ADHD and Polymathy: Turning Chaos into Creative Superpower (or at least trying to...)

Twenty years ago, there were no signs that I had an attention disorder. It made me wonder whether the current speed of information and innovation has caused it or if it developed naturally as I took on multiple roles—creative professional, startup founder, product designer, and manager of ever-larger teams. Navigating the creative world with ADHD and a polymath’s mindset can feel like walking a tightrope, but these traits bring unique challenges and opportunities that can either scatter your focus or ignite your creativity. Recently, I’ve decided to refocus on my creative career, prompting a deep introspection exercise while building my new brand.

ADHD is often seen as a bundle of distractibility and impulsivity. However, it can also be a source of out-of-the-box thinking and quick idea generation. The constant barrage of information from social media and the rapid pace of change in our world can exacerbate these traits, but they also push us to adapt and innovate. I believe my struggle to focus emerged not from within but from the world around me, transforming faster than I could keep up. The constant flow of new information, the pressure to keep developing new skills, and the incessant noise of social media have all contributed to this state.

Being a polymath means having a broad skill set and a thirst for knowledge across various fields. My attitude towards trying some context justification of my "problem," while trying to avoid generating "excuses" for my flaws, made me start looking for inspiration on how to channel these traits to become a better professional.

Historically, figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo showed us how integrating different disciplines can lead to extraordinary innovation. While we can't diagnose historical figures with modern conditions, their behaviors reflect traits we associate with ADHD and polymathy. Leonardo’s vast array of interests and constant pursuit of new knowledge allowed him to make connections that others could not see, leading to groundbreaking innovations in art, science, and engineering.

In today’s world, this approach is more relevant than ever. Take Steve Jobs. He drew from technology, design, and humanities to create products that changed our lives. His ability to synthesize concepts from different areas into groundbreaking products is something that inspires me daily. It’s about seeing connections where others see none and turning those into innovative solutions. Similarly, Elon Musk’s ventures span space exploration, sustainable energy, and transportation. His relentless pursuit of knowledge in diverse fields has driven innovations that shape our future.

Living with ADHD and a polymath mindset requires finding a balance. Here’s what I’m learning along the way:

• Structured Flexibility: A mix of routine and flexibility helps manage the chaos. Time-blocking and prioritizing tasks keep me on track while leaving room for spontaneous creativity. For instance, I dedicate mornings to structured work—designing, strategizing, and tackling critical tasks. Afternoons are more flexible, allowing time for brainstorming sessions, spontaneous creative bursts, or diving into new interests. This balance prevents burnout and keeps my creativity flowing.
• Cross-Disciplinary Thinking: Using knowledge from different fields helps solve problems in unique ways. This approach can lead to innovative solutions that others might miss. For example, my experience in product design often informs my branding strategies, allowing me to create cohesive and user-centric brand experiences. Similarly, insights from managing startups help me approach creative projects with a strategic, growth-oriented mindset.
• Escape Areas: Music and racing are my go-to escapes to calm my mind and improve focus. Playing guitar helps me channel my diverse interests into something productive, giving my mind a break from constant thinking and strategizing. Similarly, racing provides a structured yet thrilling environment where focus is paramount, and the rush of adrenaline clears my mind. These activities not only serve as a mental reset but also fuel my creativity. Some studies show other better techniques (which are not for me), like working out and meditating (my fast-paced mind activity will never let me do it, I tried).

Feedback from peers has been crucial. As one of my "gurus," Felipe Memoria , pointed out when I requested feedback after I shared my new website with him: having a broad focus can seem scattered, and that I'm all over the place—a hard truth. But I'm a great fan of "tough love."

Simplifying my message and honing in on a clear narrative has been key. Felipe's feedback made me realize the importance of clarity and coherence in my personal brand. While I haven’t fully transitioned yet, I’m exploring ways to streamline my message and focus on design—a field that lets me blend my creative and strategic skills while concentrating on one area of excellence.

But how do I transition from being very good at multiple things to being great at one? And how can I leverage my diverse skill set in this journey? These questions are at the forefront of my mind as I navigate this path.

I’m curious about your experiences. Maybe you can help me get the right answers and inspire me with more "real-life" examples than historical figures and celebrities. How do you balance multiple interests while focusing on excelling in one area? What strategies have you found effective? Let’s discuss and learn from each other’s journeys.

#ADHD #Polymath #CreativeLeadership #Innovation #PersonalBranding #CareerGrowth #CreativeChallenges #ProfessionalDevelopment