Currently, more than 15 million adults live with ADHD symptoms, and that number includes many company founders and young entrepreneurs. From time management to maintaining focus, the common side effects of ADHD can make it difficult to stay productive and move a business forward. But ADHD doesn't have to remain an obstacle. On the contrary, it can be an advantage.

Many well-regarded people who were diagnosed with ADHD have successfully transitioned to prominent roles. Comedian Trevor Noah is an example. Olympian Simone Biles is another. Astronaut Mark Kelly is also in the adult ADHD mix. Their stories (and those of others) prove that it is possible to turn ADHD into a positive. You just might need some helpful tips to get you started.

A great place to find strategies to increase your understanding of how to use your ADHD as one entrepreneurial superpower it is in the pages of books. By checking out innovative strategies and insights that have worked for other leaders, you can make ADHD your strongest ally and asset.

Related: 'Turned it all around': How this CEO conquered his ADHD using brain boosters

“May we have your attention, please?” by Laura MacNiven and J. Anne Bailey

Are you more of a hands-on type of learner who likes interactive books? Get a copy of this cleverly laid out new workbook provided by the Springboard Clinic. Designed to be an active learning resource, the guide is structured to help you chart your journey from wondering (and possibly worrying) to winning with ADHD.

What makes this book particularly refreshing is the use of four prototypical ADHD gifted characters to drive the narrative. Through their similar stories, you'll be able to see how they navigate their ADHD. At the same time, you will be are encouraged to take notes to get the most impact from this work. Best of all, you can move through the book at your own pace, allowing for maximum control, which is helpful if you lead a busy life.

Related: How managers can help employees with ADHD succeed in remote work

“ADHD: How to go from powerless professional to focused leader” by Gwendolyn Janssen

Released in 2023, this book was written by a health care professional whose ADHD and autism (she calls it AuDHD) weren't identified until her 30s. With honesty and compassion, she describes how confusing being neurodivergent can be. However, it also teaches readers who have ADHD how to identify and realize their potential.

If you've ever felt like you just haven't been able to reach your potential because of your ADHD, you'll find this work inspiring. As you move through the chapters, you'll be able to better understand how to tap into your brain's unique perspective. At the same time, you'll hear how Janssen was able to silence her inner critics and bring her best self forward.

“ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to Thriving (Mostly) with ADHD” by Penn Holderness, Kim Holderness, and Edward Hallowell

For a book on ADHD with a humorous twist, turn to this one the latest release. Just released in late 2024, it offers a fun and quick overview of ways to embrace your ADHD in a variety of situations. Perhaps the most intriguing element of this guide is that treating ADHD is so easy and matter-of-fact, making it a breeze to read.

As the book explains, restlessness can be a distinguishing characteristic of the ADHD leader. Therefore, you may find that your brain rests by being able to hear rather than visually understand thoughts.

Related: 6 tips to maximize productivity when you have ADHD

“Unapologetically ADHD: A Step-by-Step Framework for Daily Planning on Your Terms” by Nikki Kinzer and Pete D. Wright

Podcasters turned authors after that book at ADHD have decided to create a sort of game plan you can follow to master your mind. If you find it easier to move from one milestone to another, you will appreciate the layout of this guide.

When you need more structure in your life, just flip through the pages of Unapologetically ADHD. It even includes a comprehensive list of the tools you need in your ADHD “toolbox” to succeed in business and life. Consequently, you will have no excuse not to be your best self – and do your best. Be sure to share this book with others you know who might benefit from its suggestions.

Succeeding with Adult ADHD: Daily Strategies to Help You Achieve Your Goals and Manage Your Life by Abigail L. Levrini

Maybe you have goals, but you can't seem to ever move from naming them to claiming them. This book can help. Written by someone who has worked with ADHD adults for decades, it's a great planning resource guide. Levrin takes the time to succinctly move the reader through the process of self-discovery.

To keep your attention, this work contains many quizzes and practice activities. As a result, you'll feel a sense of momentum chapter after chapter. In other words, you won't get bored or lose interest. If you want a healthier relationship with your ADHD, this is a place to start.