How can individuals with ADHD build a sense of purpose to enhance self-worth?

PostedDecember 24, 2025

UpdatedDecember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Understanding how ADHD affects purpose and self-worth

Many adults with ADHD describe long-standing struggles with purpose, confidence, and identity. According to the NICE ADHD guideline NG87, difficulties with emotional regulation, planning, and organisation can make it harder to build momentum toward meaningful goals. Over time, repeated setbacks can influence self-belief, so recognising these patterns is an important first step.

Reframing self-beliefs through learning and self-understanding

Psychoeducation; learning how ADHD affects thoughts, emotions, and behaviour, helps many people replace self-criticism with self-awareness. NHS-linked resources, such as this webinar on ADHD and low self-esteem, show that understanding ADHD can reduce shame and support healthier identity development. When individuals appreciate that symptoms are neurological rather than character flaws, it becomes easier to reconnect with meaningful goals.

Using CBT techniques to strengthen self-worth

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is widely used to help adults with ADHD challenge negative thinking, manage procrastination, and build problem-solving skills. Evidence summaries, including this CBT and ADHD overview, show how CBT techniques align with the self-management strategies recommended in NICE guidance and can improve motivation and confidence.

Building purpose through strengths-based approaches

Many individuals find purpose more easily when they recognise and use their strengths; whether creativity, curiosity, energy, or periods of hyperfocus. Strengths-based coaching, described in this ADHD coaching overview, helps people set realistic goals, build routines, and recognise progress.
Private services such as ADHD Certify can also support individuals in understanding their ADHD profile within a clinical framework, which may help them explore their strengths and identity.

Enhancing intrinsic motivation

Research drawing on Self-Determination Theory shows that purpose grows when autonomy, competence, and connection are supported. A 2021 review on ADHD and motivation; available via the SDT study explains how ADHD symptoms can undermine these needs. Choosing meaningful goals, building skills gradually, and staying connected to supportive people can help intrinsic motivation develop more naturally.

Creating supportive routines and activities

Regular physical activity can boost attention, mood, and confidence, while supportive relationships help sustain motivation. NHS resources, such as this ADHD support leaflet, highlight the value of structured routines and community support. Many people find that their purpose becomes clearer when they stay connected to others who understand ADHD.

Takeaway

A strong sense of purpose is achievable for people with ADHD, not through willpower alone, but through understanding how ADHD affects motivation, using evidence-based tools like CBT and psychoeducation, and building on personal strengths. With the right insights and support, self-worth can grow naturally as individuals move toward goals that feel meaningful and achievable.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.