Hello, I’m Rick, Richard or Ricky. I too have been known as ADHD. ADHD – my life, my power! This guy, Stephen Tonti, is able to articulate how wonderful life is when you have a higher ability to focus, rather hyper-focus, on many things at the same time. However, the other side of it is when something is not exciting, it can be difficult to find the time to complete a task.
Most people would swear at this time in my life I don’t posses ADHD. Well, guess again. I simply manage it much better than most. I embrace my hyper-focus and manage distractions. I can corral a room full of squirrel chasers. I can distract the shiny object folks and keep them on task. I can wonder about in a conversation, bring it to conclusion and powerfully make a point.
When I was in school the system drugged me. Very interesting to hear how this medication was likely the cause of much of my challenges in childhood. I certainly encourage people to find better ways to manage our ADHD people. It is a gift – not a problem.
My mother was amazing and my father dealt with my challenges. They were told by doctors that I’d never amount to much. Guess the doctor was a fool!
To their surprise I turned my attention to programming computers in my early 20’s. I used my hyper-focus to my benefit.
In my forties I learned to no longer be annoyed when I lose my train of thought. At this time in my life I thrive on my 12-16 hour days – sleep is for woosies! I also thrive on my down time. Work hard, rest (recover) hard.
I often tell people my extreme nature. Here is what I say, I can bend over to tie my shoes and forget why I bent over. Really, pretty close to the reality.
I wonder who else was “labeled” and shelved. Our school systems can raise us to be strong or stifle us – which do you want for you and your family?
As he mentions Robin Williams at the end of the video – I’m saddened. Robin suffered without the proper support(s) to thrive. May he finally rest in peace.
My life is amazing – I invite you to have the same amazing life, through your creation.