To Hell with Executive Functioning
I often hear that ADHD means we lack executive function. But what does that even mean? And is it really true? In this episode, we'll take a hard look at this phrase—and explore how ADHDers actually operate, and why that ruffles some feathers.
The way we approach tasks might look different—but it's far from dysfunctional. If we shift our perspective on the awful phrase "executive function" and let go of limiting labels, we can unlock new ways of working with our natural brilliance.
ADHDers are often mischaracterized as "lacking executive function," but I hate this phrase so much. In reality, it's society's expectations that are out of sync with how we operate.
We don't lack executive function—we're just not functioning the way authority figures prefer: how they learned, how they were praised and rewarded. When we're told we lack executive function, it's like someone's saying the top of our heads is missing [giggle]—as if we have no capacity to function at all.
But let's be real—ADHDers are mind-body geniuses.
We're actually more aware of the needs and natural flow of our minds and bodies. It's not that we can't focus—it's that we're in tune with what we need in the moment, whether it's shifting tasks, moving our bodies, or tending to an emotional need.
Our focus follows flow, not force.
What society calls "lacking executive function" is often just our mind-body intelligence in action.
Yes, we can force ourselves to sit still when we need to move. We can ignore the urge to switch gears to get unstuck. We can stop ourselves from expressing emotion. But why would we silence that inner wisdom?
We live in a world that's long ignored our insights, solutions, and early warning signals. Why would we continue to ignore ourselves, too?
People pay good money to work with mind-body doctors and practitioners—and yet here we are, being talked out of what we do naturally.
We may task-hop—but that's part of our mind-body self-care and creative process.
When I write, I sometimes get restless. Instead of forcing myself to stay at the desk, I listen to my body's need for movement or a change of pace. Sometimes I switch to a craft project, journal, or plane a piece of driftwood in the shop—and that's often when the breakthrough idea for my writing happens.
It's not that I lack executive function—I'm simply in tune with what sustains my focus organically.
Our bodies hold deep wisdom through the unconscious mind, which has access to way more information than our conscious thoughts. When we follow those subtle signals—rather than muscling through—we tap into a far more powerful intelligence.
This is just one more way ADHD "deficits" are often sophisticated forms of somatic awareness.
I remember an office job I had once. While others stayed glued to their desks, I'd sneak off to the warehouse to help with the work there. It wasn't part of my job description—but the movement and variety sparked new ideas and helped me stay creatively energized.
Also? We execute daily functions all the time: eating, showering, brushing teeth, getting dressed. ADHDers are executing life every single day.
The problem isn't that we lack executive function—it's that we've been taught to ignore our inner guidance and the natural rhythm that moves our intentions forward.
Honestly? The real lack of executive function might just be in the systems and expectations that don't align with the brilliance of a well-oiled mind-body system.