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ADHD
17 min read
25 quotes about ADHD — from funny to inspiring
Written by Bianca Deng
Published: Nov 22, 2024
Medically Reviewed by Klarity Editorial Team
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Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be a unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world. Finding words that resonate with your experiences can help give you a sense of connection and understanding.
In this article, we share 25 quotes about ADHD to help you put your daily struggles and achievements into words. These quotes come from ADHD experts, people with ADHD, and others who understand — and appreciate — the ADHD experience.
If you’re struggling with ADHD, don’t wait to get treatment. Find a provider on Klarity Health for ADHD treatment today.
25 quotes about ADHD
These 25 quotes reflect experiences with ADHD. They explore connecting with others, making choices, handling tasks, and ways of thinking.
Quotes 1–7: Positive quotes about ADHD
People excel at different things, including people with ADHD. And often, people with ADHD shine at creative thinking. A 2017 study in the Journal of Attention Disorders, led by Nathalie Boot, focused on creativity in adults with ADHD. During goal-focused tasks, these adults often generated more unique ideas than others in the study.
This connects to what some people with ADHD share about their experiences. They may notice stronger creative abilities in areas like art, problem-solving, or innovative thinking. When tasks match their natural thinking style, people often spot their strengths more easily.
“The ADHD brain is like a Ferrari engine with bicycle brakes.”
Many people with ADHD experience different energy levels and thinking styles. Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, speaks openly about having ADHD and how he approaches his work. In interviews, he describes finding ways to use his natural thinking style in running his companies.
Each person with ADHD has their own experience — some may think quickly, others might process information differently.
“ADHD is a difference in cognition, not a disorder.”
You may wonder why living with ADHD makes it hard to focus or why staying organized can be hard. Everyone has their strengths in different areas. Some manage tasks well using ADHD apps like Focus To-Do for concentration or Timelog for time management. Others may work better with visual guides or verbal instructions.
These varying approaches to handling tasks aren’t flaws. It’s the unique way your brain processes the world.
“ADHD is not a deficit of attention, but a wandering of attention to the most interesting nearby stimulus.”
Your mind moves toward things that catch your interest. When people think inattention is a symptom of ADHD, they’re missing how your curiosity leads you to notice new things.
Your attention isn’t broken. It flows to what excites you most. And your curiosity helps you discover ideas that others might miss.
“Your ADHD brain may not follow the usual path, but it can lead you to remarkable places.”
Different thinking patterns for people with ADHD can lead to varied ideas and problem-solving approaches. Some people with ADHD consider multiple perspectives or explore different possibilities when working through situations. Their thinking styles can contribute to finding creative solutions.
“‘ADHD’ is a term that describes a way of being in the world. It is neither entirely a disorder nor entirely an asset. It is an array of traits specific to a unique kind of mind. It can become a distinct advantage or an abiding curse, depending on how a person manages it.”
Everyone moves at their own pace and finds their way forward. Bill Gates didn’t follow the usual path. He dropped out of Harvard to follow his passion. His ADHD traits became his strengths, like rocking in his chair while coding for hours. He created a work style that matched his needs, leading to Microsoft’s success.
Like Gates, your path may look different, and that’s okay. Each step you take moves you forward. You’re doing things your way, and that’s what matters.
“Success with ADHD is not about overcoming the condition, but about finding strategies that work for you.”
ADHD can lead to distinct ways of processing daily life. Each person’s mind works with its natural patterns. Some methods click right away, while valuable approaches surface through experience. Natural strengths often emerge when people explore what works for them.
Quotes 8–11: ADHD quotes about relating to others
“Your ADHD brain may process social cues differently, and that’s okay. You bring unique energy and creativity to relationships.”
You’re unique. Your way of connecting with people has its gifts. You notice small details others miss, share excitement about topics you love, and think up creative solutions that help solve problems in friendships and other relationships.
“Having ADHD doesn’t mean you’re a bad friend. You might show care differently, which makes your friendships special.”
Living with ADHD and ADHD forgetfulness, You might miss responding to friends sometimes. You may worry this makes you a bad friend, but it doesn’t. You instead remember tiny details about topics friends love or notice when they feel down before anyone else does. True friends see and value how much you care.
“ADHD minds might process conversations differently — sometimes jumping ahead, sometimes needing extra time. Both ways of connecting are valid.”
People with ADHD may process conversations at different speeds. Some might quickly jump to conclusions or finish others’ sentences because their minds are already steps ahead. Others might need additional time to organize their thoughts in discussions. Both patterns are natural ways people with ADHD handle social interactions.
“ADHD minds often have great empathy and passion for others. These qualities can create deep, meaningful relationships.”
People with ADHD may be deeply aware of other people’s feelings and very caring. Some notice subtle changes in feelings or social situations in ways that can enrich conversations and relationships. It may show up as catching shifts in mood when talking to others or picking up on unspoken social cues.
Quotes 12–17: quotes about ADHD and impulsivity
“Impulsivity can lead to surprises, and with a pause, those surprises can turn into opportunities.”
People experience ADHD differently. Some may notice patterns linked to impulsive ADHD symptoms, which can include speaking before others finish a conversation or making quick decisions without considering outcomes. Others might join activities without waiting for their turn.
During intense emotions, some find that a brief pause — even 30 seconds — helps them process strong feelings.
“Impulsivity is not your enemy; learning how to pause before reacting is the key to using it to your advantage.”
Each person with ADHD experiences impulsivity differently. Some may find their fast thinking leads to new ideas, while others use this quickness to spot unique connections that others might miss. By getting to know these natural patterns, what looks like acting without thinking may become a special strength.
“Your ADHD brain is full of energy, and impulsivity is just part of how you explore the world differently.”
Your brain may always be active and ready to explore. When you get excited about something, you may jump right in. That can be a unique talent that helps you try new things and discover what you love.
“Managing ADHD isn’t about controlling everything. It’s about understanding when to act and when to pause.”
Managing priorities rather than every detail can help some people manage ADHD symptoms. Rather than trying to control every situation, many find understanding their response patterns helpful.
“Rapid decisions might occur with ADHD. Understanding personal patterns opens various possibilities.”
People with ADHD may notice different patterns in how they make decisions. Some find themselves making quick choices — like instantly solving problems. Others prefer taking time to think things through. Understanding these personal patterns helps some people with ADHD recognize when faster or slower decisions work better.
“ADHD may involve different speeds of information processing and choice-making.”
People with ADHD process information and make decisions at their own pace. Some may quickly grasp certain ideas while taking more time with others. One person may make swift choices in familiar situations but need extra time for new ones. This variety in thinking and the speed of decision-making is a natural part of how ADHD shows up differently for each person.
Quotes 18–21: ADHD quotes about prioritizing
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step.”
Large projects can be approached in different ways. Starting with 1 part is a possible approach. Breaking down tasks into steps may help make the project more manageable.
“Every small task you complete is a victory. Your path doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s.”
Everyone’s journey with ADHD is unique and valid. Whether crossing off items on your to-do list or using your rhythm for daily tasks, each accomplishment matters. Celebrating these personal victories isn’t just about marking progress. It’s about recognizing that your path is yours to define.
“Having different priorities doesn’t mean your priorities are wrong. Your brain processes importance uniquely — and that’s okay.”
If you have ADHD, your brain may sort tasks differently than other people’s brains. What feels important to you may not be what others pick first — but that’s true of everyone. Having different priorities isn’t wrong. It’s your unique way of thinking.
“Think of prioritizing as a skill you’re developing, just like learning to ride a bike. It takes practice, and that’s perfectly normal.”
ADHD involves unique cognitive patterns that influence how people approach activities. Focus and prioritization may shift across different contexts. Over time, people with ADHD often discover — and capitalize on — approaches that align with their natural thinking style.
Quotes 22–25: quotes about ADHD and irritability
“Sometimes, irritability is just your brain asking for a break. Step away, take a breath, and come back with a clearer mind.”
People with ADHD may experience what’s called ADHD rage. It’s an intense reaction that may occur during repetitive tasks or switching activities. The brain may signal through irritability when it needs a pause. Some find ways to handle these moments through movement, while others prefer quiet time or breathing patterns.
“Irritability is often a sign you’re feeling overwhelmed. Take a moment to breathe and give yourself the space to calm down.”
People with ADHD may experience irritation during busy situations, such as when confronted with a lot of noise, multiple tasks, or many requests at once. Such reactions are a normal part of dealing with ADHD.
“When emotions feel intense, remember this is your brain’s way of processing — not a personal failing. Take a pause. It’s a sign you need a break, not a sign of weakness.”
Taking breaks is a necessary way for anyone to manage emotions and situations. Pauses can also help you practice self-compassion.
“Having strong emotions means you feel deeply — and that can be a strength when you learn to channel it.”
Some people with ADHD can experience strong emotions from time to time. For some, those strong feelings can be an advantage and help spark different perspectives or unique ways of seeing things.
How to apply ADHD quotes to your daily life
Quotes can resonate at different moments. Here are some ways to fit quotes about ADHD into your everyday life.
Place quotes in visible areas
Put your favorite quotes in places where you see them often. A quote on your mirror can help lift your mood in the morning. ADHD quotes on your phone screen can remind you to stay positive and motivated. One on your desk can give you a boost when you’re working.
Memorize quotes for challenging moments
A simple phrase may help you during stressful moments. When you feel overwhelmed, positive words can help you remember to breathe.
Share quotes with loved ones or in support groups
Sharing quotes that inspire you or help explain how ADHD makes you unique can strengthen connections and improve understanding with others. You can send a favorite quote to a friend or share it in a support group. It shows others what you’re going through in a way that’s easy to understand. It can also help you bond with others who are feeling the same way.
If you’re looking for more tools for ADHD, check out 9 ADHD organization tools for time management and ADHD apps.
Get ADHD support from providers on Klarity Health
ADHD quotes can help you feel understood, but working with an ADHD specialist is key for managing your symptoms. Find a licensed ADHD provider on Klarity Health and have an appointment as little as 24 hours.* Your provider can help you with diagnosis, a treatment plan tailored for you that may include medication if medically necessary.
Frequently asked questions
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.
If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.
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100 Broadway Street, Redwood City CA, 94063
If you’re having an emergency or in emotional distress, here are some resources for immediate help: Emergency: Call 911. National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call 988. Crisis Text Line: Text Home to 741-741
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