How understanding your brain fuels creativity

Dr. Tracy Packiam joined us to discuss how we can lean into the strengths of our brains by understanding how they function, particularly in the context of ADHD. She explained that the ADHD brain is characterized by an overly active motor cortex, which is responsible for planning and controlling movement, and an underactive prefrontal cortex, the area associated with working memory. This combination often leads to a strong impulse to interrupt or jump into conversations, but it also fosters creative and divergent thinking. To maximize the potential of the ADHD brain, Dr. Packiam recommends incorporating short bursts of movement throughout the day, creating a personalized “dopa-menu” to boost motivation, and intentionally quieting the analytical mind to unlock greater creativity.