You're Not Lazy—Understanding ADHD and the Myth of Motivation

You stare at your to-do list. One task. Just one. You know it's important. You want to get it done. And yet, you find yourself scrolling, cleaning out the junk drawer, or deep-diving into some random topic. By the end of the day, the task remains untouched, and you're left with a familiar pit of guilt in your stomach.

"Why can't I just do the thing?"

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. And you're definitely not lazy.

The Myth: ADHD is a Motivation Problem Many women—especially those diagnosed later in life—have been conditioned to believe that their struggles with follow-through mean they're lazy or undisciplined. But the truth is far more complex and compassionate.

According to Dr. William Dodson, a leading expert on ADHD, the condition doesn't involve a lack of motivation. Instead, it's about a unique kind of motivation: one that is interest-based, not task-based.

The Science Behind It Dr. Russell Barkley, a world-renowned researcher in ADHD, reframes the disorder as one of self-regulation, not attention. ADHD affects executive function—the brain's management system that governs things like impulse control, task initiation, emotional regulation, and time awareness.

In other words, your brain isn't broken. It's just wired to engage differently.

When someone with ADHD is interested in a task, they can enter a hyperfocused, productive state. But when a task feels boring or disconnected from personal interest or urgency, the brain struggles to engage.

This is not a failure of character. It's a neurological difference.

Real-Life Example + Tool Let’s say you need to write a report, but it bores you stiff. Instead of muscling through it, try pairing it with something stimulating: light a candle you love, play instrumental music, or start by writing one sentence while sipping your favorite tea. Even better, begin your work session with a task that does interest you, like designing a quick Canva graphic, then ride that momentum into the report.

Ellen Littman, Ph.D., recommends designing your environment and your routine to feed your brain’s dopamine circuit. Let interest lead, not just obligation.

Takeaway You’re not broken, lazy, or unmotivated. You’re just wired differently—and brilliantly.

When we start to view ADHD through the lens of neuroscience and self-compassion, everything shifts. We stop blaming ourselves and start working with our brains instead of against them.

If this resonated, share it with a friend who needs to hear it today. And if you’re ready to stop shaming yourself and start thriving with ADHD, let’s connect—my coaching might be the next right step for you. Click Here to Schedule

Inspired by: Dr. Russell Barkley, Dr. William Dodson, and Dr. Ellen Littman