Hey everyone, I'm reaching out to my fellow AuDHD folks for some advice on managing that constant struggle between chaos and the need for structure in our lives. I was diagnosed with ADHD combined type just last year at 32, and let me tell you, my meds have really turned things around for me—at least in terms of mental clarity and work performance. Recently, I've also discovered I'm likely autistic.
Working a regular 8-5 is exhausting for me, and I'm seriously considering options like a 4-day work week or even working from home just once a week because I hold things together pretty well at work, but the daily grind is draining.
I'm really passionate about my job in IT as a sysadmin because it aligns with both my ADHD and ASD, but managing appointments and phone calls during work hours adds to the chaos. I'm looking for advice on how to navigate this, whether it gets easier over time, and if I should be seeking out jobs that offer more flexible schedules, like at a data center. Any insight or personal experiences would really help! Have any of you found effective strategies to cope with chaos while keeping structure in your life?
5 Answers
Honestly, I can relate to needing that structure! While I often lean towards remote work, I've found that being in an office can help me switch on my 'work mode' and avoid distractions. One thing I've learned is to manage multiple projects at once—it helps keep me on track even when I procrastinate on some of them. Also, I use tools like Obsidian to keep things organized, but it's easy to get caught up in optimizing the system instead of actually using it.
100%! Once you understand yourself better and put in the effort to create organizational tools, things do get easier. It’s gradual though—don't expect overnight changes. External tools like to-do lists can help manage the chaos. Just remember, it's okay to take a breather; you don't have to be at 100% all the time. I even have an app that reminds me to take care of myself, which is necessary because I tend to forget those basic tasks.
Been in the game since before ADD was even a term! My secret sauce is a mix of discipline, routine, and a trusty calendar—these are the keys to staying functional. I set a solid routine that includes everything from workouts to work hours while squeezing in some downtime for mindless web surfing. By tracking everything in my calendar from important calls to meetings, I keep myself accountable, which makes it easier to stay on top of what needs to be done.
It's been three years since my diagnosis, and I can say it does get easier! It really helps to use external tools to keep organized—think calendars for scheduling, sticky notes for reminders, and just taking the time to document everything. Over time, you'll notice you adapt and get better at managing things. And about your meds—if you're on stimulants and feeling burnt out, you might want to explore non-stim options. Therapy alongside medication can really make a difference, too.
Finding your rhythm is crucial! It took me years to sort out what works best for me, and it definitely involves trial and error. Meds were a game changer for me, and working from home has been a big boost too—my environment really helps with focus. I recommend experimenting to find your best workflow. Just start small, even five minutes can help kick off a project and build momentum.
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