Everybody has their own set of strengths and weaknesses, especially those of us living with ADHD. When it comes to careers and money management, these variations become particularly evident. Some of us excel in certain tasks, whether it’s budgeting, investing, or simply understanding the intricacies of money. Others might struggle with motivation or feel overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of work and financial management. A common challenge we face is the constant need for stimulation, which can lead to impulsive spending or difficulty staying engaged in our jobs and financial goals.
To make real progress in these goals, it's crucial to identify and connect with our intrinsic motivations on a deep level. This process can be challenging, but it's the key to achieving lasting change. Shell Mendelson, an ADHD career coach, brings a wealth of experience and insight into how we can align our careers with personal values and financial goals, elevating our lives and promoting positive futures. We explore some of her insights in this blogpost, and how these ideals can transform the mindsets and lives of those with ADHD.
Mendelson has spent 35 years refining her approach to career counseling, particularly for those with ADHD. Trained by Richard Bolles, author of What Color is Your Parachute?, Shell has adapted and expanded upon his methods to better suit the needs of her clients. Visual aids, metaphors, and a step-by-step process help individuals articulate their career goals and find fulfillment in their work.
She notes that many people with ADHD find themselves in jobs that are draining and unfulfilling, often leading to performance issues and further stress. She also emphasizes the importance of finding work that aligns with our passions and strengths, transforming what might otherwise be a "soul-sucking" chore into something meaningful and engaging.
Shell’s masterclasses and book guide people through identifying their "must-haves"—the essential elements that bring satisfaction and purpose to their careers. For those with ADHD, having a sense of purpose is paramount. It sets the foundation for daily actions and long-term goals. Let’s explore a few of these ideas below.
For individuals with ADHD, having a purpose-driven approach to careers and financial management is not just beneficial; it's essential. The unique ways in which our brains function often mean that we thrive on engagement, passion, and a clear sense of direction. Without these elements, we can quickly become disinterested, leading to poor performance and dissatisfaction.
Understanding and embracing our unique strengths and needs is a key step in this process. Each person with ADHD has a distinct set of skills and challenges, and recognizing these can help us tailor our career and financial strategies to fit who we truly are. This self-awareness allows us to silence the negative internal dialogue—the "safekeeping self"—that discourages us from taking risks or pursuing our true interests. This self can often bombard us with doubts and fears, telling us we can't or shouldn't take certain paths because they don't fit the conventional mold or seem too risky.
One of the most empowering realizations is that our interests and passions, even if they seem unrelated to our primary work, are valuable and worthy of pursuit. For example, an accountant with a deep passion for visual arts might feel that their creative interests are irrelevant to their career. However, acknowledging and honoring this passion can provide a much-needed outlet for self-expression and fulfillment. This doesn't mean abandoning one's career but rather integrating these interests into one's life in a meaningful way.
Engaging in activities that align with our passions can rejuvenate us, making us more effective and satisfied in our primary work. It’s about creating a balanced life where professional responsibilities and personal interests coexist harmoniously. This approach helps in mitigating the sense of monotony and burnout that often accompanies a career that lacks personal connection and excitement.
While ADHD presents certain challenges, it also brings a unique set of strengths that can be highly beneficial in careers. One of the standout traits is hyperfocus, where those with ADHD can immerse themselves deeply in a task, driven by sheer enjoyment and engagement. This hyperfocus allows for exceptional productivity and creativity, especially in tasks we find stimulating and rewarding. However, it's important to balance this intense focus with other life responsibilities, like spending time with our family or stepping away from the home office to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
In addition to hyperfocus, individuals with ADHD often possess high levels of creativity and problem-solving skills. We tend to think outside the box and can bring innovative solutions to the table. Our ability to quickly adapt and think on our feet can be invaluable in dynamic and fast-paced environments. Furthermore, our enthusiasm and passion for projects we care about can be infectious, inspiring and motivating our colleagues.
However, not all corporate environments are conducive to leveraging these strengths. Traditional corporate cultures that emphasize rigid structures and standardizatiob may feel isolating or soul-crushing, especially when individuals with ADHD are expected to conform to neurotypical standards without appropriate accommodations. Fortunately, some forward-thinking companies are recognizing the value of neurodiverse employees and are making strides to create inclusive workplaces that support diverse working styles. For those of us with ADHD, finding a career or work environment that embraces our unique traits and offers the necessary support can lead to exceptional personal and professional fulfillment.
Incorporating purpose and fulfillment into our lives involves more than just professional success; it's about overall well-being. When we align our careers and financial goals with our intrinsic motivations and personal values, we create a more sustainable and enjoyable life. This holistic approach ensures that we are not just financially stable but also mentally and emotionally fulfilled.
For those with ADHD, this alignment can be transformative. It shifts the focus from merely surviving in a job to thriving in a career that resonates with our true selves. The pursuit of purpose and fulfillment becomes a guiding principle, helping us navigate the complexities of both our professional and personal lives with greater ease and satisfaction.
If you find yourself stuck in an unfulfilling job or struggling to manage your finances effectively, consider seeking out resources and support tailored to your needs. Whether it's through a career coach like Shell Mendelson or dedicated financial management tools, the right support can make a significant difference.
Remember, it’s about finding what works for you, understanding your intrinsic motivations, and aligning your career and financial goals with your values and strengths. With patience and the right guidance, you can transform your relationship with money and work into something truly fulfilling.
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