Leaning Into ADHD: Why Self-Acceptance Is the Start of Real Change
By Robert Rackley, MSc MIACP | The Neurodivergent Psychotherapist
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Discover what it means to lean into ADHD — shifting from self-criticism to self-understanding. Written by ADHD specialist psychotherapist Robert Rackley, this article explores how embracing your neurodivergence can lead to real progress and emotional wellbeing.
When the Goal Is to “Fix It”
For many adults, an ADHD diagnosis brings an initial sense of relief — followed quickly by pressure to do better.
To focus more.
To be more productive.
To finally become “normal.”
But trying to fix ADHD often leads to the same cycle of exhaustion that got you here in the first place.
Because ADHD isn’t something broken that needs repairing — it’s a different way of processing, feeling, and engaging with the world.
What It Means to Lean Into ADHD
Leaning into ADHD means shifting the question from
“How can I be less ADHD?”
to
“How can I work with my ADHD brain, not against it?”
It’s about understanding your wiring — the things your brain does instinctively well, even if they don’t fit traditional standards of success.
When you start to lean in, you begin noticing that ADHD isn’t just about challenges; it also comes with powerful strengths.
The Hidden Strengths of ADHD
💡 Hyperfocus — When interest meets passion, ADHD brains can sustain deep, creative focus that others envy.
🎨 Creativity — Seeing connections, patterns, and solutions others miss.
💬 Sensitivity — Feeling deeply allows for empathy, insight, and emotional intelligence.
✨ Intuition — Making sense of situations instinctively, often before logic catches up.
When these traits are recognised and supported, they stop being liabilities — and start becoming your greatest assets.
Why Acceptance Isn’t Giving Up
Accepting ADHD isn’t about lowering expectations.
It’s about aligning them with how your brain actually functions.
Therapy often helps people make this shift — from frustration and shame to self-understanding.
When you stop fighting your brain, you start freeing up energy to live more fully.
True progress doesn’t come from trying to become less ADHD.
It comes from learning to live well as an ADHD person.
A Final Thought
You don’t need to fix your ADHD — you need to understand it.
Leaning in is the moment you stop trying to change who you are and start discovering how to thrive as yourself.