Thriving in remote work with ADHD

I’m excited to share my journey at SmartCo as a remote working mother of 2, recently diagnosed with ADHD after several years of misdiagnosed post-natal depression. Since my diagnosis, I’ve discovered that challenges I once faced have become strengths, and I hope my learning can inspire others.

The Power of Task Lists and Clear Objectives

Living with ADHD means I need structure to thrive. Task lists are my lifeline, helping me break down work into manageable chunks. Tools like Trello and Planner keep me organised and on track. Clear objectives are crucial – knowing exactly what I need to deliver helps me stay focused and motivated. Without this, I easily become disengaged and often question myself as to what am I aiming for?

Deadlines: My Productivity Boosters

Deadlines are my best friends. They give me a sense of urgency and a clear timeframe to accomplish tasks. This helps me manage my time effectively and ensures I meet my goals without feeling overwhelmed. There’s no better feeling than ticking off the ‘To Do’s’ at the end of the day. I find this approach works at home too when I give myself 10 minutes to put the laundry away before my next call!

Spotting Improvements and Simplifying Processes

One of my superpowers is spotting inefficiencies. I can see where steps can be shortened, savings can be made, and processes can be simplified. Why make things harder than it needs to be? This knack for streamlining operations has given me access to lots of opportunities, and I enjoy it! Shameful to say this is not effective at home when I have Amazon, Netflix, Disney+ subscriptions which hardly get used!

The Importance of Effective Communication

I have worked remotely for 6 years now which works well for me for my work-life balance but it also means I rely heavily on effective communications. Effective communication is vital for everyone, not just those with neurodiversity or home workers. As companies grow and scale, maintaining clear and open communication channels is essential. At SmartCo, I champion effective and consistent communication to ensure everyone, whether remote or onsite, feels part of the team. Virtual ‘water cooler’ chats help foster a sense of community and keep us connected.

These are just some of my ADHD quirks, that have become the foundations of finding the right employer. I would always ensure that they can support me in these areas.

Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Employers can play a significant role in supporting neurodiverse employees. Here are a few ways:

• Flexible Hours: Allowing employees to work during their most productive times
• Right Tools: Providing access to productivity apps and communication platforms
• Regular Check-Ins: Frequent catch-ups (remote and onsite) to keep everyone on track
• Training and Awareness: Educating the team about neurodiversity to foster understanding.
• Supportive Culture: Promoting mental health awareness and providing resources

About SmartCo Consulting

SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.