The first in a series of articles demonstrating the benefits of identifying, owning and deploying one’s neurodivergent strengths in the workplace.
Have you ever questioned advice on how to succeed? Counterintuitive as it may seem, for neurodivergent individuals, effective work often means disregarding conventional wisdom. Finding your sweet spot could be your best strategy yet.
Reframing what good performance requires
Consider this case: my client, a senior leader with #dyslexia and #ADHD understood that being organised and getting things done doesn’t automatically require endless hours of slog.
Recalling how he had smoothly masterminded a social event, he realised he had a more intuitive solution to manage the many and overwhelming thoughts pressing in on him and slowing him down:
- Depicting on one page his key responsibilities as coloured, interconnected shapes provided clarity and structure.
- Each task found its place now had a home, making prioritisation seamless.
Breaking free from the tyranny neurotypical norms
This shift transformed planning from a chore to a joy. He said “The more I used my connected shapes, the clearer I am about what is important and what I should tackle next. I can’t believe how much easier it is.”
In one moment, he freed himself from the tyranny of spreadsheets. He allowed his extraordinary ability to conceptualise innovative solutions to complex problems to take centre stage.
By embracing his unique neurodistinct approach, he not only boosted his productivity but also cultivated a deeper sense of calm and confidence.
Ready to unleash your neurodivergent strengths?
Follow these tips:
- Define your goal and how you’ll measure success.
- Identify your strengths and what tasks come naturally to you.
- Combine strategies from different contexts to uncover new solutions.
- Equip yourself with the tools and resources needed to implement your approach.
- Communicate any changes to colleagues, fostering a supportive work environment.