Motivation in ADHD

In the past, ADHD was often considered an issue of laziness, and both a lack of willpower or drive and procrastination were seen as hallmarks. We now understand those characterizations to be inappropriate. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by brain-based differences impacting the ability to get oneself to do what one needs or wants to do. Successful interventions to support motivation for individuals with ADHD work with the ADHD brain instead of against it . To this end, coaches and therapists can explain to clients both the dopamine reward pathways in the brain and common ADHD challenges with motivation. Building on this understanding, clients can experiment with varied hooks to jumpstart motivation for the ADHD brain: novelty, interest, stimulation, urgency, saliency, emotions, and relationships. An improved understanding and awareness, coupled with experimentation, can help an adult with ADHD develop a menu of successful strategies to call on when boosting motivation or follow-through is needed. A focus on brain-based approaches to increasing motivation also supports the adult with ADHD in finding self-acceptance, self-efficacy, and, ultimately, hoped-for growth and improved well-being.