ADHD and job hopping

‘Sometimes the right path is not the easiest one’ – Pocahontas.

Traditionally speaking, career paths have been straightforward. The young person discovers an area of strength or interest at school, which is then developed through specialist training or higher-level qualifications. Employment is obtained in the field and steady progression made through the ranks until retirement. 

Over the last 50 years there has been a shift from linear to more portfolio-based career paths. Portfolio careers being those involving a variety of roles in different occupations within different organisations. 

Extreme versions of the portfolio path are likely to be followed by those on the ADHD spectrum. 

‘Job hopping’ is common among these individuals as a result of their overwhelming need for novelty and change. Sometimes they may feel guilty about their apparent inability to follow a career path that is more in line with neurotypical expectations. 

Facts for job hoppers to remember: –

• It is what it is. ADHD brains have always been motivated by new challenges. The ‘feel good’ hormone dopamine can be low in those with ADHD, but variety and novelty will boost their production of this hormone, which in turn will motivate and energise the individual. 
• A bank of transferable skills is priceless. The ability, for example, to communicate, understand and relate to those from different professional, economic and social backgrounds, is an invaluable skill for success at work. These skills will develop through the experience of interacting with different groups in different work settings. 
• Being proactive in response to job dissatisfaction is courageous. Many adults stay in occupations or positions they dislike because they are afraid of change.
• You alone know what type of activity will prolong your interest in a job, so act on that knowledge. Before applying for a job, find out what the post offers that you would enjoy and find motivating. For example: additional training, outreach work, independent research, in-house promotion, opportunities to work with others, or the chance to cross fertilize ideas within the company. 
• Pursuing activities purely for fun is a valid choice. Random interests often turn into an employment opportunity, become a useful skill to add to your CV, develop social networks, or simply provide relaxation and amusement for the week.
• Engaging in several interests simultaneously can support motivation. In addition to the day job, take up a creative hobby, play a preferred sport, join a political movement, work towards a qualification, or engage in voluntary work. Juggling a number of activities will provide options when boredom strikes. If interest begins to flag in one area, engaging in an alternative will be re-energising. 
• Identifying the parts of the job that appeal most to you may be advantageous. What aspects of the work really interest you and provide most satisfaction? Would it be possible to use that knowledge to tweak the less appealing, more tedious aspects of the work to come in line with your preferred approach? Might it be possible to collaborate with colleagues and exchange tasks, so you both work to your preferences? 

Conclusion

The neurotypical work force will provide continuity and stability, but may be set in their ways or resistant to change. The ADHD work force will provide hyperfocus and energy, but their enthusiasm is likely to wane after a period of time. Both groups, when managed appropriately and their strengths accommodated, will be able make different, but equal, contributions to success in the work environment. 

‘Life is too short to stuff a mushroom’ – Shirley Conran.