💼 PROFESSIONALISM
“Professionalism is not about suits or titles. It’s about respect—for your work, for others, and for yourself.” – Unknown
Professionalism isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. In the ADHD terrain—where time slips, focus falters, and systems often feel like cages—professionalism becomes a quiet, defiant act of integrity. It’s the art of showing up with your full humanity and your best effort.
For ADHDers, professionalism can be tricky. We may struggle with executive function—missing deadlines, forgetting meetings, or writing emails that sit in drafts for days. But professionalism is more than logistics. It’s how you carry yourself when things go sideways. It’s how you communicate, how you repair, how you try again.
Living this value means crafting systems that support your strengths. It means naming your needs, asking for accommodations without apology, and respecting others’ time and contributions—while still honouring your own. It’s about finding ways to do your work well, even if it doesn’t look conventional.
And professionalism includes boundaries. It’s knowing when to pause, when to delegate, when to say “that’s enough.” For ADHDers, professionalism isn’t a mask—it’s a mindset: I’m here, I care, and I’m doing my best to meet this moment with presence and respect.
🧭 The HOPE Trail Map
- Helps or Harms: Am I holding myself to sustainable standards—or unrealistic expectations?
- Own My Values: I want to be someone who brings care, honesty, and effort to my work—even on hard days.
- People and Pursuits: Who models professionalism with warmth and humanity? What environments help me feel both accountable and understood?
- Enact and Evaluate: Today, I’ll choose one small act that aligns with how I want to show up—email, follow-up, prep, or pause.
⚠️ Trail Challenges
- Executive dysfunction can undermine reliability.
- Internalised shame may lead to overcompensation or perfectionism.
- Masking in professional spaces can lead to burnout and disconnection.
🪧 Trail Markers: Small Steps Toward Professionalism
- Use a “next right step” list to avoid overwhelm.
- Send a clarifying or kind follow-up—even if it’s late.
- Name your working style and needs with honesty: “Here’s how I stay organised...”
🔥 Campfire Questions for Reflection
- What does professionalism mean to me—on my own terms?
- When have I shown up with integrity, even if it wasn’t perfect?
- What structure or tool helps me meet my commitments with more ease?
Professionalism isn’t about flawless performance. It’s about showing up with respect—for the task, for the people, and for the kind of person you’re becoming.
