Faster Than Normal

What's "Faster Than Normal" about?

• Focus on ADHD as a Gift: "Faster Than Normal" by Peter Shankman explores how ADHD can be a unique advantage rather than a disadvantage, offering insights into how individuals with ADHD can harness their fast-paced brains for success.
• Personal Experiences: The author shares his personal journey with ADHD, detailing how it has contributed to his achievements in business and life.
• Practical Strategies: The book provides practical strategies and life hacks for managing ADHD effectively, emphasizing the importance of structure, routine, and self-awareness.
• Inspiration and Empowerment: It aims to inspire and empower those with ADHD to embrace their differences and use them to their advantage.

Why should I read "Faster Than Normal"?

• Empowerment for ADHD Individuals: If you or someone you know has ADHD, this book offers a positive perspective and practical advice on leveraging ADHD traits for success.
• Unique Insights: Peter Shankman provides unique insights from his own life, making the book relatable and engaging for readers with similar experiences.
• Actionable Tips: The book is filled with actionable tips and strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve focus, productivity, and overall well-being.
• Broader Understanding: It helps readers without ADHD understand the condition better, fostering empathy and support for those who have it.

What are the key takeaways of "Faster Than Normal"?

• ADHD as a Superpower: ADHD can be a superpower when managed correctly, offering unique advantages in creativity, problem-solving, and energy.
• Importance of Structure: Establishing routines and eliminating unnecessary choices can significantly enhance productivity and focus for individuals with ADHD.
• Exercise and Diet: Regular exercise and a healthy diet are crucial for managing ADHD symptoms and maintaining mental clarity.
• Self-Awareness and Adaptation: Understanding personal triggers and adapting strategies to manage them is essential for thriving with ADHD.

How does Peter Shankman suggest managing ADHD in "Faster Than Normal"?

• Create Rituals: Shankman emphasizes the importance of creating rituals instead of resolutions to build consistent habits that support ADHD management.
• Eliminate Choices: Reducing unnecessary choices in daily life can help minimize decision fatigue and improve focus.
• Exercise Regularly: Incorporating regular physical activity is highlighted as a key strategy for boosting dopamine levels and enhancing concentration.
• Use Technology Wisely: Leveraging digital tools and apps can help organize tasks, manage time, and reduce distractions.

What are some of the best quotes from "Faster Than Normal" and what do they mean?

• "ADHD isn’t a diagnosis, it’s a gift." This quote encapsulates the book's central theme that ADHD can be a powerful asset when understood and managed effectively.
• "You’re not broken. You’re not damaged." Shankman reassures readers that having ADHD does not mean they are flawed, but rather uniquely equipped with a faster brain.
• "Eliminate choice whenever possible." This advice highlights the importance of reducing decision-making to conserve mental energy and maintain focus.
• "Exercise isn’t just good for the body; it’s essential for the ADHD brain." This emphasizes the role of physical activity in managing ADHD symptoms and improving mental health.

How does "Faster Than Normal" redefine ADHD?

• Positive Reframing: The book reframes ADHD from a disorder to a unique advantage, focusing on the strengths it can bring.
• Success Stories: Shankman shares success stories of individuals who have thrived because of their ADHD, not despite it.
• Practical Advice: It provides practical advice on how to harness the ADHD brain's potential for creativity and productivity.
• Empowerment: The book empowers readers to embrace their ADHD traits and use them to achieve personal and professional success.

What practical strategies does Peter Shankman offer in "Faster Than Normal"?

• Routine and Structure: Establishing a consistent daily routine to minimize distractions and enhance focus.
• Exercise and Nutrition: Prioritizing regular exercise and a balanced diet to support brain function and energy levels.
• Digital Tools: Utilizing apps and technology to organize tasks, manage time, and reduce clutter.
• Self-Monitoring: Being aware of personal triggers and implementing strategies to avoid or manage them effectively.

How does Peter Shankman use his personal experiences in "Faster Than Normal"?

• Relatable Stories: Shankman shares personal anecdotes that illustrate both the challenges and advantages of living with ADHD.
• Success Examples: He discusses how ADHD has contributed to his success in business and personal life, providing inspiration for others.
• Trial and Error: The book includes examples of trial and error in managing ADHD, offering insights into what works and what doesn't.
• Authenticity: Shankman's candid storytelling creates an authentic connection with readers, making the advice more impactful.

What role does exercise play in managing ADHD according to "Faster Than Normal"?

• Boosts Dopamine Levels: Exercise is highlighted as a natural way to increase dopamine levels, which can improve focus and mood.
• Enhances Concentration: Regular physical activity is shown to enhance concentration and reduce hyperactivity symptoms.
• Stress Reduction: Exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
• Routine Building: Incorporating exercise into a daily routine can provide structure and consistency, benefiting overall ADHD management.

How does "Faster Than Normal" address the challenges of ADHD in relationships?

• Communication is Key: The book emphasizes the importance of open communication with partners about ADHD-related challenges.
• Understanding and Empathy: Encourages partners to understand and empathize with the unique traits and needs of someone with ADHD.
• Shared Strategies: Suggests developing shared strategies to manage ADHD symptoms and improve relationship dynamics.
• Patience and Support: Highlights the need for patience and support from both partners to navigate the ups and downs of ADHD together.

What are some common misconceptions about ADHD that "Faster Than Normal" addresses?

• ADHD as a Deficit: The book challenges the notion that ADHD is solely a deficit, instead presenting it as a potential strength.
• Medication as the Only Solution: Shankman discusses the importance of behavioral strategies alongside medication, rather than relying solely on pharmaceuticals.
• ADHD as a Childhood Disorder: It addresses the misconception that ADHD is only a childhood disorder, highlighting its impact on adults.
• Uniform Symptoms: The book explains that ADHD symptoms can vary widely among individuals, requiring personalized management strategies.

How can "Faster Than Normal" help someone without ADHD?

• Understanding ADHD: The book provides insights into the ADHD experience, fostering empathy and understanding for those with the condition.
• Productivity Tips: Many of the strategies for managing ADHD, such as routine building and minimizing distractions, can benefit anyone looking to improve productivity.
• Relationship Insights: Offers valuable advice for supporting loved ones with ADHD, enhancing relationship dynamics.
• Broader Perspective: Encourages readers to embrace differences and recognize the unique strengths that diverse perspectives can bring.