Everyday, we are learning more about ADHD. Quickly, it is moving from being a disabling mental illness to being recognized for the set of genetic traits it truly is. Previously, we discussed the long list of celebrities and superstars with ADHD. ADHD traits, when harnessed, provide the drive and persistence necessary for success. Mike “The Mout” Matusow’s story illustrates this fact. Mike Matusow is a famous poker player who has stated he has ADHD and Bi-Polar. Mike Matusow provides a true glimpse into the life of someone living with these conditions. He recently published an autobiography entitled Check-Raising the Devil.
This article puts emphasis on my own struggle with ADHD. I have been working on this article since June. By no means does this diminsh the importance of Mike Matusow’s revelation. When I was first diagnosed, ADHD was seen as a disability. I was advised not to tell anyone of my diagnosis. This was just a few short years ago. ADHD is still seen by many as a disability, however, celebrities openly talking about their ADHD diagnosis is changing the tide. People have started realizing that ADHD is not a disability. An ADHD diagnosis is not a sentence to a mediocre life.
ADHD actually provides traits and skills that can aide in success. I am sure that Mike Matusow would explain how his need for stimulation and challenge aides his poker career. The fast paced game of skill provides his mind with a challenge. The challenge of analytically looking at your cards, your player’s reactions and body language, and making bets accordingly. While many would look at this career and see only risk and certain ruin, ADHD allows Mike Matusow to see the benefits and how to obtain these benefits.
Mike Matusow is just one successful person living with ADHD. There are many celebrities thriving with ADHD. Some even attribute their success to ADHD. Ty Pennington is very open about his diagnosis and how ADHD has given him the traits to be successful. He is not a minority other successful and famous people with ADHD includes Sir Richard Branson, Will Smith, Bill Gates, etc.
I want readers to take a few lessons away from this post. For anyone living with ADHD, your attitude will set your future. If you believe that you are disabled then you are. For anyone not living with ADHD, we are not disabled, we think differently, we do not register risk the same way, but we are not disabled.
Links to additional stories about Mike Matusow:
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