Faster than normal: turbocharge your focus, productivity, and success with the secrets of the ADHD brain by Peter Shankman Summary
Overview of Faster than normal
"Faster Than Normal" transforms ADHD from disorder to superpower. Entrepreneur Peter Shankman's bestseller reveals how his 500+ skydiving jumps fuel creativity and hyperfocus. What if your "disadvantage" is actually your greatest competitive edge in business and life?
- ADHD’s hyperfocus drives unparalleled creativity when strategically channeled.
- Reframe ADHD as a productivity superpower instead of a neurological flaw.
- Exercise acts as natural medication to stabilize and energize the ADHD brain.
- Reduce decision fatigue by automating routines to unlock peak mental performance.
- Digital tools transform ADHD’s chaos into organized task-mastery systems.
- Leverage time blindness as an asset for immersive flow-state work sessions.
- Skydiving-level adrenaline spikes can catalyze hyperproductive writing sprints post-activity.
- ADHD thrives in structured environments with clear priorities and fewer choices.
- Peter Shankman’s “Lamborghini brain” metaphor explains ADHD’s speed-optimized untapped potential.
- Success requires embracing impulsive energy rather than fighting neurotypical norms.
- Micro-achievements build momentum for ADHD minds needing immediate gratification loops.
- Nutrition directly impacts ADHD symptom management and sustained creative output.
About the Author of Faster than normal
Peter Shankman, bestselling author of Faster Than Normal and a pioneering entrepreneur, has redefined neurodiversity advocacy through his work on ADHD as a competitive advantage.
A diagnosed ADHDer himself, Shankman draws from his experience as a licensed skydiver, Ironman triathlete, and founder of Help a Reporter Out (HARO)—the world’s largest free source repository, acquired by Vocus in 2010—to explore productivity, creativity, and harnessing neurodivergent traits.
His expertise spans six books, including The Boy With the Faster Brain, and his award-winning Faster Than Normal podcast, which reframes ADHD as a superpower through interviews with high-achievers.
As a globally recognized keynote speaker and Futurist-in-Residence at BluShark Digital, Shankman advises Fortune 500 companies on neurodiversity in the workplace. Recognized by The New York Times as a “rock star” of social media, his insights blend entrepreneurial success with actionable strategies for thriving in a fast-paced world.
FAQs About Faster than normal
What is Faster Than Normal by Peter Shankman about?
Faster Than Normal reframes ADHD as a neurodivergent advantage, offering strategies to harness hyperactivity, creativity, and rapid thinking for productivity. Peter Shankman combines personal anecdotes (like thriving as an entrepreneur despite ADHD) with actionable tips, such as using exercise to boost dopamine and structuring routines to minimize distractions.
Who should read Faster Than Normal?
This book is ideal for ADHD individuals seeking empowerment, professionals managing neurodiverse teams, or anyone struggling with focus. Shankman’s insights benefit parents, educators, and therapists aiming to reframe ADHD traits as strengths rather than limitations.
Is Faster Than Normal worth reading?
Yes—it provides a fresh, solutions-oriented perspective on ADHD, blending science-backed strategies with relatable stories. Readers praise its actionable advice on time management, diet, and leveraging hyperactivity for career success.
How does Faster Than Normal redefine ADHD?
Shankman labels ADHD a “superpower,” emphasizing traits like hyperfocus, creativity, and rapid problem-solving. He contrasts this with outdated deficit-focused narratives, sharing examples of entrepreneurs and artists who channel ADHD for innovation.
What practical ADHD management tips does the book recommend?
- Exercise daily: Boosts dopamine for better focus.
- Simplify decisions: Reduce choices to preserve mental energy.
- Use digital tools: Apps like Trello for task organization.
- Establish routines: Predictable schedules minimize overwhelm.
What are key quotes from Faster Than Normal?
- “ADHD isn’t a diagnosis, it’s a gift”: Encourages embracing neurodivergence.
- “Exercise isn’t just good for the body; it’s essential for the ADHD brain”: Highlights physical activity’s cognitive benefits.
How does Faster Than Normal compare to other ADHD books?
Unlike clinical guides, Shankman’s approach is autobiographical and solution-focused. It parallels Driven to Distraction but emphasizes entrepreneurial success over medical analysis.
Can Faster Than Normal help workplace productivity?
Yes—it advises optimizing environments for ADHD strengths (e.g., flexible schedules, movement breaks) and using hyperfocus for intensive tasks. Managers learn to leverage neurodiverse teams for innovation.
What criticisms exist about Faster Than Normal?
Some note Shankman’s strategies assume privilege (e.g., flexible work setups). Critics argue ADHD’s challenges (e.g., emotional dysregulation) could use deeper exploration.
Why is Faster Than Normal relevant in 2025?
With remote work and AI reshaping productivity norms, its neurodiversity-focused strategies align with modern demands for adaptable, creative thinkers. Shankman’s tech-friendly tips (e.g., app-based organization) remain timely.
How does Peter Shankman’s background inform the book?
As a diagnosed ADHD entrepreneur, skydiver, and author, Shankman uses lived experience to validate his advice. His startup successes (e.g., HARO) exemplify ADHD traits driving innovation.
What metaphors does the book use to explain ADHD?
Shankman compares ADHD brains to “Ferrari engines”—high-powered but requiring precise handling. This metaphor reinforces the need for tailored routines and fuel (e.g., nutrition, sleep).
Feel the book through the author's voice
Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights
Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning
Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way
Key Themes in Faster than normal
Quotes from Faster than normal
Your greatest weakness is your greatest strength.
Rituals harness the power of habit formation.
Think of it as training your brain to crave productivity.
The goal isn't to become more 'normal'—it's to build a life that accommodates.
Characters in Faster than normal
Quick Summary Mode - Read or listen to Faster than normal Summary in 8 Minutes
Break down key ideas from Faster than normal into bite-sized takeaways to understand how innovative teams create, collaborate, and grow.
Flash Card Mode - Top 8 Insights from Faster than normal in a Nutshell
Distill Faster than normal into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.
Fun Mode - Faster than normal Lessons Told Through 24-Min Stories
Experience Faster than normal through vivid storytelling that turns innovation lessons into moments you'll remember and apply.
Personalize Mode - Read or listen to Faster than normal Summary in 0 Minutes
Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
Get the Faster than normal summary as a free PDF or EPUB. Print it or read offline anytime.
