Choosing the right career can be tough for anyone, but if you have ADHD, it can feel even more challenging. Some jobs are a natural fit for the energy and creativity that often come with ADHD, while others might make daily tasks feel like an uphill battle.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the worst careers for ADHD and what to watch out for when considering different ADHD jobs. By knowing which careers can drain your focus and productivity, you’ll be better equipped to find a role that plays to your strengths.
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Worst Jobs for ADHD
An increased risk of job-related problems, such as higher unemployment, poorer income, and unstable work, is associated with adult ADHD, according to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
The good news is that people with ADHD can succeed in any career with the right strategies.
Here are some of the worst careers for ADHD, and why:
| Worst Careers for ADHD | Reasons |
|---|---|
| Accountant | Accountants with ADHD might have difficulties with repetitive activities, and performing tasks that are time-sensitive. |
| Surgeon | High pressure, long hours, and great demand for focus can be not very suitable for a person with ADHD. |
| Journalist | Journalism requires a wide range of skills, from organizing, prioritizing, and preparing to feel self-conscious. They may also struggle with fulfilling internal deadlines. |
| Stockbroker | People with ADHD may struggle to manage high-stress employment, constant multitasking, and the need for quick decision-making. |
| Teacher | People with ADHD may struggle to organize, pay attention to detail, and manage multiple tasks at the same time. |
What To Consider When Applying for ADHD Jobs
The following techniques can assist people with ADHD in making wise career decisions and avoid worst careers for ADHD that can potentially mentally drain you.
Determine Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Consider your own advantages and disadvantages. Think about situations where ADHD-related difficulties could occur and concentrate on pursuing occupations that play to your strengths.
Follow Your Passions and Interests
Suggested career choices can boost engagement & motivation. Jobs that let them follow their passions tend to be very beneficial for people with ADHD.
Workplace Suitability
Take into account the workplace that best meets each person’s needs. Even though some ADHD patients may prefer a quieter, more structured atmosphere, however fast-paced, active surroundings may promote their development.
Evaluate The Specific Duties of Various Jobs
Seek jobs with a variety of activities that highlight your skills and provide opportunities for progress. For people with ADHD, maintaining organization and focus is essential.
Digital planners for ADHD are one resource that can be very beneficial. People with ADHD can benefit from digital planners in a number of ways, such as:
- Notifications: Digital planners may send notifications and reminders about approaching deadlines and critical tasks, allowing you to remain on top of your workload!
- Personalisation: Digital planners can be customised to meet the needs and preferences of each user.
- Accessibility: Digital planners are easy to use and stay organized while on the go, as they can be accessed from a variety of devices. For those with ADHD who might have memory problems, this accessibility is especially helpful.
- Visual Organization: Color-coding and categorization are two visual organization techniques that many digital planners offer. These tools can help you understand and prioritize your work. In this case, Notion is a popular productivity tool with a wide range of functions and customizable options that do just the trick for you.
Best Jobs for People With ADHD
Here’s a closer look at the job responsibilities for each of the top five ADHD-friendly careers, highlighting what makes them excellent for people with ADHD:
1. Creative Roles (e.g., Graphic Designer, Writer)
Why it’s great: Creative jobs allow for freedom and self-expression, keeping things fresh and exciting. For example, graphic designers often work with clients to understand their needs and incorporate feedback, requiring adaptability and creativity. Writers, on the other hand, brainstorming ideas, editing drafts, and sometimes collaborating with editors or other writers which keeps their work engaging.
Skills utilized: Individuals with ADHD usually think outside the box and produce novel ideas, making them perfect candidates for these occupations.
2. Sales Representative
Why it’s great: The dynamic environment and need for social interaction align well with the strengths of individuals with ADHD, allowing them to thrive in an energetic role. They often have to build and maintain relationships with clients, handle negotiations and demonstrate products/services to potential customers, often traveling to meet clients.
Skills utilized: Many people with ADHD are excellent communicators and can build strong connections with clients, helping them close deals with ease.
3. Emergency Services (e.g., EMT, Firefighter)
Why it fits: These jobs are fast-paced and unexpected, which engages those with ADHD and requires quick decision-making skills. For example, an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) may respond to emergency calls, assess the condition of patients, and offer pre-hospital care, all of which involve swift thinking and the ability to work under pressure.
Skills utilized: Individuals with ADHD frequently flourish under pressure, making them adept at reacting quickly in emergencies.
4. Entrepreneur
Why it’s great: Being your own boss means you can set your own pace and follow your passion. It’s an exciting way to keep things dynamic! This may include building and leading a team, fostering a positive work environment and motivating employees.
Skills utilized: Many ADHD individuals are creative and willing to take risks, making them well-suited for the ups and downs of running a business.
5. Physical Trainer or Coach
Why it’s great: These jobs involve movement and interaction, making them lively and fun. For example, you may have to develop and implement fitness programs tailored to clients’ goals, fitness levels, monitor client progress Provide nutritional guidance and advice to support clients’ overall health and well-being which will keep those daily personal interactions going.
Skills utilized: Those with ADHD often bring enthusiasm and motivation, which helps inspire clients to reach their fitness goals
FAQs
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to focus, pay attention, and control impulsive behaviors.
What jobs can’t you do with an ADHD diagnosis?
Jobs that involve frequent multitasking or quick decision-making can be very difficult for those with ADHD, therefore they are typically best avoided. These professions often need a high level of focus and attention to detail, which can be difficult for someone who struggles to concentrate for extended periods of time. Instead, seeking roles with more specified duties and defined responsibilities might result in a more happy work environment. Some of the worst careers for ADHD are accountants, teachers and stockbrokers.
High paying careers for ADHD
If you have ADHD, there are numerous high-paying careers that can capitalize on your skills. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) thrive in fast-paced environments, whereas sales reps use their energy and charisma to connect with clients. Event planners balance creativity and organization to keep each day enjoyable. If you enjoy cooking, becoming a chef offers a lively kitchen atmosphere, and computer programming allows for focused problem-solving.
Will an ADHD diagnosis stop me getting a job?
ADHD is recognised as a handicap and is legally protected in many Western nations. If an employer chooses not to hire you purely because of your ADHD diagnosis, they may be breaking the law. While certain occupations, such as airline pilots, may have distinct rules owing to safety concerns, the majority of other vocations should not provide substantial challenges. Regardless of your professional aspirations, it is critical to have a reliable diagnosis and get any required assistance.
