ADHD Doesn't Cause Your Money Problems: Unpacking the Real Culprits

Recently, a question popped up in our Facebook group that really got me thinking. How common is it for those of us with ADHD to struggle with finances? The answer is, sadly, very common. But I've got a hot take for you: ADHD is not the root cause of your money problems. 

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ADHD is Fuel, Not Fire

Here's the deal. ADHD might complicate your financial life; it may add some lighter fluid to the bonfire, but it didn't strike the match. If you're looking to understand the root of your financial chaos, you might want to dig into your childhood and family history. Money psychology research backs me up on this one.

Inherited Financial Philosophies

Your core beliefs and philosophies about money were probably shaped long before ADHD came into the picture. If you were lucky enough to be raised by parents who were financial wizards, teaching you the value of a buck and the magic of compounding interest, chances are, those lessons stuck.

Sure, ADHD can still mess with you. It can make you disorganized, cause you to procrastinate, and lead to late payments. But if your foundational beliefs about money are strong, ADHD won't be able to wreak total havoc.

 Undiagnosed ADHD in the Family

However, let's not totally let ADHD off the hook here. If you come from a long line of family members with undiagnosed ADHD, there's a chance that your "money mess" is generational. That's a different beast altogether.

 

 Variables, Variables, Variables

At the end of the day, there are a ton of variables at play. You've got your childhood influences, your family history, and yes, ADHD's role in complicating things. But the good news? Awareness is the first step to making positive changes.

If you're struggling with managing your money and you've got ADHD, don't just blame the disorder and call it a day. Take a deep dive into your history, understand your money philosophies, and build from there. Once you know the real culprits behind your financial struggles, you can start to make meaningful changes.

And remember, you're not alone. Many are walking this tightrope of ADHD and financial management. The key is to not lose your balance by understanding the different winds that might be trying to knock you over.

 

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