We're not unaware though. We know we are capable of doing these things because we can do them exceptionally well in short bursts of hyper-focus. We see the potential and we desire the outcomes. We lack the executive function to put those things into action consistently.

I was not completely unaware of failing most classes in high school and having to get a GED despite wanting to do my homework and study for tests. I was very motivated and interested in the subjects, I could just not focus enough to complete my work. This caused me to have an adverse reaction to even starting a project/task which I still struggle with today (even though it's much easier now).

So while I can of course not predict what would have happened, I can pretty safely say my life path would have been completely different had I had a chance to get treated earlier. I would have gone to college, at least.

I'm not sure what your point is.

> I was not completely unaware of failing most classes in high school and having to get a GED despite wanting to do my homework and study for tests.

This was pretty much me as well. I remember at the start of every new school year promising this time it would be different. I would do my homework and pay attention in classes and get good grades! Each year it spiraled into the same mess. Diagnosed with ADHD in my 30's.

>My point is that you're ginning up a scenario in your head that wasn't ever going to happen

Do you mean that if I had been able to treat my disorder earlier, nothing would have been different? I don't dwell on it, but to say my academic success would have been wildly different medicated is just wrong.