Don’t fear getting fired if you have ADHD
For people with ADHD, getting fired can happen—and that's okay. I've been fired once and quit four times, and I no longer view it as a failure. My history of changing jobs used to make me feel like I didn't fit into society, especially before I understood how ADHD influenced my work performance and relationships.
If you work full-time and have ADHD, you need to let go of the fear of losing your job. That anxiety consumes valuable mental energy better used elsewhere. Job loss isn't a personal failing; it's simply a mismatch between your brain and your environment. If it happens, so be it.
American workplaces are typically designed for neurotypical individuals who are committed to a strict Protestant work ethic, expecting consistent focus and steady performance. ADHD traits like time blindness, limited working memory, craving stimulation, and sensitivity to rejection often clash with these expectations. Employers frequently misinterpret these traits as laziness, carelessness, unreliability, or defensiveness. You probably won't change their perceptions, so don't exhaust yourself trying to prove otherwise.
Getting fired isn't a reflection of your worth; it's about compatibility. Your brain is telling you something important—listen to it. There's a path forward, but it will take time to discover it, guided by your own experiences, background, and what genuinely motivates you. Every job you leave teaches valuable lessons. Reflect on what drains your energy and what fuels you, and use those insights to find roles that align better with your needs.
Regularly ask yourself: "Will worrying about this job matter two years from now?" It won’t. Jobs come and go. Understanding your needs and aligning your work with them is what truly counts.
I write about ADHD in men. It would be an honor to have you as a subscriber. Here, I share what I've learned, what I've unlearned, and my reflections along the way.