Do you avoid doing something yourself out of fear you’ll do it wrong? Or are you so used to others doing everything for you that you don’t take action at all? Independence is both a learned skill and a personality trait. Some people are innately independent; others need more guidance. Humans have sought independence for centuries, and when harnessed it can do great things, but it’s best in balance. Too independent or too reliant, and you may suffer.
A staggering trend
Historically, becoming independent was almost a birthright. Yet in recent years fewer twenty-somethings are launching, instead returning home as “boomerang kids,” with “failure to launch” a common phrase. Add ADHD to the mix and launching gets even harder. So what can set the next generation up for success?
Know your makeup
Being independent is both a personality trait and an essential life skill. If it’s not naturally your personality, you can’t just throw up your hands and say “not my thing”, the bills still need paying. The good news is that independence, as a skill, can be developed. That starts with honest self-assessment across the key areas that support it, so you can see where you’re strong and where you lean too heavily on others.
Growing it with ADHD
For the ADHD brain, independence grows through supports, not willpower alone: external structure, clear next steps, and strategies that trigger awareness before avoidance takes over. Instead of cursing symptoms, you build scaffolding that lets you carry your own share and take control of your life, while still asking for help where it genuinely serves you.
You can grow into more. There is power in your wiring, and you are worthy of living ADHD uplifted.
View this uPLifted issue in its original magazine-style layout.
