Adult ADHD or renaissance (wo)man?

Not strictly speaking a personal branding item, but I spotted an article in yesterday's Times Career supplement that the WHO now 'recognises' that ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) can continue into adult life. Apparently, the symptoms include a compulsion to move on to the next project once the most challenging bits are done, and getting fidgety after sitting still for too long.

Personally, I prefer to point clients to Belbin's definitions of team roles - not everyone is a completer-finisher; some people thrive on challenge while others are quite happy to let someone else handle the challenges then take over and manage the project through to its conclusion.

Alternatively, take a look at  "What Do I Do When I Want to Do Everything?" If you're one of those people who is fascinated by anything and everything; if your bookshelf looks like the main stack at the British Library; if your workshop is full of half-completed projects, fear not: you may be a 'scanner', and the world needs you. Read this book to find out if you are, and why everyone needs a scanner around.

Check back in a few days for a more detailed review

Comments

[Harp Arora]

Rob, thank you for pointing out that scanners are people too. :)

I spent most of my life thinking there was something wrong with me. Well-meaning friends, family, and hiring managers were always pointing out my inability to focus...in university (switched majors 4 times and universities 3 times), to a job (14 jobs in 10 years), to my ever-changing hobbies and community work (don't even ask).

I was lucky enough to come across an excerpt from Barbara's book two years ago and what a giant relief it was to understand my lifelong "problem" wasn't actually a deficiency - it was a strength.

It's sad that many scanners experience a sense of shame about their unusual way of being in the world. Thanks to Barbara, they can finally feel understood and celebrate this unique aspect of their personal brands! ...Harp