What can we learn from the stories of celebrities and public figures with ADHD, and how can we apply those lessons to our own lives?
Celebrities across business, sports and entertainment have shared their ADHD diagnosis. They include, Richard Branson- one of the most successful businessmen in England, Michael Phelps- The most decorated Olympian in history, Simone Biles- the most decorated Gymnast in history, Jamie Oliver, Emma Watson, Johnny Depp, Adam Levine, Will.i.am, and Justin Timberlake. This shows the other side of ADHD, the energy, the creativity, that once channelled well, becomes almost a Superpower!
These stories show that ADHD does not have to stop you from reaching your goals. With the right mindset, support, and strategies, it can become a source of energy, creativity, and resilience. People and families who understood ADHD found ways to make it a positive part of their lives.
Here are some important lessons:
1. The Drive to Prove Others Wrong
Many people with ADHD felt motivated to prove others wrong. When teachers doubted them or classmates dismissed them, they used that drive to achieve success.
Lesson: Not everyone will feel the same level of commitment, but with encouragement and the right support, people with ADHD can use their inner drive in school, work, or personal goals.
2. Focusing on Strengths
A common theme is that people with ADHD, or their families, noticed their natural strengths in areas like sports, creativity, or business and built on them. These strengths often became the foundation of their careers.
Lesson: Having ADHD does not mean you lack ability. It means finding what you are good at and focusing on it, while making sure you have the support to help those strengths grow.
3. Finding Solutions and Planning Ahead
People with ADHD often find creative, practical solutions when they face challenges. The most successful stories show that planning, even with help from others, is key to turning ideas into results.
Lesson: Encourage planning. Taking small, organized steps can help turn ADHD traits into success.
4. Turning Weaknesses Into Strengths
Dave Farrow struggled with ADHD, but he became a world record holder in memory recall. His story shows that weaknesses can become strengths with persistence and the right approach.
Lesson: Weaknesses do not define you. With patience, effort, and the right techniques, they can become your greatest strengths.
5. Age is no barrier
These stories include people of all ages, from children to adults diagnosed later in life. Some authors were diagnosed in their 40s and still found success as writers.
Lesson: It is never too late. Whether you are diagnosed early or later in life, there are always chances to grow, improve, and achieve.
The Bigger Picture
These lessons are not just for celebrities. They are for anyone with ADHD. Whether you have ADHD or support someone who does, moving forward means understanding, adapting, and taking action.
Knowing these lessons is not enough. The real difference comes from using them every day. With patience, self-confidence, and the right support, people with ADHD can overcome challenges and thrive. Being different is not a disadvantage; it can be an advantage.
About the Author
Dr Hatem El-Emam is a GP with a special interest in ADHD. Coming from a Neurodiverse family, he is an advocate for early identification and management of ADHD. He firmly believes that with the correct understanding and proper support, ADHD energy and creativity can be turned into a strength.
References
(2025). ADHD success stories. Understood.org. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-success-stories
(2025). The role of psychological strengths in positive life outcomes in adults with ADHD. Psychological Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291725001232
(December 18, 2025). Rewriting the ADHD Narrative: Success Stories That Inspire Change. American SPCC. https://americanspcc.org/rewriting-the-adhd-narrative-success-stories-that-inspire-change/
(July 29, 2016). Dave Farrow – ideacity – Guinness Record for Greatest Memory. ideacity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xi7RtnDGleQ
Black, R. (June 7, 2021). A Novel, She Wrote — Despite Her ADHD. ADDitude Magazine. https://www.additudemag.com/a-novel-she-wrote-despite-her-add/