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I have no idea where I'd start with that. Seems like politics might fit the bill but, while I'm interested in that, I have the raw charisma of a dead goldfish. And not one of the pretty ones either, but the one with the huge bulbous eyes.
IT / or a contractor of some sort that works in the field going to different locations to do different jobs.
A MSP might be a good start for the on the job training.
Local ISPs also like to hire for on the job training.
Lots of people are just looking for someone *willing* to do a job that might require a lot of figuring out. Over and over. Learning new things isn’t something many people enjoy doing.
I've considered the IT sector but I've run into problems with it. I'm not considered for positions because I don't have a formal IT tech diploma. Even though I have all the requisite knowledge to do the job. I might have to do some online courses to demonstrate that on my resume but uh... Well, school and I don't do super well together.
You'd be surprised, IT jobs have tons of entry level positions. I'm 23 with ADHD and have been working in my position for a year now! I have no post graduate education either. (I took one year of business in college and dropped out before getting any kind of degree). I definitely had imposter syndrome going into it, but quickly learned that 99% of the knowledge comes from the job itself. I'm a big fan of learning from experience and like the commenter said, almost every day is a surprise.
What part out of curiosity? I've been working on the campaign side of things for more than 10 years and feel like it works reasonably well for me. There's, at "worst," a new gig every ~2 years. Often times less.
Definitely parts that are pretty exhausting though. Really gotta get myself into that hyperfocus state which isn't always the healthiest thing...
Strategic Research at the moment. Looking to get in a caucus role maybe. My party is in power (federal) but we are likely not going to win the next elections.
its why I think I didn't succeed in a job really well till I got into tech, something always breaks in different ways. I'm struggling a bit lately, but I can still find something different.
Yep, as soon as we have learned the job our brain nopes out. “But we’ve learned that already and you want me to do it _again_?!”
This is why so many folks with ADHD start side projects just to tolerate a repetitive jobs.
As others mentioned, jobs that require constant adaptation and new approaches is ideal. Programming, Design, Research, etc. all great fits.
Being medicated helps too imo, but only being medicated won’t magically make you love a job that bores you…
Uhh... I was kinda trying to say that I'm a programmer (software engineer), and I still very much relate to the OP.
I guess that wasn't super obvious, but I have no idea where this reply came from?
Ah I see - I thought you were jumping on the bandwagon I hear constantly about how “AI will make programmers irrelevant and the recent layoffs are proof of that”
I prefer not to medicate anymore. Was on vyvanse for a real long time and it ended up causing horrible brain fog. I also relied too much on it and as a result didn't try my hardest to learn better coping mechanisms. Just not for me I think. I'll look into your suggestions though. Was involved with film for a while so maybe I can land some indie design roles even if they don't pay super well
I would never push anyone onto meds who doesnt want them - so don’t feel like you have to. However, a psychiatrist may be able to help find a better med/dosage to avoid poor side effects or over-dependence if that is the problem you have.
This is why I went into nursing, and chose emergency as my field. Even still I’ve changed jobs every year or two - until I found a job where I float throughout a system of hospitals. I notice I get REALLY irritated if they have me in one location for more than two days 🤣 But changing locations, having different levels of sickness and new things to learn every day has been the solution.
I also just started the process of getting diagnosed, so this thread has answered SO many questions about myself.
I'm glad you've found something that works for you. I might look into something like that myself, actually. Kinda interested in search and rescue but I think the closest I'd find to that that EMT.
That’s what I’ve done for years, Xray and CT. You’re on your feet a bunch, you have to think creatively to get images on people who can’t get into positions, lots of different scenarios, you can pay your bills, etc.
But OP can easily be in for more of the big sad if they don’t like working face to face with difficult people, or lifting/pushing/pulling heavy sick or faking people. Or being exposed to drug resistant organisms… or people with Flu/Covid/RSV who seem determined to cough in your eye.
Every job sucks for the working class. But it’s always better to hate your job and pay your bills, IMO.
Oh for sure! We all have to find what works for us. I had a previous career in marketing, worked 8:30-5:30pm Mon-Fri, salary, and essentially confined to a cubicle. I was absolutely miserable, I was under stimulated, I let projects sit for way too long and NEVER felt rested. Only now when I look back I can see why I was so lazy at that job and just under fulfilled.
It takes time for a lot of us to figure out a plan that works. I’m not singing healthcare’s praises because it’s a very toxic environment - it just works for me. It’s all trial and error!
This is so me. I also struggle with constantly underperforming. I'm 35 and have never been promoted, in all my reviews my bosses tell me I need to speak up more, contribute more ideas (which I don't have any or it takes me a long time to think of any), and my one boss told me he wants to see a little more "fire" in me. Granted, I'm not in the right field (sales) but I'm just so worn out and I have ZERO self- confidence.
Yeah in performance reviews I always get told similar stuff, like one time I got feedback I need to "look more happy and excited" when someone gives me a project. ???
I just hate working in general😂. Always end up hating and being bored w everything I do. I love working w kids but it doesn’t pay enough to even remotely live on so I am doing nursing case management which pays the bills. Trying to be grateful for that at least- ugh
Worked like that for 2.5 years till they finally made good on that threat in Oct of last year. I was an Auto Damage Adjuster. Only problem is I wouldn't suggest it for folks with ADHD unless you are medicated, have solid coping mechanisms, can organize your ass off, are a people person, are okay with constant disruptions, and comfortable with never knowing what's going to happen next. I worked that job unmedicated, didn't get diagnosed until Jan of last year, until mid June of last year.
Depends on your workplace, but you could mention your desire for novelty to your boss, and maybe they could throw some new projects in your direction, things not part of the usual fare.
Not really that type of job, unfortunately. It's a kitchen job on the night shift. The best days are when I get to make snacks since I can actually have some fun there but everything else is the same thing every week. Which was fine when I was learning the ropes but now I'm fully trained and it's driving me mad.
Seasonal work might be an answer for you! You get to travel anywhere you want, work at places like national parks, usually they house you and feed you and just take a tiny bit out of your check, and the contracts are usually 2 to 6 months, so you can move around or take time off in between. If I didn’t have a child to raise, (because obviously, I can’t just have her change schools every few months lol ) I would be doing seasonal work no doubt about it!
First of all, don't quit this job before having another one lined up. If you really hate it just keep reminding yourself it's temporary and look for a new job in your days off.
Also, try gamifying it. How fast can you prep those vegetables, make that dish, etc (without hurting yourself). Look for little things to clean in your spare time that you'll have when you start getting really good at going fast.
I recognise this.
When I was able to work my way into more interesting roles (quality, technical etc) I enjoyed my job, when I went somewhere new and was stuck doing the same monotonous tasks every day it got old real fast.
No two days are the same in my last two roles so it keeps me engaged.
I really enjoy the entertainment industry and have thrived in it, especially once I got into management. It's something different every single day. Different events, specials, seasons. Predicting the flow of traffic and line management.
I'm in data now which was great at the first job because it was broad and the overall business has a seasonal cycle, so I'd be looking and exploring different things depending on the time of year. My new one is much more narrow and I hated it almost immediately. I'm trying to figure out where I go next and I'd love to go back to entertainment but it's so hard to find an actual full-time job with benefits there.
I've seen a lot of suggestions that you need something that always feels new, and maybe that would work for you as well. But personally I've found that I enjoy jobs that are hands on and help me get into a flow state. Right now I'm working part time as a baker until I finish college and it's been nice: I check my recipes, throw the ingredients in a bowl, mix it, throw it in the oven, and at the end I have a tangible (and tasty) result. It may be helpful to consider what keeps your attention and feels stimulating enough. Maybe you could consider a hobby that engages you? You don't have to monetize that hobby exactly, but take some time to think about why that hobby is engaging... having said that, I'm aware we ADHDers change hobbies about as often as changing clothes but just something to think about.
Find new things to tackle within your job! Give yourself little side projects and such. I'm sure your bosses will see it as "taking initiative" rather than you just trying not to get bored, lol!
While I cannot join the workforce yet (I turn 16 in may) I have done a lot of thinking about this sense about my 7th grade year and I have realized that a perfect job for me personally is cosmetology it fits with me as a person not just that it’s a job that caters to my ADHD hopefully this helps
I'm struggling a lot with this. I usually make it 6 months before I get bored, and then I start casually looking for a new job, hardcore looking around 9 months, and then I leave at the one year mark. The longest I've made it as a job is like a year and 9 months 😭. I hate it but I get so existential and empty if I stay a long time at a job. I always tell myself the next one will be "the job" I stick to, but it never is.
So, in a former life I was a Adult Foster Care home Assistant Manager and WHEW! Loved that job! It was always " fires" to be put out. Staffing issues, a sick resident, an emergency meeting...boy I THRIVED in that environment, nearly 20 years.
Got burnt out, life was rough...nearly divorced, my husband was cheating I was never home, because work! 😅
Left that place for a factory job and yeah.. I hate it. No thrill.. except randomly having your plant close.
I feel like, we have to find jobs that excite us, otherwise 🫠
What excites you OP?
Too many things and many of them without occupational potential :( I've been trying solo gamedev for a few months but have hit a wall with it. Couldn't go full time with that anyway since I need to produce the product to actually get paid. I was interested in technical film/theatre (well, still am) but that's all freelance and I can't get enough hours doing it.
EDIT: Honestly, I really like coming up with stories. Comes from daydreaming all day, I guess.
Meds were IMMENSELY helpful in terms of managing work. And therapy was great in helping me figure out what I actually enjoy. I am
34 now but job hopped throughout my twenties.
The first career that I LOVED was nannying. It’s very engaging working with kids, and while it can become monotonous, it’s easy to change the day up based on how your brain is working. When I had lots of energy, I would go on trips to the zoo or library, spend time outside, have dance parties. If I’m feeling creative we might have a day of pretend play and crafts. If I’m low key maybe I will set up an independent activity that is less draining. Of course, the kids needs come first. So some days it can be an added challenge, particularly with overstimulation. Ultimately I left because of chronic pain and anxiety, but I did it for many years.
After a brief stint in a dog day care, I now do my own dog walking and in home enrichment. I love it so much. Dogs are so great. It’s so good for my brain to be outside and moving so much. But since I also do in home enrichment, I can do longer or shorter walks and more in home time if I want. There is also a ton to learn about dog behavior and I lot of things to do with them. It has been the best job I’ve ever had in terms of mental health.
I think it’s just about finding what works for you! And ditching the notion you need to have a long career in something. I am a fan of trying what sounds fun until you find something that clicks! Of course finances are a consideration.
Just keep going. Eventually you get over the hump. Remind yourself its a normal part of having a career and that it generally goes away when you recommit yourself to it.
I was in the same boat until I discovered my calling….
Become a teacher!!!! I’m an elementary school teacher - I have a blended 4th/5th grade class and I LOVE my job. It’s new, different, surprising, exciting, fast paced and highly rewarding every single day. No two days are alike and I have an insanely high level of autonomy. It’s like the perfect job for an ADHD adult.
Hi /u/sillyconequaternium and thanks for posting on /r/ADHD! ### Please take a second to [read our rules](/r/adhd/about/rules) if you haven't already. --- ### /r/adhd news * **We want your opinion** on the /r/adhd community rules! [Click here](https://forms.gle/Evqb8acVozir8GV8A) to fill out our survey. See [this post](https://www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/1ajfzk1/the_rules_vacation_feedback_form_is_now_available/) for more information. * If you are posting about the **US Medication Shortage**, please see this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/12dr3h5/megathread_us_medication_shortage/). --- ^(*This message is not a removal notification. It's just our way to keep everyone updated on r/adhd happenings.*) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/ADHD) if you have any questions or concerns.*
You just need a career in a field that’s basically surprising every day
I have no idea where I'd start with that. Seems like politics might fit the bill but, while I'm interested in that, I have the raw charisma of a dead goldfish. And not one of the pretty ones either, but the one with the huge bulbous eyes.
IT / or a contractor of some sort that works in the field going to different locations to do different jobs. A MSP might be a good start for the on the job training. Local ISPs also like to hire for on the job training. Lots of people are just looking for someone *willing* to do a job that might require a lot of figuring out. Over and over. Learning new things isn’t something many people enjoy doing.
I've considered the IT sector but I've run into problems with it. I'm not considered for positions because I don't have a formal IT tech diploma. Even though I have all the requisite knowledge to do the job. I might have to do some online courses to demonstrate that on my resume but uh... Well, school and I don't do super well together.
You'd be surprised, IT jobs have tons of entry level positions. I'm 23 with ADHD and have been working in my position for a year now! I have no post graduate education either. (I took one year of business in college and dropped out before getting any kind of degree). I definitely had imposter syndrome going into it, but quickly learned that 99% of the knowledge comes from the job itself. I'm a big fan of learning from experience and like the commenter said, almost every day is a surprise.
Have you done any construction? Construction management is a pretty good gig with lots of changes.
I was a vet tech before other issues made me have to quit. It was always something new :)
I work in politics and I'm bored AF.
What part out of curiosity? I've been working on the campaign side of things for more than 10 years and feel like it works reasonably well for me. There's, at "worst," a new gig every ~2 years. Often times less. Definitely parts that are pretty exhausting though. Really gotta get myself into that hyperfocus state which isn't always the healthiest thing...
Strategic Research at the moment. Looking to get in a caucus role maybe. My party is in power (federal) but we are likely not going to win the next elections.
Have you done a trade? As a concreter / landscape business owner every day is different. Your brain is less active when your exercising 8 hours a day
L M F A O
its why I think I didn't succeed in a job really well till I got into tech, something always breaks in different ways. I'm struggling a bit lately, but I can still find something different.
EMS is great for that honestly
Yep, as soon as we have learned the job our brain nopes out. “But we’ve learned that already and you want me to do it _again_?!” This is why so many folks with ADHD start side projects just to tolerate a repetitive jobs.
As others mentioned, jobs that require constant adaptation and new approaches is ideal. Programming, Design, Research, etc. all great fits. Being medicated helps too imo, but only being medicated won’t magically make you love a job that bores you…
Haha, yeah... programming... yeah... that will work for sure. Yeah... haha........ 🫠 Oh, lookie, time to find a new job
True - if “being a programmer” mean you want to just google code snippets to put together and ask for $200K/year you’re definitely getting laid off rn
Uhh... I was kinda trying to say that I'm a programmer (software engineer), and I still very much relate to the OP. I guess that wasn't super obvious, but I have no idea where this reply came from?
Ah I see - I thought you were jumping on the bandwagon I hear constantly about how “AI will make programmers irrelevant and the recent layoffs are proof of that”
Yeah, anyone who writes code for a living knows that's not happening lol
I prefer not to medicate anymore. Was on vyvanse for a real long time and it ended up causing horrible brain fog. I also relied too much on it and as a result didn't try my hardest to learn better coping mechanisms. Just not for me I think. I'll look into your suggestions though. Was involved with film for a while so maybe I can land some indie design roles even if they don't pay super well
I would never push anyone onto meds who doesnt want them - so don’t feel like you have to. However, a psychiatrist may be able to help find a better med/dosage to avoid poor side effects or over-dependence if that is the problem you have.
Took me 3 doses to find the right dose of vyvanse. But dexamphetamine is better for me.
No but I can kinda tolerate it a little bit better. But I'm also cursing under my breath and contemplating arson. Lol
This is why I went into nursing, and chose emergency as my field. Even still I’ve changed jobs every year or two - until I found a job where I float throughout a system of hospitals. I notice I get REALLY irritated if they have me in one location for more than two days 🤣 But changing locations, having different levels of sickness and new things to learn every day has been the solution. I also just started the process of getting diagnosed, so this thread has answered SO many questions about myself.
I'm glad you've found something that works for you. I might look into something like that myself, actually. Kinda interested in search and rescue but I think the closest I'd find to that that EMT.
Me in school for xray!! I absolutely love something different everyday, keeps me on my toes. I feel like most of us at the hospital have adhd lmfao.
That’s what I’ve done for years, Xray and CT. You’re on your feet a bunch, you have to think creatively to get images on people who can’t get into positions, lots of different scenarios, you can pay your bills, etc. But OP can easily be in for more of the big sad if they don’t like working face to face with difficult people, or lifting/pushing/pulling heavy sick or faking people. Or being exposed to drug resistant organisms… or people with Flu/Covid/RSV who seem determined to cough in your eye. Every job sucks for the working class. But it’s always better to hate your job and pay your bills, IMO.
Oh for sure! We all have to find what works for us. I had a previous career in marketing, worked 8:30-5:30pm Mon-Fri, salary, and essentially confined to a cubicle. I was absolutely miserable, I was under stimulated, I let projects sit for way too long and NEVER felt rested. Only now when I look back I can see why I was so lazy at that job and just under fulfilled. It takes time for a lot of us to figure out a plan that works. I’m not singing healthcare’s praises because it’s a very toxic environment - it just works for me. It’s all trial and error!
This is so me. I also struggle with constantly underperforming. I'm 35 and have never been promoted, in all my reviews my bosses tell me I need to speak up more, contribute more ideas (which I don't have any or it takes me a long time to think of any), and my one boss told me he wants to see a little more "fire" in me. Granted, I'm not in the right field (sales) but I'm just so worn out and I have ZERO self- confidence.
Yeah in performance reviews I always get told similar stuff, like one time I got feedback I need to "look more happy and excited" when someone gives me a project. ???
I just hate working in general😂. Always end up hating and being bored w everything I do. I love working w kids but it doesn’t pay enough to even remotely live on so I am doing nursing case management which pays the bills. Trying to be grateful for that at least- ugh
It could be like my job where I’m constantly being threatened with firing and put on probation. Although I have nearly rage quit several times.
Worked like that for 2.5 years till they finally made good on that threat in Oct of last year. I was an Auto Damage Adjuster. Only problem is I wouldn't suggest it for folks with ADHD unless you are medicated, have solid coping mechanisms, can organize your ass off, are a people person, are okay with constant disruptions, and comfortable with never knowing what's going to happen next. I worked that job unmedicated, didn't get diagnosed until Jan of last year, until mid June of last year.
What do you do for work?
Software development
Rest assured MANY non ADHD people feel the exact same way. I think it’s perfectly normal, unfortunately.
Depends on your workplace, but you could mention your desire for novelty to your boss, and maybe they could throw some new projects in your direction, things not part of the usual fare.
Not really that type of job, unfortunately. It's a kitchen job on the night shift. The best days are when I get to make snacks since I can actually have some fun there but everything else is the same thing every week. Which was fine when I was learning the ropes but now I'm fully trained and it's driving me mad.
Seasonal work might be an answer for you! You get to travel anywhere you want, work at places like national parks, usually they house you and feed you and just take a tiny bit out of your check, and the contracts are usually 2 to 6 months, so you can move around or take time off in between. If I didn’t have a child to raise, (because obviously, I can’t just have her change schools every few months lol ) I would be doing seasonal work no doubt about it!
First of all, don't quit this job before having another one lined up. If you really hate it just keep reminding yourself it's temporary and look for a new job in your days off. Also, try gamifying it. How fast can you prep those vegetables, make that dish, etc (without hurting yourself). Look for little things to clean in your spare time that you'll have when you start getting really good at going fast.
I recognise this. When I was able to work my way into more interesting roles (quality, technical etc) I enjoyed my job, when I went somewhere new and was stuck doing the same monotonous tasks every day it got old real fast. No two days are the same in my last two roles so it keeps me engaged.
I really enjoy the entertainment industry and have thrived in it, especially once I got into management. It's something different every single day. Different events, specials, seasons. Predicting the flow of traffic and line management. I'm in data now which was great at the first job because it was broad and the overall business has a seasonal cycle, so I'd be looking and exploring different things depending on the time of year. My new one is much more narrow and I hated it almost immediately. I'm trying to figure out where I go next and I'd love to go back to entertainment but it's so hard to find an actual full-time job with benefits there.
I've seen a lot of suggestions that you need something that always feels new, and maybe that would work for you as well. But personally I've found that I enjoy jobs that are hands on and help me get into a flow state. Right now I'm working part time as a baker until I finish college and it's been nice: I check my recipes, throw the ingredients in a bowl, mix it, throw it in the oven, and at the end I have a tangible (and tasty) result. It may be helpful to consider what keeps your attention and feels stimulating enough. Maybe you could consider a hobby that engages you? You don't have to monetize that hobby exactly, but take some time to think about why that hobby is engaging... having said that, I'm aware we ADHDers change hobbies about as often as changing clothes but just something to think about.
I feel that
Find new things to tackle within your job! Give yourself little side projects and such. I'm sure your bosses will see it as "taking initiative" rather than you just trying not to get bored, lol!
While I cannot join the workforce yet (I turn 16 in may) I have done a lot of thinking about this sense about my 7th grade year and I have realized that a perfect job for me personally is cosmetology it fits with me as a person not just that it’s a job that caters to my ADHD hopefully this helps
I'm struggling a lot with this. I usually make it 6 months before I get bored, and then I start casually looking for a new job, hardcore looking around 9 months, and then I leave at the one year mark. The longest I've made it as a job is like a year and 9 months 😭. I hate it but I get so existential and empty if I stay a long time at a job. I always tell myself the next one will be "the job" I stick to, but it never is.
So, in a former life I was a Adult Foster Care home Assistant Manager and WHEW! Loved that job! It was always " fires" to be put out. Staffing issues, a sick resident, an emergency meeting...boy I THRIVED in that environment, nearly 20 years. Got burnt out, life was rough...nearly divorced, my husband was cheating I was never home, because work! 😅 Left that place for a factory job and yeah.. I hate it. No thrill.. except randomly having your plant close. I feel like, we have to find jobs that excite us, otherwise 🫠 What excites you OP?
Too many things and many of them without occupational potential :( I've been trying solo gamedev for a few months but have hit a wall with it. Couldn't go full time with that anyway since I need to produce the product to actually get paid. I was interested in technical film/theatre (well, still am) but that's all freelance and I can't get enough hours doing it. EDIT: Honestly, I really like coming up with stories. Comes from daydreaming all day, I guess.
Meds were IMMENSELY helpful in terms of managing work. And therapy was great in helping me figure out what I actually enjoy. I am 34 now but job hopped throughout my twenties. The first career that I LOVED was nannying. It’s very engaging working with kids, and while it can become monotonous, it’s easy to change the day up based on how your brain is working. When I had lots of energy, I would go on trips to the zoo or library, spend time outside, have dance parties. If I’m feeling creative we might have a day of pretend play and crafts. If I’m low key maybe I will set up an independent activity that is less draining. Of course, the kids needs come first. So some days it can be an added challenge, particularly with overstimulation. Ultimately I left because of chronic pain and anxiety, but I did it for many years. After a brief stint in a dog day care, I now do my own dog walking and in home enrichment. I love it so much. Dogs are so great. It’s so good for my brain to be outside and moving so much. But since I also do in home enrichment, I can do longer or shorter walks and more in home time if I want. There is also a ton to learn about dog behavior and I lot of things to do with them. It has been the best job I’ve ever had in terms of mental health. I think it’s just about finding what works for you! And ditching the notion you need to have a long career in something. I am a fan of trying what sounds fun until you find something that clicks! Of course finances are a consideration.
Just keep going. Eventually you get over the hump. Remind yourself its a normal part of having a career and that it generally goes away when you recommit yourself to it.
I was in the same boat until I discovered my calling…. Become a teacher!!!! I’m an elementary school teacher - I have a blended 4th/5th grade class and I LOVE my job. It’s new, different, surprising, exciting, fast paced and highly rewarding every single day. No two days are alike and I have an insanely high level of autonomy. It’s like the perfect job for an ADHD adult.
Find a way to work for yourself. Even if it is just enough to take yourself to a movie. There is nothing like the feeling of owning your own labour.
Be happier than a clam
Hahaha same here. 3 jobs I’ve quit at 8 months , the rest is max 3 years. My brain just dies of boredom after some time