The 3 Threads Framework
Cohesion isn't about conforming
Forget the standard advice about making your resume and LinkedIn profile look "clean" and linear. Real cohesion doesn't mean trimming the truth. It's about drawing out the threads that tie your story together—the skills, values, and themes that make your journey unique.
Each role you've taken on—whether it was a step up, a pivot, or even a step sideways—has contributed to the professional you are today. These threads connect to form a bigger picture.
The 3 Threads Framework
This isn't about rewriting your history. It's about seeing the patterns that already connect your story. Here's how to approach it:
1️⃣ Identify key patterns:
Look beyond job titles and think about what's been consistent across your roles:
What types of challenges do you naturally enjoy tackling?
When colleagues come to you for help, what do they usually want?
What skills or strengths have you quietly built, no matter where you've worked?
For many ADHD professionals, these threads often show up as underlying strengths, like being the go-to person for problem-solving, seeing connections others miss, or creating structure where there was none.
You're not chasing one perfect role; you're playing out a consistent strength in different ways.
2️⃣ Weave them into a narrative:
Once you've spotted your patterns, the next step is to make them visible in your story. Instead of focusing on timelines or job descriptions, explain the common threads that run through your work:
"I've always been drawn to simplifying complex information and making it easy for others to understand."
"I bring energy to projects by connecting people and ideas across teams."
This shifts the focus from what you did to why you did it and how you made an impact. It lets your audience see the bigger picture without needing every detail.
3️⃣ Tie them to your future vision:
Most people describe their past but leave the future vague. ADHD minds, with their nonlinear thinking, can struggle with projecting forward—but this is where the threads come in. Use them to articulate where you're headed:
"Looking ahead, I want to continue building on my strength for translating complex concepts into actionable strategies, helping teams execute more effectively."
"I'm excited to apply my ability to connect ideas and people in a role focused on cross-functional collaboration and innovation."
The goal isn't to predict a perfect job title—it's to show that your journey makes sense and points naturally toward where you're going next.
Your story's strength is its layers
There's a common belief that employers only want to see neat, linear timelines. But in reality, they're looking for stories that make sense—stories that show growth, adaptability, and real-world skills.
Instead of trying to make your story fit a mold, focus on depth and connection. Highlight the threads that give your journey meaning, the lessons you’ve learned, and the direction you’re heading.
That's what makes a story resonate.
Let's make it work
Set a timer for five minutes. Write down three threads that connect your experiences:
What patterns keep coming up?
What skills or values have stayed consistent across different roles?
How do they align with the kind of work you want to do next?
Don't worry about polishing the story yet—just look for the patterns. Once you see them, you'll realize your path isn't as scattered as it seems.
Your ADHD brain brings perspective, creativity, and the ability to see connections others might miss. When you trust that and lean in, your story comes together.
