“Both the chef and the journalist can focus intensely when they are doing something that genuinely interests them. The rest of the time, focusing is a challenge. I have heard similar stories from other people with ADHD who work as programmers, car mechanics and marketing execs. They all describe facing an uphill battle in school and how, once they found their calling, they could suddenly put their hyperfocus to good use—something they had previously only experienced in front of the computer or TV. When they are truly interested, they don’t just move up one extra gear but two. Suddenly, their ability to concentrate is even better than that of a person without ADHD. The individuals I’m describing haven’t become successful in their professions despite having ADHD; they have become successful thanks to it.”