I assume this time the article title surprised you... If so, I’ve decided to step away from the usual concept of offering tips for better project management in the fields of construction, operations, and infrastructure and instead focus on something a bit unconventional.
In an article I read discussing the positive link between ADHD and effective management of complex projects, I could personally relate to this observation. While some may disagree with a generalized assessment like this, and say it’s unfair to managers, as with anything in life, the individual does not necessarily represent the whole.
So, how can ADHD actually be an advantage in managing complex projects that require a high level of integration and constant creativity to ensure everything works in maximum synchronization?
Managing complex projects demands creativity, high intelligence, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously—all of which give individuals with ADHD a variety of advantages in the workforce in general and in the construction and infrastructure sectors in particular. You might be surprised, but doctors, producers, entrepreneurs, contractors, military leaders, and athletes are just some examples of professions suited to individuals with ADHD.
ADHD is one of the most prominent issues of our generation. Unfortunately, public and medical discourse is focused on “correcting” this condition in childhood, pushing various medications on our youth to make them more focused, essentially diminishing one of their strongest assets. This discourse rarely acknowledges the strengths that individuals with ADHD possess, especially in the workforce.
For example, professions such as brokers, managers, producers, leaders, artists, athletes, and military commanders in the IDF are just a few examples where individuals can benefit from the strengths associated with ADHD. ADHD enables multitasking, or what we commonly refer to as “multitasking.” Additionally, people with ADHD often enjoy heightened creativity, higher intelligence, and an enhanced ability to perform well under pressure.
It’s important to note that while there are significant advantages, there are also disadvantages. As with everything in life, it’s essential to weigh these factors and recognize the benefits of managers of this kind in the workforce.
For example, let’s consider contractors. Contracting work requires multi-task management of people and processes, all under the pressure of deadlines for promised deliverables to clients.
Advantages: In renovations, where the outcome is often unknown in advance, their creativity is invaluable for finding solutions to unexpected situations. Deadlines sharpen their focus, and you’ll benefit from their flexibility and ability to move from project to project.
Disadvantages: They may take on too many projects and misjudge their capacity to handle the workload. Since experience is irreplaceable, if you are such a manager, develop the habit of consulting with your team. Financial management may also present a challenge, so equip yourself with an excellent accountant to handle the details.
Another example is entrepreneurs. Many individuals with ADHD have naturally gravitated toward entrepreneurship, and their representation in this field is notably high.
Advantages: For entrepreneurs, ADHD is an asset rather than a liability. Their impulsivity and intuition often translate into quick and high-quality decision-making, and their tendency to speak directly becomes a managerial style. Difficulty focusing pushes them to advance along several parallel paths that fuel one another, and their flights of thought turn into creative insights.
Disadvantages: While ADHD entrepreneurs often have great ideas, they may struggle to manage even a small business. A way to mitigate these challenges is to work with a professional team, seek support from a consultant or coach, and have a good administrative assistant to fill in the gaps in weaker areas.
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