for 20 years I pursued a computer career. I worked for a college (after getting BSc in computer sci.) as a teacher, water plant systems tech, computer repair shop and finally my own computer store in one form or another it was computers . Always I could keep interest for around 2 or 3 years - only to self-destruct for one lame reason or another.
One thing I notice is that I always did better when there was a tight form of "chain of command" in place. The more they trusted me to get things done without supervision, the higher the stress I put on myself. More stress meant a quicker trip to blowing up. I think that without training in self-management and councilling/med therapy that it's hard for someone with more than mild ADHD to keep life together more than a short while. That was my experience anyways.
Now that I'm aware of my problems, getting meds and therapy for it I know that even with a little less leash I can do whatever I choose. Right now I work in a manufacturing plant doing routine packing of products into boxes. The relief at not having to have more responsibility was absolutely FREEING!!! I felt like someone had taken a great weight off of me.
Right now I'm making good money, getting to enjoy my free time (even enjoy working on computers again!), and finding things like hobbies are fun. I talk to lots of people on forums like this and find control over the urge to be scattered and move from topic to topic like I used to.
I'm finding my work ethic is 100% better than it was. I take great pride in my work and help others around me reach the common goals of my company. This is something I would never have done during the most severe ADHD times I had. It was always "look out for #1" before. Now I empathize rather than sympathize when I see a person hurting or doing poorly. I got my first "excellent" work assessment by my employer EVER!! Always considered "bright but uninspired" before. I wish I could have had the insight and creativity that I hear other ADHD sufferers having had. It always wrecked my opportunities before I could get creative!
I think we ADHD'ers can do whatever we truly want to do if we get the help we need in regards to focus and direction. I think some of us also have found work to be the one place they could succeed when the rest fell apart. It would have been nice - I've had some pretty choice jobs in the past.
I'm interested to hear from others in the same boat. I'd hate to think I was the most messed up in this regards!! lol !!
GlenW38544.1159953704I can tell you right now, stay away from a desk job!