Over the last two years, I’ve had the chance to work in a variety of settings: a small IT company, a startup, and a bank. Each of these environments was different in its own way, and they taught me a lot about what works – and what doesn’t – for someone with ADHD.
One major realization? ADHD brains aren’t built for long, slow marathons. We’re made for sprints. Think of it like this: having ADHD is like driving a Ferrari. We’re fast, driven by ideas, and always ready to go full speed.
But imagine taking that Ferrari and putting it in the middle of an endless traffic jam. That’s what it can feel like working in a highly structured, rule-heavy corporate environment.
In small companies and startups, the flexibility, creativity, and fast pace let me tap into my strengths. When something needed to be done quickly, I was right there with solutions and new ideas. The less rigid structure let me pivot when needed, which felt like an advantage. It’s in these kinds of environments that ADHD can be a true strength.
But when I worked at the bank, where there were more rules and levels of approval, it felt like I was idling in “rush-hour traffic.” The rigid structure didn’t allow for the kind of quick thinking and fast problem-solving that come naturally to ADHD minds. I could do the job, but it often felt like my brain was racing in place.
This experience taught me that ADHD isn’t a disadvantage; it’s a different way of thinking. When we’re in the right place – one that values flexibility, creativity, and adaptability – that’s when we really thrive. For those of us with ADHD, finding environments that let us put our strengths to use isn’t just a preference; it’s the key to making the most of what we bring to the table.