Shifting Gears: ADHD-Powered Problem Solving

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Feb 6, 2025

Life's curveballs can be tricky, especially for those with ADHD. This discussion dives into the unique strengths and challenges of ADHD-powered problem-solving. Creatively tackling unconventional issues often coexists with emotional overwhelm and perfectionism. Practical strategies help identify true problems, emphasize self-compassion, and illustrate the power of verbal processing. They explore how accepting that plans can change unlocks resilience, and they share insights that encourage patience and grace in navigating life's unpredictabilities.

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INSIGHT

ADHD Problem-Solving Paradox

ADHD brains excel at solving unconventional problems due to creativity and hyperfocus.
However, they struggle with all-or-nothing thinking, emotional overwhelm, and needing more processing time.

ANECDOTE

Daughter's Car Accident

Nikki Kinzer's daughter, trained medically, confidently handled a car accident until the other driver mentioned calling the police.
This shift from medicine to law, outside her expertise, caused her composure to falter.

ADVICE

Overcoming Crisis Paralysis

Increase competence in areas causing crisis shutdowns to build confidence.
If the law overwhelms you in traffic accidents, study traffic accident procedures.

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What happens when life throws you off course? The meeting runs late, the pipes freeze, or the day crumbles before it even begins. For most people, problem-solving is instinctive. For those with ADHD, however, it’s a far more complex process—one filled with creativity, frustration, and unpredictability.

This week, Nikki and Pete explore the unique challenges and strengths of ADHD-powered problem-solving. The ADHD brain can shine in adversity, using creativity and hyperfocus to tackle unconventional problems. But it also struggles with all-or-nothing thinking, freezing under pressure, emotional overwhelm, and the need for more time to process situations.

Nikki and Pete offer practical strategies to navigate these challenges. Start by clearly identifying the problem without spiraling into blame or “what-ifs.” Ask yourself: Is this my problem to solve? Often, the stress you carry isn’t yours to fix. Once you know the answer, reframe and readjust—communicate, prioritize, and take action, no matter how small.

The episode also emphasizes mindset shifts. Acceptance isn’t giving up; it’s understanding that plans change and perfection is unattainable. Letting go of unnecessary blame and giving yourself grace are keys to moving forward. Nikki and Pete share insights from Dr. Edward Hallowell and discuss the importance of pausing to regulate emotions before tackling problems.

Finally, they highlight the power of talking it out. Verbal processing can help you hear your thoughts, shift your perspective, and uncover solutions you didn’t see before.

This is just the beginning. Next week, Nikki and Pete will dive into decision-making, showing you how to choose wisely, even in chaos. For now, this episode is your guide to shifting gears, embracing your ADHD brain, and solving problems with creativity and resilience.

Links & Notes

(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(01:06) - Support the Show: Become a Patron!
(02:22) - Problem-Solving
(21:44) - This quote is from CrazyBusy by Dr. Hallowell. We found it after the fact.

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