Managing Chaos at Work: A Personal Story of ADHD and Self-Awareness

Hi, I'm Cathy Rashidian, an executive coach specializing in ADHD at work, a thinking partner, and a neuroinclusion speaker for the workplace.

I specialize in helping high-achieving executives/managers turn overwhelm into intentional success. With years of experience in navigating the fast-paced corporate world, I've seen firsthand how chaotic work environments can impact performance—especially for those of us with #ADHD. Through my coaching, I guide leaders to unlearn behaviours that hinder their progress and adopt strategies that support their highest potential.

Welcome to chaos in the workplace

You've probably felt the pressure of working in a chaotic environment. Whether it's constant deadlines, shifting priorities, or the overwhelming pace, chaos can feel like the norm in today's work culture. But I want to share a bit of my own story today, including the lessons I've learned on how to not just survive but actually thrive in the midst of all that noise. So grab a coffee, and let's talk about navigating the chaos.

For a long time, I thought thriving in chaos was a strength of mine. I'd juggle tasks, manage crises, and push through at full speed without batting an eye. With ADHD, this constant buzz of activity felt almost natural to me. I could function in high-energy environments while my personal life crumbled behind the scenes. Sound familiar? But here's the thing—I eventually had to hit pause. Running on overdrive isn't a badge of honor; it's a recipe for burnout.

The Different Shades of Chaos

Not all chaos is created equal. For those of us with ADHD, there's a fine line between chaos that fuels us and chaos that drags us down. On one hand, some of us thrive in fast-paced settings like emergency rooms or tech startups, where the stakes are high, and things move quickly. But then there's the other side: disorganization, uncertainty, constant change, and lack of clear expectations. That's the kind of chaos that can make even the most resilient person feel overwhelmed.

Fast-Paced Environments: A Blessing and a Curse

Looking back at my 20-year tech career, I can see how much I fed off the fast pace. It was exciting to jump from one project to the next, riding the wave of constant change. But here's the truth: I got so used to that adrenaline rush, I started identifying with it. In job interviews, I'd proudly declare that I "thrived under stress" like it was a superpower. But deep down, I knew it wasn't sustainable. The pace wore me out, and I had to confront the fact that it's okay not to be constantly 'on.'

The Problem with "Toxic Hustle"

You know what I'm talking about: the toxic hustle culture. The mindset that says you should always be working, always producing, always squeezing the most out of every minute. Honestly, it's exhausting. Humans aren't machines; when we force ourselves to operate like one, our creativity, productivity, and mental health suffer. I had to learn the hard way that taking breaks isn't a luxury—it's essential. It's in those moments of rest that we regain our clarity and, ultimately, perform better.

The Turning Point: Self-Awareness

For me, the real turning point came with self-awareness. I began asking myself some tough questions: "What do I need to feel my best?" and "What environments help me thrive, and which ones make me falter?" Understanding your strengths and limitations is critical when navigating chaotic work cultures. Once I understood my needs, I could start making changes that allowed me to function more effectively.

Speaking Up for Your Needs

One of the most empowering things you can do is advocate for yourself. Don't be afraid to speak up if you're struggling in a chaotic work environment. You don't have to disclose your ADHD or any personal struggles if you don't want to, but asking for what you need is crucial. For me, that meant occasionally working from a coffee shop, where the ambient noise actually helped me focus better. Little adjustments like that can make a huge difference.

Understanding Your Processing Style

Everyone processes information differently, and knowing your style is a game-changer. Some people need to hear instructions, others need to see them, and some need to write things down or talk them out to make sense of them. Once I figured out how I process best, I began communicating that to my team and supervisors. Whether requesting written instructions or needing a space to brainstorm out loud, don't hesitate to ask for what helps you thrive.

Self-Care Isn't Optional

Let's be real—self-care is non-negotiable. And no, I'm not just talking about bubble baths or spa days (though those are great too). Self-care means recognizing when you're overstimulated or exhausted and giving yourself what you need to reset your brain and nervous system. For me, that can be a short walk, stepping away from the screen for a bit, or simply taking a few deep breaths. It's about finding what works for you and making it a priority, even in the middle of the chaos.

One Step at a Time

Managing chaos in the workplace is a journey, not a quick fix. But it's possible to find balance. It starts with understanding yourself—your needs, limits, and strengths—and then advocating for them. Remember, it's okay to step back when you need to. It's okay to ask for help, to slow down, or even change directions entirely if that's what your well-being requires.

So, here's to embracing the chaos, but on your terms. One step at a time, you can create a work environment that doesn't just ask you to survive but allows you to thrive.

Take good care of yourself. You're worth it.

Bridging the Gap Between Knowing and Doing

If you're a high performer Executive, you already know the tips I've shared here. The challenge, however, isn't in the knowing—it's in the doing. That's where I come in.

My coaching approach is designed to bridge that gap, helping you move from understanding what needs to change to actually implementing it in your daily life.

Together, we'll create a personalized roadmap that allows you to unlearn the habits that no longer serve you and embrace new strategies for intentional, sustainable success.

Ready to take the next step toward a more intentional and successful life? Apply to work with me one-on-one, and let's create a pathway to your optimal self.

Your dedicated thinking partner

Coach Cathy