If you have ADHD, you likely know just how funky it can make your brain sometimes.
While it’s got plenty of upsides too, this form of neurodivergence often sees your thoughts circulating some not-so-true ideas about who you are and how you function in the world. These lies can be sneaky, and if you believe them, they can seriously hold you back. Here are some of the most common ones—and the truth that sets you free.
1. “You’re just lazy.”
One of the biggest lies ADHD tells you is that you’re lazy because you struggle to start or finish tasks. In reality, you’re not lazy—you’re just dealing with a brain that has trouble with motivation, focus, and executive function. The effort it takes you to get things done often exceeds what other people even realise. Give yourself credit!
2. “You should be able to do this by now.”
Whether it’s keeping a tidy space, managing time, or remembering appointments, ADHD loves to whisper that you *should* have it all figured out. But progress isn’t linear, and it’s okay to still be working on things. You’re not behind; you’re learning in your own way and time.
3. “Everyone else is managing life better than you.”
It might seem like everyone else is breezing through life while you’re in a constant whirlwind. But the truth is, everyone has struggles—you just might not see them. Comparing yourself to other people is unfair because you don’t have the same brain, challenges, or path. Your journey is valid.
4. “You’ll never be organised.”
Staying organised can feel like a battle you’ll never win, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Your ADHD might make traditional methods tricky, but you can still find systems that work for *you*. Maybe it’s colourful reminders, digital apps, or a bit of creative chaos. Organisation is personal, not a one-size-fits-all.
5. “If you can’t do it perfectly, don’t bother.”
This lie keeps you stuck in procrastination and fear of failure. ADHD can make perfectionism hit hard, making you feel like if it’s not flawless, it’s pointless. But getting things done “good enough” is better than not doing them at all. Progress, no matter how imperfect, still counts.
6. “You’re too easily distracted to succeed.”
Sure, distractions can derail you, but that doesn’t mean success is off the table. Many people with ADHD are creative, innovative, and thrive in fast-paced environments. Your ability to think in tangents can be a superpower, not a setback. Success isn’t about eliminating distractions—it’s about working with them.
7. “You’re always going to disappoint people.”
Missed deadlines, forgotten texts, or last-minute cancellations might make you feel like you’re letting everyone down. But people who care about you understand that these aren’t personal failings. You’re not a disappointment—you’re a human managing a challenging brain. Real friends get it.
8. “You don’t deserve a break.”
ADHD can make you feel like you haven’t done “enough” to earn a rest. But your brain is working overtime, even if it doesn’t feel productive. Breaks aren’t rewards; they’re essential. You deserve rest, downtime, and moments to recharge—no productivity quota required.
9. “You’ll never finish what you start.”
ADHD brains love novelty, which means starting things can be easy, while finishing them is another story. But that doesn’t mean you *never* finish. You’ve completed plenty of things, even if your brain downplays them. Celebrate the wins, big and small, and keep chipping away at the rest.
10. “You can’t trust yourself.”
When you forget things, miss deadlines, or lose track of time, it can feel like you’re unreliable. But ADHD doesn’t make you untrustworthy. It just means you need systems and strategies to support you. With the right tools, you can rely on yourself more than you realise.
11. “You’re too much for people.”
Talking fast, having big emotions, or getting excited about random things might make you feel like you’re overwhelming everyone. But the right people love your energy and enthusiasm. You’re not too much—you’re just the right amount for those who appreciate you.
12. “You’ll always fail at adulting.”
Bills, appointments, chores—sometimes it feels like “adulting” is a skill you missed out on. But everyone struggles with this stuff, not just people with ADHD. You might need different strategies, reminders, or a little help, but that doesn’t mean you’re failing. You’re figuring it out, and that’s enough.
13. “You’re faking it.”
Imposter syndrome loves to whisper that your ADHD is just an excuse. But you’re not faking anything. Your struggles and experiences are real, and they matter. Just because some days are easier than others doesn’t mean you’re pretending. Your challenges are valid.
14. “You can’t change.”
ADHD might make change feel impossible, but growth is always within reach. You’re not stuck the way you are forever. New habits, new strategies, and new ways of thinking are all possible. Change might take time and effort, but you’re capable of it—more than you know.
