Council Post: Tips On Leading And Delegating For Entrepreneurs With ADHD

Research published in Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, pooling 47 studies and 298 effect sizes, suggests that traits tied to ADHD—especially hyperactivity and impulsivity—are positively associated with entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviors, while inattention correlates negatively with outcomes after launch. In an advice-style column, contributor Chris Kille (founder of EO Staff and Payment Pilot, based in Boston) argues that much business writing covers only the early “flattering” stage. He emphasizes leadership after start-up: hire people willing to challenge ideas, give them real authority, and don’t take back delegated work. Examples include David Neeleman’s approach of surrounding himself with people who push back and Paul Orfalea’s delegation model at Kinko’s.