Four years ago we congratulated Michael Phelps on his amazing Olympic medal sweep. This year we are again celebrating him as the most decorated ADHD Olympic medalist in history.
Hold on a minute! Michael Phelps is indeed an American hero. However, wouldn’t it be nice to stop hearing that he achieved this victory in spite of having ADHD?
No one wants a label attached to their name. Do you think that Phelps thinks of himself as an ADHD hero or an Olympic hero? Yep, we thought so.
Yes, labels can be helpful in understanding our strengths and weaknesses. But it’s important to remember, EVERYONE has strengths and weaknesses. We all are capable of accomplishing great things.
You don’t have to be a Michael Phelps in order to feel proud of yourself and your accomplishments. All you need to do is to set goals for yourself and work like the dickens to make them a reality. And yes, having a coach helps. For no matter how motivated you are, there will be days you don’t want to get into the pool or do that extra lap.
So this time around while you are celebrating with Michael Phelps, visualize all of the hard work, dedication and commitment it took him to get there. And you can bet that ADHD contributed to his success, one way or another.
Zac Davis
Few youngsters with ADHD take medicines to help manage their difficulties, and some parents implement behavioral therapy to manage the condition. Sports can be a great ADHD help since it becomes an outlet for their energy and can also help to enhance their self-esteem.