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Project management and I work from home. WFH has been the ticket for me because I can slack off 1-2 days a week, allowing me the break and mental rest that helps me stay highly productive on the other days. My company cares more about results than about micromanaging what we are doing, so it’s worked out really well.
Project management has been a good fit because it is basically ADHD in a job. I have to constantly jump from task to task and keep track of tons of details that have no relation to one another. Once I figured out the right notes system, I have been killing it.
“My company cares more about results than about micromanaging what we are doing”
More important than specific career or industry, regardless of ADHD status…
What’s your note-taking system. I’ve recently taken a job promotion to a Project manager and I’ve been questioning the fit solely due to my ADHD. I’ve always felt due to my work ethic and some learning abilities I can do anything but project management on the organization side has been a tremendous challenge for me.
I just take ridiculously detailed notes. Who, what, when, where, why, and how for everything. It is tedious but it saves me a lot of time later when I go back and don’t have to decipher wtf happened with something I don’t remember anymore. I’ve been in that situation too many times to cut corners anymore on notes.
There are a lot of project management software programs that you can use to organize your notes but it does take some time and intelligence to set one up in a way that works and makes sense for whatever you’re doing. If you inherited something that isn’t working for you, it might be worth the trouble to either rebuild it or move to another software that works better for your needs.
I think the key part is to always dedicate time to doing your notes properly. The thing that causes note systems to fail is when you aren't able to do that, so your notes stay in the short hand that you jotted them down in, and the problem metastasizes at some point.
Same for me…. Implementation Manager. Getting a grip on the various levels of documentation was a challenge because I hate it all, but the joy I get from not worrying anymore has slowly turned that around. It’s a weird dance. But project management is aces, and can be decently lucrative, too.
CANNOT echo enough how managing my own schedule aids to my success.
What’re some tips/tricks you’d suggest for project management and managing the long, drawn out due dates and managing multiple projects that are each at different stages? I was doing this along with implementation but I found it extremely difficult and would procrastinate too much, ultimately burning out.
This is not really helpful but you just can’t procrastinate.
I make a list of things each day that I want to get done and include a mix of desirable and undesirable tasks. Then I just do it (usually in order and check them off as I go). Being medicated has helped a lot and so has having slack off days. I’m definitely not perfect though, it’s hard.
For real though, this is definitely one of the reasons you'll find so many talented developers/engineers have ADHD.
I just got told last week by my project manager and VP that I'm doing a great job on my **_extremely late_** project because every time some problem comes up I'm 2 steps ahead and already working on another solution before they know there's a problem.
Like when i am given a list of parameters, specs and equipment then told to go at. Its soooo much fun, i am jaming out to music having a blast.
Its like crack lol i am lucky i found a job i love and get paid well for it
What sort of engineering do you do? I am exiting the military in a few years, and I need a plan. I have very broad interests, but I’m not especially passionate about any particular thing and your description sounds appealing.
I'm a manufacturing process engineer, you get to design new methods for making things, find ways to improve existing manufacturing lines, and work with cool machines and automation. I love it! If you like "how things work" engineering will be great for you.
Design engineer, i handle the project from concept to fabrication. The project engineer handles the equipment selection, sizing, custom interactions and ordering
I am essentially just given bunch of equipment and a schematic on what goed to what. Then i just design it
I occasionally have to do drawings which isnt challenging so i find it boring
also a dev. i sometimes get so into my work that an hour or two after putting earbuds in my ears i realise that i didn’t click on play. :D i’ve tried listening to podcasts and audio books, but i just zone out and miss out on everything. i really enjoy listening to music while i work, but not sure how i’m fine with music — i’m even learning the words to the ukrainian songs in my playlists.
my hours are usually 5-14:30 and that’s great, but being up so early every day is what i think causes some issues for me. i tend to go to bed a bit late sometimes and then after a while i start missing stuff at home or forgetting something my wife asked me to do or just go on autopilot when she talks to me and completely miss the conversation. i tend to get shat on often for all that. :|
Software eng here - I specifically love thinking of how to build something object oriented. Been working on a solo project for work lately (like a mini tool/program) and it's been *heaven*
Environmental engineering field here. My background is geology (undergrad) and environmental science (grad school). The bulk of what I do is related to data analysis and modeling/GIS related remote sensing type stuff along with some project management. My ADHD allows me to analyze the shit out of things and multi task at a level that my coworkers think is super human. The only downside is that I have a hard time letting things go and can get caught up with perfection -- I have to constantly remind myself "don't let perfect be the enemy of good".
Same here, and luckily I'm in a position where I can come up with inventive ideas to issues, keeps the job fresh and reduces burnout which I do get occasionally when I'm doing repetitive or mundane tasks
That or CS, I feel like data science and machine learning projects have much quicker results then engineering projects. Personally for me I struggle with patience sometimes, especially when learning new skills. I also feel like a lot of people with ADHD also struggle with that.
Went in to engineering cause my brain works like that too. Got what I thought was my dream job. Unfortunately I discovered my field was not what I wanted as a life long career. Constantly having to figure out other people's problems with zero pay increase for the additonal workload drove me nuts. Might have been better with a different company but I had burned out so hard I left the field altogether.
There were several times during my five years of working as a tech in a cancer hospital pharmacy (making chemo and the like) that the pharmacists would be hand wringing and freaking out about something... and then I'd walk by and make a suggestion and they'd all look at each other like, "what do I have this degree for if okpickle can figure this out and I can't?!"
As a very underemployed person at the time, it was quite satisfying.
I now work as a documentation specialist in the regulatory department of a medical school. Organizing things. How ironic is that?!
I’m a teacher! The burnout is real in general for teachers and sometimes it’s waaaaay too much stimulation for me. However, I do really like that I can run my classroom however I want! I have a lot of freedom on how it’s structured and relate a lot to my ADHD students :) If I feel too overwhelmed, I can switch gears on the activity we’re doing.
I’m a teacher too and I love it.
It’s different every day and only parts of it are boring (report cards) and those parts only happen a couple times a year .
I would really like to own my own business, but I don’t know if I have the discipline for it, the structure of school is good for me. I have difficulty imagining myself doing anything else!
I'll add I'm a college professor and I agree with these sentiments about teaching. So from the K-College it seems there's some commonality here. A lot of independence in the classroom, to choose how and what you teach. You need to be good on your feet and a good speaker, and in my case know your advanced subject well (special interest). The research side is more challenging bc you need consistent discipline without structure but there are many mostly teaching gigs.
Special education teacher here! Having ADHD and working with atypical kids is wonderful. Having ADHD and working with adults that are either high masking & in denial or typical is exhausting.
SpeechProf on various platforms introduced me to the ableism I was imposing in my classroom, and I didn't even know I was doing things that would have hurt ME in the same situation.
Good on you, fellow teacher fam!!!
Middle school science teacher here. Burn out is very real, especially in education. But I love teaching cuz I know I would lose my mind if I were stuck behind a desk looking at a computer screen for 8 hours a day. There's schedule and routine, which is good for like the parts of us that need structure. But the students also bring an element of surprise everyday that keeps me on my toes. Sure, I k ow generally what the day will look like, but having to figure out specifics on the fly when dealing with students is fun too. I like the balance. Of course, having really bad executive dysfunction, I find it REALLY hard to plan my lessons like super far in advance, but I'm working on it😅
Im studying to become a teacher right now 🩷. I was self-employed for the last 6 years and let me tell you, I cant WAIT to be with kids all the time. Im so tired and Currently not working because clients drained me so much ( im a nail tech btw) and It gave me a burn-out lol …. But dealing with ADULT WOMAN acting like KIDS is WAY WORSE than dealing with a class full of kids 🩷.
Thank you for posting your answer, it confirms that im making the right choice for my life xx
Medical doctor recently diagnosed with ADHD. And depression. And anxiety. Honestly, it's been overwhelming for me to say the least. The stress has gotten so bad that I was advised to take a break for a while. I'm really just trying to get back on my feet at the moment.
I’m a lawyer diagnosed at 50. The stress-related
anxiety and depression (and shutdown) were what led me to to get diagnosed so I can relate. If you’re like,
you worked on caffeine and stress. That works until it doesn’t.
Take the time and get your life in order. There’s a lot of work to do. Meds can take a while to get straight. Work on systems that will compensate. CBT is supposed to be effective, but other therapy probably works. Get your sleep in order — maybe even a sleep study.
I actually addressed this in a recent post. People with ADHD tend to have more sleep disorders than other people- insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg, etc. Unfortunately, poor sleep seems to exacerbate adhd symptoms for many people (me included). I happened to be diagnosed with sleep apnea about a decade before ADHD and I think it helped me compensate.
A sleep study will diagnose these conditions. Sometimes it’s stay at a facility over night, sometimes it’s an at home thing.
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mental-health/adhd-and-sleep
I would also like to add the higher possibility of circadian rhythm disorders. They are less well known and often overlooked.
Please read the rest in a pharmacy ad voice:
Do you struggle to sleep or wake at "normal" times but still find you sleep the appropriate amount of time when left to your own schedule? Do you often feel like you have jet lag in the mornings? If you sleep very little and must wake up in the morning are you tired almost all day but then as soon as the evening hits you are wide awake again? Then talk to your doctor about "delayed sleep phase syndrome" or "delayed circadian rhythm"
My PCP just told me that he has adhd. For what it’s worth, as a patient, I trust him even more now, because I know he understands me. I also enjoy meeting with him because we have some similar interests and will have our little adhd conversations where we both get excitable. 😆
Take time to get back on your feet, and know that if you choose to stay in the field, there are many of us who would be relieved to have you as our doctor.
Found out my pcp has ADHD too. Requested for a referral and she told me she had it too but doesn't talk about it a lot cause there are still people that stigmatize it. Told her I felt the same way and she said if I'm feeling like I have it she wanted to help 100% with no judgement. Straight hugged that lady cause I knew she got it.
TLDR: When you find a good pcp stay with them.
Pharmacist here…officially diagnosed at 46. ADHD, severe depression, anxiety. I’ve had severe depressive episodes every 2-3-4 years since I was 20. Needed ECT once. Started on Vyvanse last week. Absolute night and day difference in brain function. I can’t even describe it. It’s like the lights are on…finally. Feel free to pm!
Same here. The burnout is real.
I'm also taking leave from clinical medicine to deal with *gestures wildly* all of this. As shitty as the circumstances are, you're definitely not alone (despite what the stigma might want you to believe.)
Student about to enter the program for my RN. Also applied to a few hospitals to work as a PCT and have some interviews lined up. I'm genuinely terrified but my passion for science and helping people is too strong to give up. Let yourself rest, but come back. We need you. Especially those of us who are also struggling with those things.
I do online grocery at a Walmart.
Been doing it for about 7 years now.
Prior to that I was a stocker. Stocking I didn't like too much because I would zone out in between each case so would stock, or I would start reading the labels of things I was stocking. Online grocery is so much easier for me because I'm constantly focused on finding my next item on my handheld. It's kind of like playing a game for me. Also when it comes to seeing how fast I can finish each order. It also helps that we're allowed to wear one earbud so I have podcasts or music in my ear which is a big help to keep myfeom mind wondering.
I work for myself as a house cleaner. I’m not one of the gifted ADHDers, so my options are limited. It’s decent money, but I’m switching to dog walking soon and eventually I want to own a doggy daycare.
Pet sitting is so great! I did it since 2017. If you live in a city you can make a lot of money doing it. People really want to have sitters stay in their home overnight with their pets rather than boarding them. Good luck to you!! You can do it!
Let your friends or family or colleagues know that you’re doing this.
Create a personal brand on social.
Contact pet shops. Let them know about yourself and share your social handles.
Engage with your target audience on their social.
Same, been solo cleaning for a few years now. I like the immediate gratification of a job well done and I get to listen to podcasts. Dog walking sounds like a good gig too. Like, almost too much fun to be getting paid for lol
IT, I'm a Solution Architect. I specifically work in-house for a large privately owned company, delivering internally focused projects for them.
It has its ups and downs. My projects vary a fair bit, so I find the variety of topics interesting and because I need to research the thing I'm designing a solution for I essentially get paid to fall down rabbit holes of research. I also get to see these projects through to completion, which I find very rewarding. I much prefer that instead of handing everything off and dusting my hands of it all.
What I do find annoying: announced changes. I'm really, really good at adapting to sudden random variances into my work but if you come to me several weeks/months into the thing and tell me there's been a scope creep or a decision about something has been reversed, I will not be pleased.
And documentation *SUUUUUUUCKS*. I really have to force myself to do this properly, because I retain a buttload of old project information in my head (and my inbox) but still I don't give enough respect to the time needed to write everything down for someone else to use. This is partly a me thing, and also partly a behaviour I've just gotten into after years of being the only person responsible for designing, building, and then maintaining the thing.
I'm also secretly hoping generative AI development will hurry up and get to the point that I can converse with my computer about the project solution and the documentation will just write itself.
"And documentation SUUUUUUUCKS. I really have to force myself to do this properly, because I retain a buttload of old project information in my head (and my inbox) but still I don't give enough respect to the time needed to write everything down for someone else to use."
Get out of my head!
SAP consultant here, great projects when I get to be technical and hands on, am absolute nightmare when I'm just making powerpoints and babysitting offshore resource. Will just check out mentally very fast from this kind of position. Why I tend to do more dev work nowadays and go techno-functional.
I’m a IT Manager. I have been in IT for 22 years. It pays great but is a very busy job. I have to take notes on everything in every meeting or I’ll forget what I’m supposed to do.
My desk has yellow post-it notes stuck everywhere as reminders lol. But after awhile they become background noise. Without meds this job is extremely difficult
Post-it notes are our saviors...
I have a sort of a Kanban board on my desk with sticky notes. If I have too many I get overwhelmed and stop doing... If they're there for too long (too long being from a few hours to a couple weeks), then they don't exist anymore, even being there.... Till the glue gives up and it get shoved under something. Months after I find it. At this point reactions are random.... "Oh fuck", "What the fuck?", "No fucks" and "hell yeah!!" Are frequent ones.
The virtual ones don't work.
*EDIT: syntax errors
I’m also a Solution Architect - between jobs at the moment but hoping to land a senior SA role with a well known cloud provider. Re documentation, what I generally do is brain dump everything from my programmes and projects into Notion and split into contexts like business processes, data architecture, applications and components, platforms, hosting and technologies and security. I can then link any relevant bits of info together so I end up with a somewhat chaotic but mapped out view of the architecture that makes sense in my head. With the all the data I can get very specific with gen ai to create sections of documentation and tweak accordingly. This approach has pretty much saved my life
YES!!! I have been rethinking my workflow too and had the idea last night of using AI to summarize code blocks and write documentation for them!
I don't mind writing documentation, but I would rather be working out solutions to other bugs/features instead. Plus, I have used AI in the past to rewrite work emails to be less ADHD rambly. Maybe it can do the same thing for my documentation?
I've been doing restaurant work for over a decade and I love it. Currently I manage a cafe in the financial district of the city I live in and it's the only job I've ever had where I don't wake up in the morning dreading going to work. It has solid routines so I feel comfortable knowing how my day will be structured but every day is different enough that I don't get bored with it. Since I'm the manager I get to run things in a way that works for me so I make my own accommodations. Sure, there are other things I'd rather be doing but on the tier list of jobs I could have this one isn't so bad.
Fast food chain worker here. 10 years in a restaurant, I was in many of them. Structure - yes, difference - yes. Especially when you are a late shift worker. There's a routine you've been scheduled and a lot of emotions from funny drunk people.
Speaking of burning out.
In 2019, my dad died, I was pretty depressed because we spoke every day 30+ minutes, and I can say he was my best friend.
At that moment our restaurant was really toxic environment, I wanted to quit. But I was send as support to another city, and there I realized that the problem was not in me or my job, but actually in all of the people in my restaurant, so I've changed a restaurant and found new great people.
The End.
31. Live in Portland. The last time I held a desk job was when I was 25. Also got so burned out I had a nervous breakdown. I work at two bars now - and while a job is a job and jobs often suck - I really, really feed off the fast, social, and unpredictability of working as a bartender. I'm medicated - but for me my ADHD helps me at work, and being able to repurpose the issues with cognition benefits me outside of the bar as well.
I had a similar experience with a desk job. I just can’t do it. I own a food truck now and the fast paced service part is awesome. The actual business side (bookkeeping, permits, taxes, etc) is a struggle for me.
Lawyer. Burnout is very very real. I have always, and have come to accept will always, put my family ahead of my career, and when things are chaotic at home I can’t just put it aside. So I’ve never left the profession but I’ve changed jobs and now I’m back to running my own firm. With that said, I’ve put everything I’ve learned into action and am pushing my own values hard (kindness, respect) and doing all the things that feel right to me, and I am seeing signs it’s going to be a huge success. So I can put my family first, work hard at something I believe in, and have a flexible schedule.
I really need to start taking better care of myself. I’ve been spinning and lost for the last few years because my life has been on fire. I got shingles. So I’m starting with gentle self care. Meditation every day. I set my intention before I start work. I’ve always been good about taking my meds but I’m getting way better at vitamins. Next step is exercise and physical health. I have a plan with my therapist. I’m going to get there.
Whatever your job, you need to figure out how to do it in a way that works for you ❤️
Great appreciation from me to you.
What continent/state do you work in, and which Legal Practice?
I'm a young lawyer too and I've already had to change 3 law firms and take a break in between because I was in burnout (and depression). The demand for performance is really high, and the pressure too.
I like to practice law, but I think the environment in law firms is too heavy for an ADHD (inattentive).
I am slow to read and type what is in my head, whether it is a deed, research or opinion, while the speed of execution required by bosses is too much for me. I need my own time to process and write. (There is also the in-house legal option, but I don't know how the environment is ).
Have you had similar experiences? do you think opening your law firm is the best solution for an ADHD? finding clients on your own, not having an "organized structure" but having to create it yourself (without, otherwise you don't create routines), are all heavy challenges.
What advice would you kindly give me?
Btw i work with tax law and corporate law (maybe it is the practice that doesn't work for me). If I were to open my own practice I would do medical malpractice. I feel it is something "more human" and where you can really help people (In corporate law I feel little value/meaning for me)
Thanks in advance!!
I’m also a nurse and thought there would be more people saying this! I’ve had a lot of different jobs in my 6 years as a nurse, which might not be great but I appreciate there’s always something new to learn.
If you can find a way into the film industry, which is the hardest bit of the whole thing (look up skill building and entry level programs, depends which country you are in) you'll love it.
Most jobs are creative, fast paced and hands on with lots of novelty. I managed to work my way up for nearly a decade undiagnosed and unmedicated.
33, diagnosed at 30. I've worked my way up the art department for the past 8 to 10 years and it's everything I need, you get to solve problems, be creative, every job is different from the last. I tend to prefer commercials, because i usually lose interest after a few months into a movie or tv show, but i guess that depends on the person.
I've bounced around from warehousing, construction labouring and IT but most recent / longest position is GIS mapping which I find enjoyable. Combines my two favourite aspects, data & design
Quality assurance and risk management for a clinical software developer.
I love my job but sometimes the documentation is just sooo boring and thus hard for me to start.
Corporate trainer. I love it because training is often like telling a story and I am able to create my training materials, PowerPoint, e-learning storyboards, AI video. The ability to be creative and dive into a project where I can hyperfocus and see the awesome outcome, and
then used regularly, I love it.
However, same as others, I hate documentation.
Do you implement structures and guidelines?? I recently have been pondering what kind of position I could do that in. I love to break things down into clear steps… and make it into a guidebook to follow. Bullet points and flow charts make me really happy. lol.
I've been self employed for almost a decade and I don't think I could ever work a 'normal' job again. I've done a lot of different things during this time period, but always working for myself. 10/10.
What kinds of things do you do?? I started out on this path, and I’m on a “gap year” of sorts at the moment. Just curious what other options there are on this route.
There are unlimited options. Almost any skill you have or are willing to learn can be a self-employment path for you.
I've done a lot of art-related things - making and selling jewelry, clothing, paintings, etc. I've done a lot of pet care and childcare. The past couple years I was doing freelance web design, but that's slowed down a lot so I'm pivoting. The world is your oyster :)
I work with profoundly disabled adults, help them with independence and learning. I only got diagnosed with ADHD at the start of the month at 38 years old! I also have Tourettes syndrome, and a condition called idiopathic Hypersomnia. Which makes life a challenge at times.
Acting is what suits me best but the rejection sensitivity makes it hard to audition. I run an office for a one person business, play in a band, and sell at conventions.
I used to be in Fortune 500 marketing but I was getting sick from anxiety (I wasn’t diagnosed yet)
I’ve owned retail stores. It’s good because you hire good people to do the things you’re weakest at and you have a different sense of responsibility to making sure the store survives so your staff get paid
I am about your age and I have done so many different jobs. Started out as a teacher. Left that after two years and went to a call center. Left that and did AmeriCorps for a year. Got hired at the nonprofit to do outreach and grants work. Left that to go back to teaching. Left teaching to work at a university. The thing is, all of those previous experiences (maybe except the call center) gave me the experience for the job I have (and love!) right now. I just need a change every few years. It’s hard! I’m hoping I’ve found my forever job (or at least long term job) because I really enjoy it.
I have worked as an artist, teacher, server, fund raiser and now am in an admin position where I wfh. Teaching was my favorite. Sitting at a desk is slowly killing me.
I work in tech project management as a consultant.
**TLDR** Honestly, I love my job. At the end of the day, I’ve juggled so many things that my brain has been fully engaged, I usually change projects/clients/industries every 12-16 months (ooooooo shiny!) while staying with the same employer, I’m paid a comfortable salary and I can work remotely whenever I want/need to, which is invaluable for someone who has both ADHD *and* MS (yay).
**More details:**
My job requires me to:
- think about business problems and structure operational solutions with my little brain
- be completely autonomous and proactive in how I organize my workload and my tasks to secure my deadlines (this is hard, yo)
- keep on top of my deliverables’ timeline OR communicate effectively and early enough about delays to agree on deprioritizing some of my workload
This is only client-side. On top of my client engagement, I also:
- manage a team of consultants at my consulting firm
- make sure my consulting firm remembers I exist (cause they’re the ones deciding how much I get paid, not my client) so organizing or participating in business development or other time consuming initiatives
Highly recommend if you want a well paying job that’s flexible and intellectually engaging.
Emergency services. Due to physical health reasons I now have a desk job but I’m managing higher risk, like managing risk to life within collapsing time frame. I can be a little creative with how I tackle problems, but it’s not enough to scratch that creative itch. It fulfils everything else but I can’t manage well in an office environment without either heavily masking, or medication.
So anyway I have an Etsy business in the side!
I work on Hollywood tv and movie sets. I’m not sure if fulfilling is the right word (that has more to do with growing out of the notion your job is supposed to give you that feeling) but I like it most days. It is still a job and it’s a job that not everyone can do. Lots of ADHD and mental health outcasts in it tho
I’ve never had a career. Just jobs I like that pay well. Usually burn out within two years, go on a medical leave, look for another job, and start again. I just try to find work that involves as few people as possible. Finally working from home and this time it might work.
Creative Director in Advertising. Started as an Art Director in the creative department 20 years ago. I think the constant chaos and deadlines allowed me to stay hyperfocused and unmedicated for many years. Got to travel the world, work on fun brands, make silly commercials, and live in several countries. But long hours and weekends lead to serious burnout no matter how fun it could be at times. Ive been freelance WFH for about 6 years now which is awesome, but my ADHD and ability to focus got really bad with my new found “work life balance” so I’ve started medication after not taking it for 25 years. Seems to be helping. I was treated with SSRI’s and Benzos for panic disorder the past 10 years and it wasn’t fixing the problem. Started ADHD meds and they seem to be lifting that which feels like a miracle. I think finding the thing that you love doing, even if you can’t do it as a full time job, is super important to make time for. For me it was also painting.
I think the problem is working culture in many countries.
Folks with ADHD need more downtime than many others & working the hours that most people do is just too much.
I'm working 37.5 hours per week & I love my job. I've done similar jobs in the past, working more hours & not been happy.
Sex work 😎 Besides having to deal with idiot men on the regular, I love it. Make my own schedule, set my own rules, and I can chew/kick out anyone I want for any reason I want (with limits, gotta keep a good reputation). Only gotta mask for 1-2hrs at a time.
I’m in advertising and marketing. All my clients are the devil - big pharma. Specifically I work in the TV/Streaming environment. I know, we all *love* to see pharma ads over and over again! /s
The work is highly stressful, dealing with multi million dollar budgets and needing to exceed client KPIs. Any slip up and you’re the one falling on the sword. There’s some things I enjoy about the work, like analytics and figuring out “problems”, because it allows me to hyper-focus on things. I also really love the agency I work at so that makes things a bit better.
I don’t even know how I ended up in this field tbh lmao.
Ah agencies. I am on the publisher side and our agency people say they have the worst times lol. The turn over for them is insane. Every six months we are talking to a brand new team.
A LOT of my coworkers used to work at agencies like PHM and Havas so it explains a lot.
I’ve spent my entire career as a technical writer/instructional designer, which means I get to create lots of e-learning and training material for people. I was diagnosed in my mid 60s!!! I still love what I do, but I realized that while I do love trains, my hyperfocus is office procedures and computer systems, which worked out very very well for me. The subject of the learning is always something different and that keeps me interested and the methodology is always the same, which keeps me grounded. I do joke that my life is a careful balance of Xanax and Vyvanse.
FM Radio Program Director & On-Air Personality. Has given me a creative outlet for nearly 30 years while also offering just enough structure to keep me on-pointe & meeting deadlines. The desk in my office still has 5 different lists on it at all times, but thanks to its balance of routine & organized chaos Radio has been an incredibly ADHD-friendly career.
I got fired, and my job is the futile task of staving off depression while facing rejection after rejection after rejection and seeing the rest of my family making money.
SAME. It’s a rough job market right now. I’ve just accepted my depression at this point and I allow myself to marinate in it for a few hours every day 🥴 I’ve also been lying to recruiters and prospective employers and saying I left out of my own volition, and the lying makes me feel physically ill.
Relate a lot. And sorry for what you're also going through. It's very tough at the moment :( Trying to get back in touch with some of the activities that make me really happy, and see how I can make those skills marketable ...what a gross word. Anyway, best of luck to you!
I’m a Library Assistant! This role has been so nourishing for me as I have an established routine, get to work alone, quiet, and can support the community. I rarely get bored because this job helps me research my hyper fixations as well ☺️
I’m now preparing to apply for grad school to become a Librarian/Archivist 😁
I work as a public librarian and i love it so much. Its so varied and i basically never get sensory overload at work because libraries are naturally pretty chill 😊
I have skipped around different jobs for my entire life. At 38 years old, I have had over fifty jobs since I started working at 16. I have always had jobs, never a career. Restaurant work, call centers, a brief period when I was way younger where I got certified as a CNA, but I have never had a job where I was not telling myself that I really needed to get my shit together enough to go back to school or find something that I was able to support my family with.
I didn’t get diagnosed until I was in my thirties, and I struggled really badly with my mental health. Emotional disregulation and extreme rsd ruled my whole world until very recently, and while I at least know what is happening in order to try and work through it now, it’s still there, and still a huge struggle. I would leave jobs out of *”just knowing”* that everyone hated me, or because I made a single mistake or said one embarrassing thing and my anxiety would push me to quit because I was afraid of being fired.
I get anxiety during interviews, suck at eye contact and my resume has no real value because of how many shitty short term jobs I’ve had. But I’m getting too old for restaurant work, it’s hard on my body and barely keeps me afloat. So I’m not really sure if I can get a better job without going to school. I’m finally medicated, and finally getting help so I have a better chance than I ever had before at going to school and getting a degree. I’m just not really sure what to go for because I have not really had the option before so I didn’t think too hard about it.
I work in the legal and contract department of a large global company. Been with the company nearly 12 years and in this particular job for over 6. Absolutely love my job; it’s structured but also requires me to think outside the box. There are rules and processes, but also exceptions and times where you have to get creative with how you draft a contract.
There’s definitely days where I struggle with motivation, feeling overwhelmed, or being unable to complete a project or complicated task. But my colleagues and manager are amazing, and I’ve worked my way up and built a reputation as one of the absolute best at what I do, and it feels amazing to have accomplished so much at work while struggling personally at the same time.
Currently still undiagnosed but seeking assessment asap for ADHD at 35. Already diagnosed with depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I’m just a freaking grab bag of mental disorders apparently.
I am a content creator making all kinds of YouTube videos. Not yet sustainable, but it has a passive income factor that helps keep the money coming when I have my down time. I hope in a few years I can make it sustainable and successful.
Scaffolding. Yes love it. Hate the bullshit and having to interact with really stupid people, which I have to do regularly (most management/supervision are incredibly fucking stupid).
It's a great career if you're medicated. I'm basically a field-level structural engineer, if I have freedom to build whatever I want. Since most of my coworkers are greatly uneducated people, it's easy to step over them and advance to the top. Higher your confidence, the better you'll do.
I usually take a leadership role and teach my apprentices whenever I can, while being a positive role model in the work place.
Im a orthodontic lab technician! It’s fun, feels like I’m doing arts and crafts all day, and I can bounce around all day. I make all sorts of retainers, palate expanders, and other appliances that orthodontists request!
Pediatric occupational therapist! I work four 10 hour days. Every hour I’m with a different kid. I do child-led therapy so every hour looks veeeery different and I thrive in being able to think on my feet. I have a million ideas fly through my head at any given moment to provide therapeutic opportunities for skill building based off of what types of input they’re looking for and what skills they’re showing me are emerging. I’m constantly moving and modeling sensory regulating inputs which is also helpful for me! I get to talk to ADHD kids about their adhd. I work for a hospital so it’s fast-paced and deadline focused which keeps urgency high which (as stressful as that can be most days) does help me get shit done like paperwork. I am absolutely fulfilled. Just tired by the end of the day!
Mental health therapist. I truly love it. I work for myself in private practice and I pay a biller to do my billing because I could never be trusted to pay myself correctly lol. I have also considered getting a little more admin help sometimes but so far I have made it 6 years doing this and it’s going ok. The variety and the neverending opportunities to learn new things keeps me from ever being bored. I do get burnt out sometimes but that has more to do with if my personal life isn’t as fufilling or if it’s stressful. If I keep a balance, I don’t burn out
I’m an accountant. I don’t feel like my ADHD gets much in the way. I’m bad about not being on time or forgetting tasks but when I’m in the ledgers it’s like solving a puzzle and I quite enjoy it
I work in a small CBD production laboratory, but also I freelance in hands-on creative industries like visual merchandising and prop making.
The CBD lab is what I consider my “main” job, but it’s a zero hour contract so I only work when there is work available. Having a small team & bosses who I love reeeeeeally helps, but the flexibility/unpredictability of the schedule is what keeps me from burnout! Been working there almost 3 years.
Freelancing has a similar schedule, and every project I work on is different and interesting! I have a fine arts background, so I find it really stimulating & I love being able to specialise in something! I’m based in the UK, if it matters.
I was in corporate video, it was a small studio so I was responsible for everything from preparing the shoot, production (lighting, audio, camera, direction) client relations and the final edit. I did that for 12 years,
I have social anxiety so every shoot day was a struggle. I burnt out last December, actually well before that, but I was laid off in December and I was diagnosed in May.
I'm still unemployed and have a bit of PTSD (not diagnosed, just a sick feeling) whenever I think of doing something simular. Looking for new opportunities, but at 44 years old, I'm not sure what to do.
I’m a data analyst. I think it works well for me. When I’m in my super focused zone I can get sooooo much work done that when I’m feeling distracted I can take it a little easier.
I was a critical care nurse turned law student. The change in career is what led me to get diagnosed. Switching from high pace to steady was really the game changer and revealed a lot.
Everyone always told me I should be in sales… I didn’t want to be in sales and avoided it until I was in my 30’s. Then I tried it because nothing else was working. Turns out, it was so easy for me to be at the top of the team. Sharing belief in stuff came naturally but I had to believe in it myself. I made triple the money I had previously made and didn’t have to work as hard as others.
Wait... You folks are capable of working?
Before I wasn't working; I was in the Army, I was a chauffeur, I was in security; I did home/commercial removals; youth work; charity work; worked for a cartel; Boxed; conservation work; lots of volunteering; cook at a homeless shelter; food delivery; car valeting; vehicle breakdown recovery; cleaner; personal fitness trainer/coach.
Those are the ones I can remember at the top of my head
I am currently unemployed; weening off meds so I can go on ADHD meds and then looking into becoming a paramedic.
I have been unemployed for quite a few years and I still feel completely burnt out but have a small ambition to start work again but I want a career that I will enjoy and can stick at; being a paramedic seems like it is something I can absolutely thrive at; my only issue is my self confidence and my ability to do the academic side since I have never had any real schooling or education
I’m a speech-language pathologist who helps students with disabilities. I love the high school level because I can teach them that yeah school might be hard (it was for me), but if you try and don’t give up you can do anything! I also educate my seniors all the different things they need to do to get accommodations, support, & funding at the college level. So they don’t have to go through the hardships I had to figuring it out all on my own, which sucked and was hard lol.
45. Communications/marketing. I don't do a lot of long running campaigns. I've become the go-to person if you need something fast and good. I tried moving up to a people leader position but after 6 months as acting manager, I decided it's not for me. That is likely not ADHD related-- I just have no patience for the amount of handholding some people need.
I'm a machine operator at a production dairy.
I wear ear protection with Bluetooth in it and I get to vibe all day to podcasts, or music and I absolutely love it, and the jobs just physical enough I stay fully occupied mentally and physically and it's what I need.
I wish it paid better or I had a way to make more but I do okay and we get by.
I work in state government for a regulatory agency. My job has to do with professional licensure. Most of my time is at my desk working independently. I rarely get phone calls. Some of the time, I attend conferences and board meetings but it's a much smaller percentage of my time. Before this, I was a paralegal. Some of those skills are how I got this job. I've really enjoyed both. Government benefits are also very good.
What I like about these jobs is that there's a general structure around the kind of tasks I do that provides stability, but each individual case is different so it also provides enough novelty that I don't get bored. Another important thing is I'm always busy. There's nothing I hate more than feeling my soul slowly drain out of my body while watching the clock waiting for quitting time. With these jobs, it's usually more like "oh, it's 5:00 already??"
I’m a preschool teacher and a picture book illustrator!
Preschool is great bc illustration isn’t always consistent with payment and I get to have fun all day and still be creative. I will always keep preschool as a day job.
Illustration is great because it’s creative, I set my own schedule, I can listen to things while I work, take as many breaks as I want, and I get a cool physical end product out of it. I love both these jobs but ideally I’d be doing illustration all the time.
I build props for company events. It’s really hard to explain briefly but essentially I work in a warehouse that has hundreds of props. Companies reach out to us and we deliver and assemble those props based on the event they are having. For example we recently did 3ft tall Rubik’s cubes and a 16ft tall boombox for an 80s themed event.
Among the props we already have, we are also constantly building new ones. It’s a very creative job and every day is different. I love that it’s physical too because I don’t really have to build in separate time to work out, but I am able to stay relatively fit. It’s so cool to see the background of events too!
Similar jobs to mine are people doing stage hand work. It’s not too hard to get into if you contact the theater union in your area! And the unions usually pay pretty well. Then you can help set up concerts and theater productions. Another similar job is anything in event coordination.
Pharmacist, owning a pharmacy in a remote place (far away from city). Been a few months and the burnout is real, that's why recently I kinda overdid my work (put "unnecessary" upgrade and service) to make it more fun (to me).
Is it fulfilling? I don't know. Financially I am doing fine and mentally it's pretty monotonous. That's why I am going to try something else in the near future, brew, make and mix "jamu" (herbal concoction, although I still have no funds to make it big haha); delve deeper into mysticism (my grandma was a shaman) and "research" them through scientific pov (I know it'll end up bad, very bad); or maybe ... I dont know, anything, I'll do anything, because it's so monotonous to the point I'd visit the patients by myself so they wouldn't skip their meds rather than sitting here all day all the time.
I am already 23 and I am 100% sure I'll change my career soon cause I can't stand the burnout. Not sure it'll work out tho, changing career here is hellish, passed 25 yo and 90% of opportunities will close.
Almost similar story to mine, im a banker at 21 now, before I was a server for a restaurant and before that I was a masoner. All jobs were great until I learned them all and got bored. My role involves making calls and reaching out to businesses and talk about how we can benefit them but even then that isn’t fulfilling
Professor. Overwhelming at times, but it works for me because of the flexibility and how stimulating it can be (different research projects, new students every semester, etc.)
I work in retail. I've also taught, been a professional floral designer. Retail really is the best for me, I've done it so long, nothing phases me. I just zone out and do my thing. Always something to do. I can't have a job that uses a lot of executive function. Retail only sucks if you're insecure, care too much, or want a lot of money. I prefer to use my brain and talent at home.
i burnt out of retail several years ago, found my calling as a landscaper and nursery worker. im also autistic so i always struggled with authority and “truths”. you can’t get more truthful that the natural world and its beings that have evolved over millions of years to live in the environment they’re from, along side neighborly plants, insects, and animals. the tough part is dealing with ignorant ppl, those who simply must have a yard full of asian and european invasives. other than that it’s incredibly stimulating and the most sustainable career i’ve found so far
I’m a journalist. I don’t do well on the days I’m stuck in the office with busy work - I do better on days when I’m out in the field gathering materials and spending half my time in the office writing. I don’t do great being stagnant.
Software engineer but starting next week I am officially jobless
And tbf not one bit motivated to get a job again like at all. But I eventually will have to.
Does it fulfill me? Not in the slightest anymore. Corporate environment ruined my passion for building software. I just want to reach financial independence and call it a day to live life on my terms and that's it.
This is obv seasonal, but I'm a Summer Camp Director for a computer science camp. I get to run things how I want and I get the right amount of stimulation. I'm never bored because there's always something happening (behavior issues, injuries, curriculum help), and I never need to sit down and focus on something for an hour.
Speech pathologist! I haven’t started yet but it’ll be my first job post grad school working with kids doing home health so I’ll get to bounce around all day and make my own schedule which sounds great
I'm a cook in a nursing home kitchen. Worked my way up to sous chef. Every day is a little like a puzzle, and my tasks are varied enough to be interesting. The best and worst part is people come to me with all sorts of problems, some of which are outside my wheelhouse and others are super simple. There's a lot of variety in tasks, but I also leave my work at work. Plus, many of the skills I've learned are useful in everyday life. Just wish it paid more.
I don't want to work in a restaurant. The hours I have let me live my life, and both chefs I've been under left that life so they could HAVE a life. Having said that, I do work most holidays
I’m a therapist at a nonprofit working with kids and families dealing with trauma. I can make my own schedule and decide what days I work and how many clients I have which is nice. The parts I struggle with are keeping up with documentation and remembering to prep more than 10 minutes before a session 💀 one of my biggest symptoms is memory issues so I frequently forget the majority of the interventions or activities I can use with clients until after the fact lmao but they’re still making progress and still coming back so I figure I’m doing something right 😂
I actually recently went to get medicated to help with work stuff… only to be diagnosed with moderate-severe OCD that has to be treated first, so. It appears I will struggle with adhd interfering with work for a while longer.
Although I work with special needs kids as a creative arts therapist, I relate to this so hard. I struggle with shame over not remembering details from previous sessions, and not being great with detailed session planning , but I also see them coming back again and again, building great relationships with them, and their parents satisfied, so I know I must be doing something right! It’s like I’m able to get on their level instantly because I’m forever a kid at heart,
and being spontaneous with them, exactly as they are, is exactly what’s needed a lot of the time. I don’t work like other by the book therapists, but I’m good at it in my own ramshackle kind of way lol
Roofing. I learned originally how to use an air nailer but I got on with a crew that did hand nailing and that’s what I’ve stuck with. I find myself very satisfied with my job as it’s the perfect blend of routine and chaos. Every roof is the same, but different. Every nail I pound in is the same, but different. It’s physically exhausting work and repetitive enough my brain can wander into distraction but has to come back to focus on certain tasks which helps to ground me mentally. Nobody should ever be a career roofer but it’s been a good gig these last couple years and my body can definitely handle another few years of it while I consider my next steps in life
Im a journeyman electrician/ first year instrumentation tech at an osb mill. I do inspections, thermal imaging, PLC work, work on temperature, pressure and level sensors, 3 phase motors up to 4160volts , and troubleshooting to get the mill running again. It was tough trying to learn all that stuff, im a bit of a slow learner but it was worth it and it pays very well.
I don't tell them anymore that I have ADHD. They just think I'm brilliant and creative. I do web design and e-learning. I use ai to help me do js in my e-learning and they think I'm brilliant.
Civil litigation. There are actually a lot of personal injury lawyers with ADHD. Most need a good paralegal though to help them keep organized and keep track of deadlines. It’s amazing having a paralegal though. She writes the boring parts of legal stuff and I just write the fun parts (the arguments). She also manages the filing and 90% of the paperwork (subpoenas, deposition notices, etc).
There’s a high barrier to entry though in the U.S. and a lot of other countries.
Theatre, admin/producer and an actor when I have time. I've worked Front of House for festivals and major events for years, it's great because it's basically the same structure so it's easy to repeat but each event is unique and different and it's very fast-paced. For the last few years, I have been with a small team that runs a huge 12-day festival every summer with hundreds of performances, hundreds of artists, tens of thousands of attendees. It's exhausting but it's fun
Honestly I’ve never had a job where I haven’t suffered burnout. It’s just part of me to go too hard and give too much, even with ‘easy’ jobs.
I’m currently work in circulation in a public library (not a librarian, I could never commit to 4 year bachelors plus 2 year masters without changing my mind 10 times). I don’t know if this is universal but in my library system, there’s a great balance of routine and novelty. Every day there are routine tasks that need to get done that provide some structure to the day, but the patron needs, the seasons, the in-branch events and programming, even just the materials we’re handling provide novelty.
I’m now a supervisor in this setting and to be honest it doesn’t work as well for my ADHD as the entry level circulation assistant work did. I do have more freedom to follow my interests and strengths, but I have more responsibility and because it’s “my branch” I do twice as much work as I need to because I’m proud of my branch and want it to be amazing (plus im a perfectionist who can’t delegate so…). I’m also expected to be available to staff and patrons all the time so it’s incredibly difficult to focus.
Designer here; aspects of design are way easier with ADHD but obviously the sedentary aspects are brutal, I used to be a PM and that was a lot easier. I will say however, I’m at Xbox currently and it feels like 40-50 percent of the designers have ADHD
Personal weeder (I make bank) in the meantime as I got dropped from my farming job due to injury *on the job*. But come winter I’ll need a more full time job for sure. But i bring home about $250-$300 a day so I’m chillin. Hope it’s a long summer!🤞🏻
33F as well struggling with this!!!! I am a nurse with 4 degrees so a lot of random work experience and man... keeping a job is sooooo hard. 1. for me I have a low threshhold for bullshit (i,.e. shitty managers lol) but 2. like I HAVE to be using my brain and learning and applying this- and feeling the dead end nature of a job sink in sucks! I am a nurse educator now but it is a corporate job where they are just sales focused and it sucksssss. I dont have advice but the top comment- engineering- funny becuase I have been watching youtube videos on engineering, quantum computing, and physics. We will figure it out somehow girl! but apart from ADHD I think it is hard to take out purpose from a job and find things outside of work that matter.
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Project management and I work from home. WFH has been the ticket for me because I can slack off 1-2 days a week, allowing me the break and mental rest that helps me stay highly productive on the other days. My company cares more about results than about micromanaging what we are doing, so it’s worked out really well. Project management has been a good fit because it is basically ADHD in a job. I have to constantly jump from task to task and keep track of tons of details that have no relation to one another. Once I figured out the right notes system, I have been killing it.
“My company cares more about results than about micromanaging what we are doing” More important than specific career or industry, regardless of ADHD status…
Yes absolutely
What’s your note-taking system. I’ve recently taken a job promotion to a Project manager and I’ve been questioning the fit solely due to my ADHD. I’ve always felt due to my work ethic and some learning abilities I can do anything but project management on the organization side has been a tremendous challenge for me.
I just take ridiculously detailed notes. Who, what, when, where, why, and how for everything. It is tedious but it saves me a lot of time later when I go back and don’t have to decipher wtf happened with something I don’t remember anymore. I’ve been in that situation too many times to cut corners anymore on notes. There are a lot of project management software programs that you can use to organize your notes but it does take some time and intelligence to set one up in a way that works and makes sense for whatever you’re doing. If you inherited something that isn’t working for you, it might be worth the trouble to either rebuild it or move to another software that works better for your needs.
I think the key part is to always dedicate time to doing your notes properly. The thing that causes note systems to fail is when you aren't able to do that, so your notes stay in the short hand that you jotted them down in, and the problem metastasizes at some point.
Same for me…. Implementation Manager. Getting a grip on the various levels of documentation was a challenge because I hate it all, but the joy I get from not worrying anymore has slowly turned that around. It’s a weird dance. But project management is aces, and can be decently lucrative, too. CANNOT echo enough how managing my own schedule aids to my success.
What’re some tips/tricks you’d suggest for project management and managing the long, drawn out due dates and managing multiple projects that are each at different stages? I was doing this along with implementation but I found it extremely difficult and would procrastinate too much, ultimately burning out.
This is not really helpful but you just can’t procrastinate. I make a list of things each day that I want to get done and include a mix of desirable and undesirable tasks. Then I just do it (usually in order and check them off as I go). Being medicated has helped a lot and so has having slack off days. I’m definitely not perfect though, it’s hard.
Engineering, honestly ADHD does wonders at seeing every possible solution to a problem
Even creating solutions that didn’t exist
For real though, this is definitely one of the reasons you'll find so many talented developers/engineers have ADHD. I just got told last week by my project manager and VP that I'm doing a great job on my **_extremely late_** project because every time some problem comes up I'm 2 steps ahead and already working on another solution before they know there's a problem.
Like when i am given a list of parameters, specs and equipment then told to go at. Its soooo much fun, i am jaming out to music having a blast. Its like crack lol i am lucky i found a job i love and get paid well for it
What sort of engineering do you do? I am exiting the military in a few years, and I need a plan. I have very broad interests, but I’m not especially passionate about any particular thing and your description sounds appealing.
I'm a manufacturing process engineer, you get to design new methods for making things, find ways to improve existing manufacturing lines, and work with cool machines and automation. I love it! If you like "how things work" engineering will be great for you.
Design engineer, i handle the project from concept to fabrication. The project engineer handles the equipment selection, sizing, custom interactions and ordering I am essentially just given bunch of equipment and a schematic on what goed to what. Then i just design it I occasionally have to do drawings which isnt challenging so i find it boring
Yeah, dream job right there!
> Even creating _problems_ that didn't exist Ftfy
Software dev here and yep, problem solving is my main strength. I love finding a solution, especially if no one else thought of it
also a dev. i sometimes get so into my work that an hour or two after putting earbuds in my ears i realise that i didn’t click on play. :D i’ve tried listening to podcasts and audio books, but i just zone out and miss out on everything. i really enjoy listening to music while i work, but not sure how i’m fine with music — i’m even learning the words to the ukrainian songs in my playlists. my hours are usually 5-14:30 and that’s great, but being up so early every day is what i think causes some issues for me. i tend to go to bed a bit late sometimes and then after a while i start missing stuff at home or forgetting something my wife asked me to do or just go on autopilot when she talks to me and completely miss the conversation. i tend to get shat on often for all that. :|
Software eng here - I specifically love thinking of how to build something object oriented. Been working on a solo project for work lately (like a mini tool/program) and it's been *heaven*
Also, dyslexia is insanely common amongst expert engineers
Environmental engineering field here. My background is geology (undergrad) and environmental science (grad school). The bulk of what I do is related to data analysis and modeling/GIS related remote sensing type stuff along with some project management. My ADHD allows me to analyze the shit out of things and multi task at a level that my coworkers think is super human. The only downside is that I have a hard time letting things go and can get caught up with perfection -- I have to constantly remind myself "don't let perfect be the enemy of good".
Same here, and luckily I'm in a position where I can come up with inventive ideas to issues, keeps the job fresh and reduces burnout which I do get occasionally when I'm doing repetitive or mundane tasks
That or CS, I feel like data science and machine learning projects have much quicker results then engineering projects. Personally for me I struggle with patience sometimes, especially when learning new skills. I also feel like a lot of people with ADHD also struggle with that.
agreed
Ditto for engineering! I love my job, but I struggled a lot before I was medicated.
Went in to engineering cause my brain works like that too. Got what I thought was my dream job. Unfortunately I discovered my field was not what I wanted as a life long career. Constantly having to figure out other people's problems with zero pay increase for the additonal workload drove me nuts. Might have been better with a different company but I had burned out so hard I left the field altogether.
There were several times during my five years of working as a tech in a cancer hospital pharmacy (making chemo and the like) that the pharmacists would be hand wringing and freaking out about something... and then I'd walk by and make a suggestion and they'd all look at each other like, "what do I have this degree for if okpickle can figure this out and I can't?!" As a very underemployed person at the time, it was quite satisfying. I now work as a documentation specialist in the regulatory department of a medical school. Organizing things. How ironic is that?!
I’m a teacher! The burnout is real in general for teachers and sometimes it’s waaaaay too much stimulation for me. However, I do really like that I can run my classroom however I want! I have a lot of freedom on how it’s structured and relate a lot to my ADHD students :) If I feel too overwhelmed, I can switch gears on the activity we’re doing.
I’m a teacher too and I love it. It’s different every day and only parts of it are boring (report cards) and those parts only happen a couple times a year . I would really like to own my own business, but I don’t know if I have the discipline for it, the structure of school is good for me. I have difficulty imagining myself doing anything else!
I'll add I'm a college professor and I agree with these sentiments about teaching. So from the K-College it seems there's some commonality here. A lot of independence in the classroom, to choose how and what you teach. You need to be good on your feet and a good speaker, and in my case know your advanced subject well (special interest). The research side is more challenging bc you need consistent discipline without structure but there are many mostly teaching gigs.
Special education teacher here! Having ADHD and working with atypical kids is wonderful. Having ADHD and working with adults that are either high masking & in denial or typical is exhausting.
Same and 100%
Yes! Specifically I’m an elementary music teacher, and it’s a great fit for me.
I’m a kindergarten teacher!! I feel the same way
Whaaat, I’m a middle school band teacher! Music Ed ftw
SpeechProf on various platforms introduced me to the ableism I was imposing in my classroom, and I didn't even know I was doing things that would have hurt ME in the same situation. Good on you, fellow teacher fam!!!
Middle school science teacher here. Burn out is very real, especially in education. But I love teaching cuz I know I would lose my mind if I were stuck behind a desk looking at a computer screen for 8 hours a day. There's schedule and routine, which is good for like the parts of us that need structure. But the students also bring an element of surprise everyday that keeps me on my toes. Sure, I k ow generally what the day will look like, but having to figure out specifics on the fly when dealing with students is fun too. I like the balance. Of course, having really bad executive dysfunction, I find it REALLY hard to plan my lessons like super far in advance, but I'm working on it😅
Im studying to become a teacher right now 🩷. I was self-employed for the last 6 years and let me tell you, I cant WAIT to be with kids all the time. Im so tired and Currently not working because clients drained me so much ( im a nail tech btw) and It gave me a burn-out lol …. But dealing with ADULT WOMAN acting like KIDS is WAY WORSE than dealing with a class full of kids 🩷. Thank you for posting your answer, it confirms that im making the right choice for my life xx
You’ve got this! I can’t imagine being self employed :0 you sound very resilient and I’m sure you’ll make a great teacher :)
Medical doctor recently diagnosed with ADHD. And depression. And anxiety. Honestly, it's been overwhelming for me to say the least. The stress has gotten so bad that I was advised to take a break for a while. I'm really just trying to get back on my feet at the moment.
I’m a lawyer diagnosed at 50. The stress-related anxiety and depression (and shutdown) were what led me to to get diagnosed so I can relate. If you’re like, you worked on caffeine and stress. That works until it doesn’t. Take the time and get your life in order. There’s a lot of work to do. Meds can take a while to get straight. Work on systems that will compensate. CBT is supposed to be effective, but other therapy probably works. Get your sleep in order — maybe even a sleep study.
*”you worked on caffeine and stress. That works until it doesn’t”* Why do you have to call me out like that?
Can you elaborate on the sleep study part?
I actually addressed this in a recent post. People with ADHD tend to have more sleep disorders than other people- insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg, etc. Unfortunately, poor sleep seems to exacerbate adhd symptoms for many people (me included). I happened to be diagnosed with sleep apnea about a decade before ADHD and I think it helped me compensate. A sleep study will diagnose these conditions. Sometimes it’s stay at a facility over night, sometimes it’s an at home thing. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mental-health/adhd-and-sleep
I would also like to add the higher possibility of circadian rhythm disorders. They are less well known and often overlooked. Please read the rest in a pharmacy ad voice: Do you struggle to sleep or wake at "normal" times but still find you sleep the appropriate amount of time when left to your own schedule? Do you often feel like you have jet lag in the mornings? If you sleep very little and must wake up in the morning are you tired almost all day but then as soon as the evening hits you are wide awake again? Then talk to your doctor about "delayed sleep phase syndrome" or "delayed circadian rhythm"
My PCP just told me that he has adhd. For what it’s worth, as a patient, I trust him even more now, because I know he understands me. I also enjoy meeting with him because we have some similar interests and will have our little adhd conversations where we both get excitable. 😆 Take time to get back on your feet, and know that if you choose to stay in the field, there are many of us who would be relieved to have you as our doctor.
Found out my pcp has ADHD too. Requested for a referral and she told me she had it too but doesn't talk about it a lot cause there are still people that stigmatize it. Told her I felt the same way and she said if I'm feeling like I have it she wanted to help 100% with no judgement. Straight hugged that lady cause I knew she got it. TLDR: When you find a good pcp stay with them.
Pharmacist here…officially diagnosed at 46. ADHD, severe depression, anxiety. I’ve had severe depressive episodes every 2-3-4 years since I was 20. Needed ECT once. Started on Vyvanse last week. Absolute night and day difference in brain function. I can’t even describe it. It’s like the lights are on…finally. Feel free to pm!
Literally same as me, I was prescribed Benzos and now I can’t even function like a normal human
Recommend getting off the bennys. Terrible stuff, ending in dementia.
emergency medicine doctor here. also burned out. i work part time
Sitting in A&E trainee taching all day and looking round the room: adhd is definitely palpable 😂
Same here. The burnout is real. I'm also taking leave from clinical medicine to deal with *gestures wildly* all of this. As shitty as the circumstances are, you're definitely not alone (despite what the stigma might want you to believe.)
Student about to enter the program for my RN. Also applied to a few hospitals to work as a PCT and have some interviews lined up. I'm genuinely terrified but my passion for science and helping people is too strong to give up. Let yourself rest, but come back. We need you. Especially those of us who are also struggling with those things.
I do online grocery at a Walmart. Been doing it for about 7 years now. Prior to that I was a stocker. Stocking I didn't like too much because I would zone out in between each case so would stock, or I would start reading the labels of things I was stocking. Online grocery is so much easier for me because I'm constantly focused on finding my next item on my handheld. It's kind of like playing a game for me. Also when it comes to seeing how fast I can finish each order. It also helps that we're allowed to wear one earbud so I have podcasts or music in my ear which is a big help to keep myfeom mind wondering.
this sounds like a dream job for my adhd brain. too bad where i live we have no jobs like those available
I work for myself as a house cleaner. I’m not one of the gifted ADHDers, so my options are limited. It’s decent money, but I’m switching to dog walking soon and eventually I want to own a doggy daycare.
Pet sitting is so great! I did it since 2017. If you live in a city you can make a lot of money doing it. People really want to have sitters stay in their home overnight with their pets rather than boarding them. Good luck to you!! You can do it!
Thank you so much!! I think I can too, and getting to hang out with dogs all day will be so good for my mental health
Hi there. I have considered doing this and would love some tips on how to build this kind of business. Any advice?
Let your friends or family or colleagues know that you’re doing this. Create a personal brand on social. Contact pet shops. Let them know about yourself and share your social handles. Engage with your target audience on their social.
Same, been solo cleaning for a few years now. I like the immediate gratification of a job well done and I get to listen to podcasts. Dog walking sounds like a good gig too. Like, almost too much fun to be getting paid for lol
IT, I'm a Solution Architect. I specifically work in-house for a large privately owned company, delivering internally focused projects for them. It has its ups and downs. My projects vary a fair bit, so I find the variety of topics interesting and because I need to research the thing I'm designing a solution for I essentially get paid to fall down rabbit holes of research. I also get to see these projects through to completion, which I find very rewarding. I much prefer that instead of handing everything off and dusting my hands of it all. What I do find annoying: announced changes. I'm really, really good at adapting to sudden random variances into my work but if you come to me several weeks/months into the thing and tell me there's been a scope creep or a decision about something has been reversed, I will not be pleased. And documentation *SUUUUUUUCKS*. I really have to force myself to do this properly, because I retain a buttload of old project information in my head (and my inbox) but still I don't give enough respect to the time needed to write everything down for someone else to use. This is partly a me thing, and also partly a behaviour I've just gotten into after years of being the only person responsible for designing, building, and then maintaining the thing. I'm also secretly hoping generative AI development will hurry up and get to the point that I can converse with my computer about the project solution and the documentation will just write itself.
"And documentation SUUUUUUUCKS. I really have to force myself to do this properly, because I retain a buttload of old project information in my head (and my inbox) but still I don't give enough respect to the time needed to write everything down for someone else to use." Get out of my head!
This does sound pretty great up until that damn documentation
SAP consultant here, great projects when I get to be technical and hands on, am absolute nightmare when I'm just making powerpoints and babysitting offshore resource. Will just check out mentally very fast from this kind of position. Why I tend to do more dev work nowadays and go techno-functional.
Love seeing the IT ones in this thread as I study for the A+ exam to try and get into the field
I’m a IT Manager. I have been in IT for 22 years. It pays great but is a very busy job. I have to take notes on everything in every meeting or I’ll forget what I’m supposed to do.
Same here! getting out of full sentence sometimes is extremely difficult. Onenote is my very best friend ever
My desk has yellow post-it notes stuck everywhere as reminders lol. But after awhile they become background noise. Without meds this job is extremely difficult
Post-it notes are our saviors... I have a sort of a Kanban board on my desk with sticky notes. If I have too many I get overwhelmed and stop doing... If they're there for too long (too long being from a few hours to a couple weeks), then they don't exist anymore, even being there.... Till the glue gives up and it get shoved under something. Months after I find it. At this point reactions are random.... "Oh fuck", "What the fuck?", "No fucks" and "hell yeah!!" Are frequent ones. The virtual ones don't work. *EDIT: syntax errors
I’m also a Solution Architect - between jobs at the moment but hoping to land a senior SA role with a well known cloud provider. Re documentation, what I generally do is brain dump everything from my programmes and projects into Notion and split into contexts like business processes, data architecture, applications and components, platforms, hosting and technologies and security. I can then link any relevant bits of info together so I end up with a somewhat chaotic but mapped out view of the architecture that makes sense in my head. With the all the data I can get very specific with gen ai to create sections of documentation and tweak accordingly. This approach has pretty much saved my life
YES!!! I have been rethinking my workflow too and had the idea last night of using AI to summarize code blocks and write documentation for them! I don't mind writing documentation, but I would rather be working out solutions to other bugs/features instead. Plus, I have used AI in the past to rewrite work emails to be less ADHD rambly. Maybe it can do the same thing for my documentation?
I've been doing restaurant work for over a decade and I love it. Currently I manage a cafe in the financial district of the city I live in and it's the only job I've ever had where I don't wake up in the morning dreading going to work. It has solid routines so I feel comfortable knowing how my day will be structured but every day is different enough that I don't get bored with it. Since I'm the manager I get to run things in a way that works for me so I make my own accommodations. Sure, there are other things I'd rather be doing but on the tier list of jobs I could have this one isn't so bad.
Fast food chain worker here. 10 years in a restaurant, I was in many of them. Structure - yes, difference - yes. Especially when you are a late shift worker. There's a routine you've been scheduled and a lot of emotions from funny drunk people. Speaking of burning out. In 2019, my dad died, I was pretty depressed because we spoke every day 30+ minutes, and I can say he was my best friend. At that moment our restaurant was really toxic environment, I wanted to quit. But I was send as support to another city, and there I realized that the problem was not in me or my job, but actually in all of the people in my restaurant, so I've changed a restaurant and found new great people. The End.
31. Live in Portland. The last time I held a desk job was when I was 25. Also got so burned out I had a nervous breakdown. I work at two bars now - and while a job is a job and jobs often suck - I really, really feed off the fast, social, and unpredictability of working as a bartender. I'm medicated - but for me my ADHD helps me at work, and being able to repurpose the issues with cognition benefits me outside of the bar as well.
I had a similar experience with a desk job. I just can’t do it. I own a food truck now and the fast paced service part is awesome. The actual business side (bookkeeping, permits, taxes, etc) is a struggle for me.
this is why I am becoming a bookkeeper, I want to help people like you with the bookkeeping parts so they can focus on following their passions!
Lawyer. Burnout is very very real. I have always, and have come to accept will always, put my family ahead of my career, and when things are chaotic at home I can’t just put it aside. So I’ve never left the profession but I’ve changed jobs and now I’m back to running my own firm. With that said, I’ve put everything I’ve learned into action and am pushing my own values hard (kindness, respect) and doing all the things that feel right to me, and I am seeing signs it’s going to be a huge success. So I can put my family first, work hard at something I believe in, and have a flexible schedule. I really need to start taking better care of myself. I’ve been spinning and lost for the last few years because my life has been on fire. I got shingles. So I’m starting with gentle self care. Meditation every day. I set my intention before I start work. I’ve always been good about taking my meds but I’m getting way better at vitamins. Next step is exercise and physical health. I have a plan with my therapist. I’m going to get there. Whatever your job, you need to figure out how to do it in a way that works for you ❤️
Great appreciation from me to you. What continent/state do you work in, and which Legal Practice? I'm a young lawyer too and I've already had to change 3 law firms and take a break in between because I was in burnout (and depression). The demand for performance is really high, and the pressure too. I like to practice law, but I think the environment in law firms is too heavy for an ADHD (inattentive). I am slow to read and type what is in my head, whether it is a deed, research or opinion, while the speed of execution required by bosses is too much for me. I need my own time to process and write. (There is also the in-house legal option, but I don't know how the environment is ). Have you had similar experiences? do you think opening your law firm is the best solution for an ADHD? finding clients on your own, not having an "organized structure" but having to create it yourself (without, otherwise you don't create routines), are all heavy challenges. What advice would you kindly give me? Btw i work with tax law and corporate law (maybe it is the practice that doesn't work for me). If I were to open my own practice I would do medical malpractice. I feel it is something "more human" and where you can really help people (In corporate law I feel little value/meaning for me) Thanks in advance!!
Nurse. Perfect for me. I like helping people and shifts go by fast because I stay busy.
I’m also a nurse and thought there would be more people saying this! I’ve had a lot of different jobs in my 6 years as a nurse, which might not be great but I appreciate there’s always something new to learn.
If you can find a way into the film industry, which is the hardest bit of the whole thing (look up skill building and entry level programs, depends which country you are in) you'll love it. Most jobs are creative, fast paced and hands on with lots of novelty. I managed to work my way up for nearly a decade undiagnosed and unmedicated.
33, diagnosed at 30. I've worked my way up the art department for the past 8 to 10 years and it's everything I need, you get to solve problems, be creative, every job is different from the last. I tend to prefer commercials, because i usually lose interest after a few months into a movie or tv show, but i guess that depends on the person.
haven't had a real job in over a decade
I’m well on my way to saying this myself. Crazy how fast it goes by.
Everyday is cake day for you
I've bounced around from warehousing, construction labouring and IT but most recent / longest position is GIS mapping which I find enjoyable. Combines my two favourite aspects, data & design
Quality assurance and risk management for a clinical software developer. I love my job but sometimes the documentation is just sooo boring and thus hard for me to start.
Senior leader in education. Biology teacher at heart, but now assistant head of college for data and assessment.
Corporate trainer. I love it because training is often like telling a story and I am able to create my training materials, PowerPoint, e-learning storyboards, AI video. The ability to be creative and dive into a project where I can hyperfocus and see the awesome outcome, and then used regularly, I love it. However, same as others, I hate documentation.
Do you implement structures and guidelines?? I recently have been pondering what kind of position I could do that in. I love to break things down into clear steps… and make it into a guidebook to follow. Bullet points and flow charts make me really happy. lol.
I've been self employed for almost a decade and I don't think I could ever work a 'normal' job again. I've done a lot of different things during this time period, but always working for myself. 10/10.
What kinds of things do you do?? I started out on this path, and I’m on a “gap year” of sorts at the moment. Just curious what other options there are on this route.
There are unlimited options. Almost any skill you have or are willing to learn can be a self-employment path for you. I've done a lot of art-related things - making and selling jewelry, clothing, paintings, etc. I've done a lot of pet care and childcare. The past couple years I was doing freelance web design, but that's slowed down a lot so I'm pivoting. The world is your oyster :)
I work with profoundly disabled adults, help them with independence and learning. I only got diagnosed with ADHD at the start of the month at 38 years old! I also have Tourettes syndrome, and a condition called idiopathic Hypersomnia. Which makes life a challenge at times.
Do you like what you do for work?
Yes! A decade in and still very much enjoying it! Used to work in construction, but had a career change in 2013. Do you like what you do for work?
I’m taking a break from work while I figure out what’s next, but no I didn’t like the last thing. Health care. The stress was too much.
Acting is what suits me best but the rejection sensitivity makes it hard to audition. I run an office for a one person business, play in a band, and sell at conventions. I used to be in Fortune 500 marketing but I was getting sick from anxiety (I wasn’t diagnosed yet) I’ve owned retail stores. It’s good because you hire good people to do the things you’re weakest at and you have a different sense of responsibility to making sure the store survives so your staff get paid
I am about your age and I have done so many different jobs. Started out as a teacher. Left that after two years and went to a call center. Left that and did AmeriCorps for a year. Got hired at the nonprofit to do outreach and grants work. Left that to go back to teaching. Left teaching to work at a university. The thing is, all of those previous experiences (maybe except the call center) gave me the experience for the job I have (and love!) right now. I just need a change every few years. It’s hard! I’m hoping I’ve found my forever job (or at least long term job) because I really enjoy it.
I have worked as an artist, teacher, server, fund raiser and now am in an admin position where I wfh. Teaching was my favorite. Sitting at a desk is slowly killing me.
I work in tech project management as a consultant. **TLDR** Honestly, I love my job. At the end of the day, I’ve juggled so many things that my brain has been fully engaged, I usually change projects/clients/industries every 12-16 months (ooooooo shiny!) while staying with the same employer, I’m paid a comfortable salary and I can work remotely whenever I want/need to, which is invaluable for someone who has both ADHD *and* MS (yay). **More details:** My job requires me to: - think about business problems and structure operational solutions with my little brain - be completely autonomous and proactive in how I organize my workload and my tasks to secure my deadlines (this is hard, yo) - keep on top of my deliverables’ timeline OR communicate effectively and early enough about delays to agree on deprioritizing some of my workload This is only client-side. On top of my client engagement, I also: - manage a team of consultants at my consulting firm - make sure my consulting firm remembers I exist (cause they’re the ones deciding how much I get paid, not my client) so organizing or participating in business development or other time consuming initiatives Highly recommend if you want a well paying job that’s flexible and intellectually engaging.
teacher, undiagnosed, struggling a lot with staying organised and keeping deadlines. hoping a diagnosis and medication will help
It will, I think it’s what made being a teacher in k-8 so tiresome. Medicated and in HS and it’s much more my speed
Emergency services. Due to physical health reasons I now have a desk job but I’m managing higher risk, like managing risk to life within collapsing time frame. I can be a little creative with how I tackle problems, but it’s not enough to scratch that creative itch. It fulfils everything else but I can’t manage well in an office environment without either heavily masking, or medication. So anyway I have an Etsy business in the side!
Just lost my job, worst thing I ever done in my life. I was in management at retail. In school, idk how long that will take.
From a fellow retail management alum, congrats on getting out! I hope your next career is much more fulfilling!
I work on Hollywood tv and movie sets. I’m not sure if fulfilling is the right word (that has more to do with growing out of the notion your job is supposed to give you that feeling) but I like it most days. It is still a job and it’s a job that not everyone can do. Lots of ADHD and mental health outcasts in it tho
I’ve never had a career. Just jobs I like that pay well. Usually burn out within two years, go on a medical leave, look for another job, and start again. I just try to find work that involves as few people as possible. Finally working from home and this time it might work.
Creative Director in Advertising. Started as an Art Director in the creative department 20 years ago. I think the constant chaos and deadlines allowed me to stay hyperfocused and unmedicated for many years. Got to travel the world, work on fun brands, make silly commercials, and live in several countries. But long hours and weekends lead to serious burnout no matter how fun it could be at times. Ive been freelance WFH for about 6 years now which is awesome, but my ADHD and ability to focus got really bad with my new found “work life balance” so I’ve started medication after not taking it for 25 years. Seems to be helping. I was treated with SSRI’s and Benzos for panic disorder the past 10 years and it wasn’t fixing the problem. Started ADHD meds and they seem to be lifting that which feels like a miracle. I think finding the thing that you love doing, even if you can’t do it as a full time job, is super important to make time for. For me it was also painting.
I think the problem is working culture in many countries. Folks with ADHD need more downtime than many others & working the hours that most people do is just too much. I'm working 37.5 hours per week & I love my job. I've done similar jobs in the past, working more hours & not been happy.
Sex work 😎 Besides having to deal with idiot men on the regular, I love it. Make my own schedule, set my own rules, and I can chew/kick out anyone I want for any reason I want (with limits, gotta keep a good reputation). Only gotta mask for 1-2hrs at a time.
I’m in advertising and marketing. All my clients are the devil - big pharma. Specifically I work in the TV/Streaming environment. I know, we all *love* to see pharma ads over and over again! /s The work is highly stressful, dealing with multi million dollar budgets and needing to exceed client KPIs. Any slip up and you’re the one falling on the sword. There’s some things I enjoy about the work, like analytics and figuring out “problems”, because it allows me to hyper-focus on things. I also really love the agency I work at so that makes things a bit better. I don’t even know how I ended up in this field tbh lmao.
Ah agencies. I am on the publisher side and our agency people say they have the worst times lol. The turn over for them is insane. Every six months we are talking to a brand new team. A LOT of my coworkers used to work at agencies like PHM and Havas so it explains a lot.
I’ve spent my entire career as a technical writer/instructional designer, which means I get to create lots of e-learning and training material for people. I was diagnosed in my mid 60s!!! I still love what I do, but I realized that while I do love trains, my hyperfocus is office procedures and computer systems, which worked out very very well for me. The subject of the learning is always something different and that keeps me interested and the methodology is always the same, which keeps me grounded. I do joke that my life is a careful balance of Xanax and Vyvanse.
FM Radio Program Director & On-Air Personality. Has given me a creative outlet for nearly 30 years while also offering just enough structure to keep me on-pointe & meeting deadlines. The desk in my office still has 5 different lists on it at all times, but thanks to its balance of routine & organized chaos Radio has been an incredibly ADHD-friendly career.
Formerly: retail pharmacy manager. Cirrently: pharmacy technician in my last semester of my MSW. Hoping to be a therapist in about 8 to 10 months.
I work at a library and it’s the first job I’ve actually enjoyed.
I got fired, and my job is the futile task of staving off depression while facing rejection after rejection after rejection and seeing the rest of my family making money.
SAME. It’s a rough job market right now. I’ve just accepted my depression at this point and I allow myself to marinate in it for a few hours every day 🥴 I’ve also been lying to recruiters and prospective employers and saying I left out of my own volition, and the lying makes me feel physically ill.
Relate a lot. And sorry for what you're also going through. It's very tough at the moment :( Trying to get back in touch with some of the activities that make me really happy, and see how I can make those skills marketable ...what a gross word. Anyway, best of luck to you!
I’m a Library Assistant! This role has been so nourishing for me as I have an established routine, get to work alone, quiet, and can support the community. I rarely get bored because this job helps me research my hyper fixations as well ☺️ I’m now preparing to apply for grad school to become a Librarian/Archivist 😁
I work as a public librarian and i love it so much. Its so varied and i basically never get sensory overload at work because libraries are naturally pretty chill 😊
Freelance musician and music educator. Never need to sit still for long and I'm really good at it... except the admin.
I have skipped around different jobs for my entire life. At 38 years old, I have had over fifty jobs since I started working at 16. I have always had jobs, never a career. Restaurant work, call centers, a brief period when I was way younger where I got certified as a CNA, but I have never had a job where I was not telling myself that I really needed to get my shit together enough to go back to school or find something that I was able to support my family with. I didn’t get diagnosed until I was in my thirties, and I struggled really badly with my mental health. Emotional disregulation and extreme rsd ruled my whole world until very recently, and while I at least know what is happening in order to try and work through it now, it’s still there, and still a huge struggle. I would leave jobs out of *”just knowing”* that everyone hated me, or because I made a single mistake or said one embarrassing thing and my anxiety would push me to quit because I was afraid of being fired. I get anxiety during interviews, suck at eye contact and my resume has no real value because of how many shitty short term jobs I’ve had. But I’m getting too old for restaurant work, it’s hard on my body and barely keeps me afloat. So I’m not really sure if I can get a better job without going to school. I’m finally medicated, and finally getting help so I have a better chance than I ever had before at going to school and getting a degree. I’m just not really sure what to go for because I have not really had the option before so I didn’t think too hard about it.
Respiratory therapist! Pays pretty decent and helps my adhd brain be occupied with cool things
Any Data Analyst who finds it rewarding and stimulating?
Yes, agreed. Especially if it can develop in to forensics
Software developer. Subcontracting, so I never spend more than a couple of years at one customer. If I stay longer, I go nuts
I work in the legal and contract department of a large global company. Been with the company nearly 12 years and in this particular job for over 6. Absolutely love my job; it’s structured but also requires me to think outside the box. There are rules and processes, but also exceptions and times where you have to get creative with how you draft a contract. There’s definitely days where I struggle with motivation, feeling overwhelmed, or being unable to complete a project or complicated task. But my colleagues and manager are amazing, and I’ve worked my way up and built a reputation as one of the absolute best at what I do, and it feels amazing to have accomplished so much at work while struggling personally at the same time. Currently still undiagnosed but seeking assessment asap for ADHD at 35. Already diagnosed with depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I’m just a freaking grab bag of mental disorders apparently.
I am a content creator making all kinds of YouTube videos. Not yet sustainable, but it has a passive income factor that helps keep the money coming when I have my down time. I hope in a few years I can make it sustainable and successful.
Scaffolding. Yes love it. Hate the bullshit and having to interact with really stupid people, which I have to do regularly (most management/supervision are incredibly fucking stupid). It's a great career if you're medicated. I'm basically a field-level structural engineer, if I have freedom to build whatever I want. Since most of my coworkers are greatly uneducated people, it's easy to step over them and advance to the top. Higher your confidence, the better you'll do. I usually take a leadership role and teach my apprentices whenever I can, while being a positive role model in the work place.
Technical support in industry. Most of it is a reactive kind of job - so it's not boring. Pays usually much better than work on production line
Am in vet school trying not to drown
Im a orthodontic lab technician! It’s fun, feels like I’m doing arts and crafts all day, and I can bounce around all day. I make all sorts of retainers, palate expanders, and other appliances that orthodontists request!
Pediatric occupational therapist! I work four 10 hour days. Every hour I’m with a different kid. I do child-led therapy so every hour looks veeeery different and I thrive in being able to think on my feet. I have a million ideas fly through my head at any given moment to provide therapeutic opportunities for skill building based off of what types of input they’re looking for and what skills they’re showing me are emerging. I’m constantly moving and modeling sensory regulating inputs which is also helpful for me! I get to talk to ADHD kids about their adhd. I work for a hospital so it’s fast-paced and deadline focused which keeps urgency high which (as stressful as that can be most days) does help me get shit done like paperwork. I am absolutely fulfilled. Just tired by the end of the day!
Mental health therapist. I truly love it. I work for myself in private practice and I pay a biller to do my billing because I could never be trusted to pay myself correctly lol. I have also considered getting a little more admin help sometimes but so far I have made it 6 years doing this and it’s going ok. The variety and the neverending opportunities to learn new things keeps me from ever being bored. I do get burnt out sometimes but that has more to do with if my personal life isn’t as fufilling or if it’s stressful. If I keep a balance, I don’t burn out
EMT ⚕️
I’m a speech therapist. Love that each session is different, and that kids are little puzzles to figure out.
Me too!
I’m an accountant. I don’t feel like my ADHD gets much in the way. I’m bad about not being on time or forgetting tasks but when I’m in the ledgers it’s like solving a puzzle and I quite enjoy it
PhD student in computer science
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Education. I love my work because it’s very faced paced and varied. Me being hyperactive rarely if ever causes an issue at school
I work in a small CBD production laboratory, but also I freelance in hands-on creative industries like visual merchandising and prop making. The CBD lab is what I consider my “main” job, but it’s a zero hour contract so I only work when there is work available. Having a small team & bosses who I love reeeeeeally helps, but the flexibility/unpredictability of the schedule is what keeps me from burnout! Been working there almost 3 years. Freelancing has a similar schedule, and every project I work on is different and interesting! I have a fine arts background, so I find it really stimulating & I love being able to specialise in something! I’m based in the UK, if it matters.
I was in corporate video, it was a small studio so I was responsible for everything from preparing the shoot, production (lighting, audio, camera, direction) client relations and the final edit. I did that for 12 years, I have social anxiety so every shoot day was a struggle. I burnt out last December, actually well before that, but I was laid off in December and I was diagnosed in May. I'm still unemployed and have a bit of PTSD (not diagnosed, just a sick feeling) whenever I think of doing something simular. Looking for new opportunities, but at 44 years old, I'm not sure what to do.
I’m a data analyst. I think it works well for me. When I’m in my super focused zone I can get sooooo much work done that when I’m feeling distracted I can take it a little easier.
Self employed dry stone waller. Love it, keep me fit and burns off my excess energy. Plus outside all day.
I know this sounds weird, but i am lowkey obsessed with dry stone walling. You have a cool job!
Haha thanks. It's a great job, if you can hack the winters.
I was a critical care nurse turned law student. The change in career is what led me to get diagnosed. Switching from high pace to steady was really the game changer and revealed a lot.
Everyone always told me I should be in sales… I didn’t want to be in sales and avoided it until I was in my 30’s. Then I tried it because nothing else was working. Turns out, it was so easy for me to be at the top of the team. Sharing belief in stuff came naturally but I had to believe in it myself. I made triple the money I had previously made and didn’t have to work as hard as others.
Wait... You folks are capable of working? Before I wasn't working; I was in the Army, I was a chauffeur, I was in security; I did home/commercial removals; youth work; charity work; worked for a cartel; Boxed; conservation work; lots of volunteering; cook at a homeless shelter; food delivery; car valeting; vehicle breakdown recovery; cleaner; personal fitness trainer/coach. Those are the ones I can remember at the top of my head I am currently unemployed; weening off meds so I can go on ADHD meds and then looking into becoming a paramedic. I have been unemployed for quite a few years and I still feel completely burnt out but have a small ambition to start work again but I want a career that I will enjoy and can stick at; being a paramedic seems like it is something I can absolutely thrive at; my only issue is my self confidence and my ability to do the academic side since I have never had any real schooling or education
I’m a speech-language pathologist who helps students with disabilities. I love the high school level because I can teach them that yeah school might be hard (it was for me), but if you try and don’t give up you can do anything! I also educate my seniors all the different things they need to do to get accommodations, support, & funding at the college level. So they don’t have to go through the hardships I had to figuring it out all on my own, which sucked and was hard lol.
45. Communications/marketing. I don't do a lot of long running campaigns. I've become the go-to person if you need something fast and good. I tried moving up to a people leader position but after 6 months as acting manager, I decided it's not for me. That is likely not ADHD related-- I just have no patience for the amount of handholding some people need.
I'm a machine operator at a production dairy. I wear ear protection with Bluetooth in it and I get to vibe all day to podcasts, or music and I absolutely love it, and the jobs just physical enough I stay fully occupied mentally and physically and it's what I need. I wish it paid better or I had a way to make more but I do okay and we get by.
Currently waitress, but in 4 years I'll be a lawyer
I work in state government for a regulatory agency. My job has to do with professional licensure. Most of my time is at my desk working independently. I rarely get phone calls. Some of the time, I attend conferences and board meetings but it's a much smaller percentage of my time. Before this, I was a paralegal. Some of those skills are how I got this job. I've really enjoyed both. Government benefits are also very good. What I like about these jobs is that there's a general structure around the kind of tasks I do that provides stability, but each individual case is different so it also provides enough novelty that I don't get bored. Another important thing is I'm always busy. There's nothing I hate more than feeling my soul slowly drain out of my body while watching the clock waiting for quitting time. With these jobs, it's usually more like "oh, it's 5:00 already??"
I’m a preschool teacher and a picture book illustrator! Preschool is great bc illustration isn’t always consistent with payment and I get to have fun all day and still be creative. I will always keep preschool as a day job. Illustration is great because it’s creative, I set my own schedule, I can listen to things while I work, take as many breaks as I want, and I get a cool physical end product out of it. I love both these jobs but ideally I’d be doing illustration all the time.
Paramedic I never do the same thing twice Every day is different I get to creatively solve problems Seems to sooth the ADHD alright
I build props for company events. It’s really hard to explain briefly but essentially I work in a warehouse that has hundreds of props. Companies reach out to us and we deliver and assemble those props based on the event they are having. For example we recently did 3ft tall Rubik’s cubes and a 16ft tall boombox for an 80s themed event. Among the props we already have, we are also constantly building new ones. It’s a very creative job and every day is different. I love that it’s physical too because I don’t really have to build in separate time to work out, but I am able to stay relatively fit. It’s so cool to see the background of events too! Similar jobs to mine are people doing stage hand work. It’s not too hard to get into if you contact the theater union in your area! And the unions usually pay pretty well. Then you can help set up concerts and theater productions. Another similar job is anything in event coordination.
I’m an audio engineer. I mostly mix live music and I love it
Pharmacist, owning a pharmacy in a remote place (far away from city). Been a few months and the burnout is real, that's why recently I kinda overdid my work (put "unnecessary" upgrade and service) to make it more fun (to me). Is it fulfilling? I don't know. Financially I am doing fine and mentally it's pretty monotonous. That's why I am going to try something else in the near future, brew, make and mix "jamu" (herbal concoction, although I still have no funds to make it big haha); delve deeper into mysticism (my grandma was a shaman) and "research" them through scientific pov (I know it'll end up bad, very bad); or maybe ... I dont know, anything, I'll do anything, because it's so monotonous to the point I'd visit the patients by myself so they wouldn't skip their meds rather than sitting here all day all the time. I am already 23 and I am 100% sure I'll change my career soon cause I can't stand the burnout. Not sure it'll work out tho, changing career here is hellish, passed 25 yo and 90% of opportunities will close.
Almost similar story to mine, im a banker at 21 now, before I was a server for a restaurant and before that I was a masoner. All jobs were great until I learned them all and got bored. My role involves making calls and reaching out to businesses and talk about how we can benefit them but even then that isn’t fulfilling
Professor. Overwhelming at times, but it works for me because of the flexibility and how stimulating it can be (different research projects, new students every semester, etc.)
I work in retail. I've also taught, been a professional floral designer. Retail really is the best for me, I've done it so long, nothing phases me. I just zone out and do my thing. Always something to do. I can't have a job that uses a lot of executive function. Retail only sucks if you're insecure, care too much, or want a lot of money. I prefer to use my brain and talent at home.
i burnt out of retail several years ago, found my calling as a landscaper and nursery worker. im also autistic so i always struggled with authority and “truths”. you can’t get more truthful that the natural world and its beings that have evolved over millions of years to live in the environment they’re from, along side neighborly plants, insects, and animals. the tough part is dealing with ignorant ppl, those who simply must have a yard full of asian and european invasives. other than that it’s incredibly stimulating and the most sustainable career i’ve found so far
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I'm an Industrial-Organisational Psychologist and Researcher. It's been a tough journey but happy to be where I am now.
I’m a journalist. I don’t do well on the days I’m stuck in the office with busy work - I do better on days when I’m out in the field gathering materials and spending half my time in the office writing. I don’t do great being stagnant.
Lawyer. It's not without difficulty. But my hyper focus, desire for truth, scary attention to detail, and sense of justice are all assets.
Software engineer but starting next week I am officially jobless And tbf not one bit motivated to get a job again like at all. But I eventually will have to. Does it fulfill me? Not in the slightest anymore. Corporate environment ruined my passion for building software. I just want to reach financial independence and call it a day to live life on my terms and that's it.
This is obv seasonal, but I'm a Summer Camp Director for a computer science camp. I get to run things how I want and I get the right amount of stimulation. I'm never bored because there's always something happening (behavior issues, injuries, curriculum help), and I never need to sit down and focus on something for an hour.
Speech pathologist! I haven’t started yet but it’ll be my first job post grad school working with kids doing home health so I’ll get to bounce around all day and make my own schedule which sounds great
I'm a cook in a nursing home kitchen. Worked my way up to sous chef. Every day is a little like a puzzle, and my tasks are varied enough to be interesting. The best and worst part is people come to me with all sorts of problems, some of which are outside my wheelhouse and others are super simple. There's a lot of variety in tasks, but I also leave my work at work. Plus, many of the skills I've learned are useful in everyday life. Just wish it paid more. I don't want to work in a restaurant. The hours I have let me live my life, and both chefs I've been under left that life so they could HAVE a life. Having said that, I do work most holidays
I work in mental health at a university, it's tough work but I love it and I'm also really gold at it which helps!
I’m a therapist at a nonprofit working with kids and families dealing with trauma. I can make my own schedule and decide what days I work and how many clients I have which is nice. The parts I struggle with are keeping up with documentation and remembering to prep more than 10 minutes before a session 💀 one of my biggest symptoms is memory issues so I frequently forget the majority of the interventions or activities I can use with clients until after the fact lmao but they’re still making progress and still coming back so I figure I’m doing something right 😂 I actually recently went to get medicated to help with work stuff… only to be diagnosed with moderate-severe OCD that has to be treated first, so. It appears I will struggle with adhd interfering with work for a while longer.
Although I work with special needs kids as a creative arts therapist, I relate to this so hard. I struggle with shame over not remembering details from previous sessions, and not being great with detailed session planning , but I also see them coming back again and again, building great relationships with them, and their parents satisfied, so I know I must be doing something right! It’s like I’m able to get on their level instantly because I’m forever a kid at heart, and being spontaneous with them, exactly as they are, is exactly what’s needed a lot of the time. I don’t work like other by the book therapists, but I’m good at it in my own ramshackle kind of way lol
I'm a flight attendant....and honestly, there are SO many of us in aviation.
Roofing. I learned originally how to use an air nailer but I got on with a crew that did hand nailing and that’s what I’ve stuck with. I find myself very satisfied with my job as it’s the perfect blend of routine and chaos. Every roof is the same, but different. Every nail I pound in is the same, but different. It’s physically exhausting work and repetitive enough my brain can wander into distraction but has to come back to focus on certain tasks which helps to ground me mentally. Nobody should ever be a career roofer but it’s been a good gig these last couple years and my body can definitely handle another few years of it while I consider my next steps in life
Im a journeyman electrician/ first year instrumentation tech at an osb mill. I do inspections, thermal imaging, PLC work, work on temperature, pressure and level sensors, 3 phase motors up to 4160volts , and troubleshooting to get the mill running again. It was tough trying to learn all that stuff, im a bit of a slow learner but it was worth it and it pays very well.
I don't tell them anymore that I have ADHD. They just think I'm brilliant and creative. I do web design and e-learning. I use ai to help me do js in my e-learning and they think I'm brilliant.
Civil litigation. There are actually a lot of personal injury lawyers with ADHD. Most need a good paralegal though to help them keep organized and keep track of deadlines. It’s amazing having a paralegal though. She writes the boring parts of legal stuff and I just write the fun parts (the arguments). She also manages the filing and 90% of the paperwork (subpoenas, deposition notices, etc). There’s a high barrier to entry though in the U.S. and a lot of other countries.
Theatre, admin/producer and an actor when I have time. I've worked Front of House for festivals and major events for years, it's great because it's basically the same structure so it's easy to repeat but each event is unique and different and it's very fast-paced. For the last few years, I have been with a small team that runs a huge 12-day festival every summer with hundreds of performances, hundreds of artists, tens of thousands of attendees. It's exhausting but it's fun
Acting / styling - gives plenty of time to hyperfocus and then rest for long periods. Every day is a new day. Projects keep changing
Honestly I’ve never had a job where I haven’t suffered burnout. It’s just part of me to go too hard and give too much, even with ‘easy’ jobs. I’m currently work in circulation in a public library (not a librarian, I could never commit to 4 year bachelors plus 2 year masters without changing my mind 10 times). I don’t know if this is universal but in my library system, there’s a great balance of routine and novelty. Every day there are routine tasks that need to get done that provide some structure to the day, but the patron needs, the seasons, the in-branch events and programming, even just the materials we’re handling provide novelty. I’m now a supervisor in this setting and to be honest it doesn’t work as well for my ADHD as the entry level circulation assistant work did. I do have more freedom to follow my interests and strengths, but I have more responsibility and because it’s “my branch” I do twice as much work as I need to because I’m proud of my branch and want it to be amazing (plus im a perfectionist who can’t delegate so…). I’m also expected to be available to staff and patrons all the time so it’s incredibly difficult to focus.
Paramedic
Paramedic going back to school for cyber security
3 jobs at 33 is nothing. I'm 29 and done like. 17.
Designer here; aspects of design are way easier with ADHD but obviously the sedentary aspects are brutal, I used to be a PM and that was a lot easier. I will say however, I’m at Xbox currently and it feels like 40-50 percent of the designers have ADHD
Personal weeder (I make bank) in the meantime as I got dropped from my farming job due to injury *on the job*. But come winter I’ll need a more full time job for sure. But i bring home about $250-$300 a day so I’m chillin. Hope it’s a long summer!🤞🏻
33F as well struggling with this!!!! I am a nurse with 4 degrees so a lot of random work experience and man... keeping a job is sooooo hard. 1. for me I have a low threshhold for bullshit (i,.e. shitty managers lol) but 2. like I HAVE to be using my brain and learning and applying this- and feeling the dead end nature of a job sink in sucks! I am a nurse educator now but it is a corporate job where they are just sales focused and it sucksssss. I dont have advice but the top comment- engineering- funny becuase I have been watching youtube videos on engineering, quantum computing, and physics. We will figure it out somehow girl! but apart from ADHD I think it is hard to take out purpose from a job and find things outside of work that matter.
I’m a funeral director and embalmer. Embalming and restorative art allows me to be creative!
I’m an Assistant Director on movie sets. The chaos, high stakes, and constantly changing elements of the job are *chef’s kiss* for ADHD.