Guest Author: Dave Delaney | Communication Strategist, Coach, & Author
When I was diagnosed with ADHD at 50, everything began to make sense. My energy and hyperfocus on projects when time flew by versus being unable to start or finish the work that bored me. My struggles with self-doubt and impostor syndrome were once masked with alcohol and talking too much.
An estimated 6% of US adults—around 15.5 million—have ADHD, with global prevalence ranging from 2% to 5%. ADHD is about as heritable as height, which means if you have ADHD, one or more of your kids likely do, too… and same with your parents.
For entrepreneurs, strong communication is everything. Whether you’re pitching investors, leading a team, or building relationships with clients, how you communicate can make or break your business. But what if certain struggles in focus, follow-through, or even impulsive decision-making aren’t just quirks of the entrepreneurial spirit, but signs of ADHD?
Roughly 29–35% of entrepreneurs report having ADHD.
Survey data indicate ADHD is more prevalent among entrepreneurs. Roughly 29–35% of entrepreneurs report having ADHD. According to Dr. Russell Barkley, Ph.D., a trusted expert in ADHD, “ADHD can reduce life expectancy by as much as 13 years, but its risk is reversible.”
Many driven entrepreneurs have ADHD and don’t even realize it. Our natural creativity and willingness to take risks often mask our condition. Yet, untreated ADHD can sabotage the very communication and organizational skills needed to thrive. It would be beneficial for all of us to get tested. Try this free ADHD test to get started
Here are some common signs that you might have ADHD:
- Difficulty maintaining focus in conversations or meetings. Your mind drifts, or you interrupt unintentionally.
- Trouble with follow-through. You have dozens of exciting ideas, but struggle to complete projects.
- Impulsive decisions. You may jump into new ventures without weighing the risks.
- Disorganization and missed deadlines. Your inbox is overflowing, and you’re constantly putting out fires.
- Emotional volatility. Small frustrations escalate quickly, straining team and client relationships.
Left unchecked, ADHD can erode the trust and clear communication that successful entrepreneurship demands. That’s why getting tested is so important. A professional evaluation can give you clarity and open the door to evidence-based treatments and strategies that transform how you work and communicate. Knowledge is power; self-knowledge is gold.
Treatment isn’t just about medication; however, medication is a leading support (trust me, I know!) Treatments can also include coaching, therapy, and systems tailored to how your brain works, helping you harness your entrepreneurial drive without letting ADHD derail your goals, and worse, your life.
If these signs sound familiar, take the next step. Your future business success—and your peace of mind—may depend on it.
If you learn you have ADHD, don’t panic. I do too, and it’s why I created my podcast and more at WiseSquirrels.com. You can also join the Wise Squirrels Retreat, a small in-person weekend for late-diagnosed adults with ADHD. Spots are limited: wisesquirrels.com.
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