My ADHD Accounting Journey

So recently, I found out I have ADHD. I was diagnosed 30 years ago but didn't know it. Here's what happened:

  1. Last year, I finally downloaded TikTok

  2. The algorithm started pushing me ADHD influencer content, making me wonder if I had it

  3. Over dinner, I casually mentioned this to my parents

  4. My mom dropped the bombshell: "Oh, you do have ADHD."

Turns out, I was diagnosed at 10, but my parents never told me. Different times, different attitudes about mental health. They didn't want it to hold me back.

This explains so much about my struggles in public accounting:

  • Can't sit through hours-long sessions and meetings

  • Difficulty with long workdays in the office

  • Frustration with endless timesheets

But here's the thing: my ADHD also fuels my creativity and ability to see things differently. It's a big part of my success in creating new solutions for our profession. It's why I built and sold my accounting firm, scaled marketing at two tech companies, and now am running my own startup.

So, what if accounting firms embraced neurodiversity instead of trying to force everyone into the same mold?

Imagine a world where:

  • Flexible work schedules are the norm

  • Creative problem-solving is valued over grinding out billable hours

  • Managers use results-oriented evaluations instead of rigid time-based metrics

  • Firms actively recruit and support neurodivergent and creative professionals

  • Companies offer mental health coaching and support as part of professional development

We're facing a massive talent shortage in accounting. Maybe it's time to tap into the untapped potential accountants who think different.

What do you think? I've received many emails from listeners with similar struggles. It's nice to know I'm not alone.

Whether you're a firm leader or someone working in a firm, I want to hear from you:

  • What challenges have you faced?

  • What support would make the biggest difference?

  • Have you seen successful examples of accommodations?

You can reach me here: https://www.blakeoliver.com/contact

If you want to hear the whole story, listen to Episode 388 of The Accounting Podcast: https://accounting.show/388

Blake Oliver