Whoops! Guess who forgot to upload the fortnightly blog article on time?
That would be this ADHDer right here. I’ve been super busy over the last two weeks (figures, after I wrote a blog article about taking time to slow down in Autumn, right?).
Do you ever think your ADHD gets in the way of being good at your job?
Trust me, that used to be me all the time — particularly when there was paperwork involved. ADHD brains are wired to chase dopamine, which means we gravitate towards what feels stimulating and avoid what feels boring. Not exactly ideal in a 9–5 world full of spreadsheets and forms.
But over the years, I’ve learned that you don’t have to fight your brain. You can work with it. Here are some practical hints that help me (and might help you too):
🎯 Set small, manageable goals
Big projects feel impossible. Breaking them down into bite-sized steps gives you quick wins — and those little dopamine hits keep you going. Even writing “open the document” on your list counts.
⏰ Accountability matters
Whether it’s reminders on your phone, regular check-ins with a manager, or body doubling with a friend, external accountability keeps you moving when motivation dips.
“The right resources for ADHD in a job are just as important as the job itself.”
ADHD gIRL
👥 Build good working relationships
The people around you can make or break your workday. Having colleagues who motivate you, check in, and hold you accountable can be a lifeline. And a good, honest relationship with your boss matters too — not the brown-nosing kind, but one where you can be open about your strengths and struggles. A boss who “gets it” can make the difference between constantly masking and actually thriving.
🕹 Pair boring with fun
Music, snacks, or colourful stationery — anything that makes dull tasks a bit more stimulating. If it tricks your brain into focusing, it counts.
⏳ Beat the clock
Timers and mini challenges make boring work into a game. A 10-minute sprint can get you started when you feel stuck.
🗣 Change your environment
A new setting (café, library, even just another room) can kickstart focus. ADHD brains thrive on novelty.
The bigger picture: career fit
All the hacks in the world can help, but the most important factor is finding the right career fit. ADHD can be a huge strength when you’re in the right environment — creative, fast-paced, people-focused, problem-solving roles often bring out the best in us.
When you’re in a career that suits your brain, the question stops being “How can I keep up?” and starts being “How far can I go?”
🎧 Want more?
If this resonates with you, I did a whole podcast episode on Working with ADHD where I dived deeper into these challenges (and share a few funny stories too) with the ADHD Career coach Shell Mendelson —- You can listen here for more practical tips and real talk.
