ADHD-Driven Unemployment

I am turning in my letter of resignation in approximately 97 minutes. What in the world would lead me to give up a part-time, decent-paying job with paid vacation and sick time in this economy? At a library, no less, the perfect setting for someone who loves to read and write.

ADHD-fueled desperation, that's what. And I don't even have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)! My daughter, Natalie, does.

My knight in shining armor (husband) and I went out for dinner Friday night, and we talked the situation over: I'm terribly unhappy at work, and desperately overwhelmed at home. This isn't a new topic. You may remember that back in November I was ready to resign, and then chickened out. Now, the decision seems more clear-cut. I've given it time, and I've tried several tactics to make my work situation more tenable.

I've also tried a variety of tactics to make our home life more tolerable: setting up in-home services for Natalie, hiring a college student (briefly) to do the laundry, working with a professional organizer. And I'm still not coping.

It's time.

With the decision made, I feel fantastic. With less to cope with, I'll be able to get through times like last night, when Nat woke up at 3:30 a.m. and couldn't get back to sleep until 6:00. Fitting in all of her doctor and therapy appointments will be a lot easier. I'll have more emotional energy to call on when Nat's needy for attention.

So what if I'll have to give up coffee shops, my occasional pedicure, and my subscription to Audible.com? My children are worth it. My health is worth it.

68 minutes. Wish me luck!

Oh, and I'm not really unemployed, I'm a freelance writer. Spread the word: WILL WORK FOR COFFEE MONEY!