Strategies to Succeed at Work

Adults with ADHD often self-select careers using the advantageous traits of their ADHD to succeed, however, often at least one of their ADHD traits will negatively impact an aspect of the job or with colleague/supervisor interpersonal relationships. It is important to be aware of the areas of ADHD that impact your work to develop better ways to support yourself for success.

Workspace

– Choose a quiet work area away from other people
– Avoid “open workspace” designs and choose an office in which the door can be closed
– Position yourself away from distractions such as televisions, windows, kitchen, games and personal devices
– Use a noise reduction headset if surrounding noise is distracting
– Ergonomically optimize the workstation so that the chair, desk, and computer are all at the correct height and position
– Remove clutter and unnecessary items from the work area.

Work Organization

– Break big projects into smaller tasks
– Organize multiple shorter meetings, rather than a single long meeting
– Try to keep meetings 45 minutes in duration or less
– Request weekly, if not daily, informal verbal feedback from supervisors
– Prioritize work items and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals
– Use whiteboards, apps, spreadsheets, lists, and project management software to stay organized
– Use warnings/alarm reminders prior to meetings or when switching tasks
– Paperwork/wrapping up projects can be challenging. When possible delegate, streamline, or use incentives to complete the final mundane details