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How do executive function problems manifest at work? 

PostedSeptember 30, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Executive dysfunction at work can significantly impact productivity, organisation, and performance. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with various aspects of executive function, including planning, prioritising, and managing time. These difficulties can lead to workplace ADHD issues, which may result in missed deadlines, incomplete tasks, and stress. 

One of the key challenges with executive dysfunction at work is maintaining focus and organisation. Individuals may find it hard to prioritise tasks, often leading to procrastination or feeling overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities. Additionally, ADHD job challenges can involve difficulty with task initiation, causing delays in getting started on projects. 

Common Symptoms 

Workplace ADHD Issues 

Workplace ADHD issues often include forgetfulness or disorganisation, where important tasks or meetings may be overlooked. Employees with executive dysfunction may struggle to maintain a tidy workspace, leading to lost documents or missed deadlines. 

Executive Skills at Work 

Another challenge is the lack of executive skills at work. People with ADHD may have trouble setting goals, managing time, or adjusting to changes in their work environment. This can make it difficult to complete projects on time or adjust to shifting priorities. 

Recognising the signs of executive dysfunction at work can help individuals develop strategies to improve organisation, time management, and productivity, ultimately improving their job performance and reducing workplace stress. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Executive Function Deficits.

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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