativity and productivity of individuals with ADHD, help them succeed professionally, and share lessons of productivity with everyone. I emphasize the need to seek assistance and develop understanding and to externalize functions where needed through my motto, ‘Don’t ADHD Alone.’”
What I find so inspiring about Dr. DeJoode’s message is its positivity and the clear outline of the opportunities we have as educators to grow in knowledge and understanding. We do everything we can to help our students’ overcome their challenges to learning, then commit to provide every student with the opportunity to maximize his or her potential to live a rich, full life.
Congratulations on your dedication to your chosen profession. To paraphrase Horace Mann, “As Educators, we are not content to see what will happen, we have the determination to make the right things happen.” You are amazing. Have a great rest of the school year.
Denny Smith is a former teacher and coach, a motivational speaker, and an author committed to making our schools and communities safe and welcoming for all people. Excerpts from his latest books, Emotional Intelligence 101 and Coaches Make the Difference,” can be previewed at http://www.dennysmith.com. For more information on the work of Dr. DeJoode, visit www.dontadhdalone.net
