We are adjust our lives according to the challenges we face, but imagine having been doing that all through your life? How resilient and tenacious might we be if these adjustments and solutions to challenges are second nature? Enter a neurodiverse workforce!
We live in a changing and challenging world, and the way we adapt can help us to persevere, grow and become solutions focussed. Changing environments and challenges call for unusual thinking. So, why not look at how we can learn from each other. Here, we’ve identified 10 ways neurodiverse thinking can help us to adapt to an unusual world.
1. Creativity
Some individuals with a neurodiverse condition are known to have a keen sense of curiosity and can be very imaginative. Many artists, actors and authors are known to be neurodiverse and have been able to make great use of their imagination. This unique thinking style can be harnessed by unleashing your creative side. Try painting a picture (a great way to start is to look at paint by number kits), candle making, pottery and calligraphy writing. These are things we can all learn. Let your inner Picasso come through!
2. Resilience
Many neurodiverse individuals have faced obstacles and setbacks through their life, meaning that they have developed strategies to help them become more resilient and move forward. “Look at the positives” when trying to adapt to change. Individuals with a neurodiverse condition implement strategies to solve problems and create workarounds, helping them become more resilient. Resilience can also be improved by doing things like mindfulness, yoga, or starting a journal and writing down 3 things they are grateful for.
3. Innovation
Many successful entrepreneurs are neurodiverse. It has been speculated that social distancing and experiencing a lockdown could have resulted in many more innovative ideas and new businesses forming. Some individuals have switched their attention to marketing their ideas in this new world by using technology and social media. Why are so many entrepreneurs neurodiverse? They are proactive and let their ideas flow. They have flexibility to let their passion come through and enjoy talking through their ideas with others. Some find using a mind map can be very helpful to break their ideas down, which can help translate the idea into actions. Use this free time to think about your ideas, get them down into a mind map and set some actions for yourself.
4. Routine
Many individuals with Autism Spectrum condition (ASC) have a real strength for punctuality. Developing a clear, structured routine can really help with managing life under lockdown restrictions. Some individuals with a neurodiverse condition struggle with organisation but have implemented highly effective coping mechanisms. These include having a set routine for when to start/end the day and when to take a lunch break. Working from home can sometimes result in not taking enough breaks, so adding lunch breaks in your calendar can help with sticking to a routine. Going for a walk before you start work can help you feel more energised, and it could create time for exercise. Having a routine can be very helpful to those that need to share childcare and other responsibilities while working.
5. Problem solving
One thing that Covid-19 has taught us is that we need to think differently, and neurodiverse individuals are skilled at identifying issues and developing a plan to solve problems. People with Dyslexia and ADHD, for example, are often out-of-the box thinkers with the ability to see the bigger picture, and that’s beneficial in times of uncertainty. On the other hand, people with Autism often have superb attention to detail, and when it comes to problem-solving, that’s beneficial to businesses adapting to change.
6. Hyperfocus
A lot of people with a neurodiverse condition have the ability of hyperfocus, a strength that allows them to really focus on something that interests them. The ability to remain focused, and not become distracted by what is going on around you, can really help with productivity. It allows individuals to engage in activities that offer enjoyment and psychological reward. If there is a task that you are particularly interested in at work, ask to participate in more of these. When at home, if you have an interest in things like astronomy, or have a home DIY project, use this interest to focus your attention, and try not get distracted by things outside of your control. Planning your time can also really help with focus.
7. Empathy
Empathy can be a strength some neurodiverse individuals possess. During this uncertain time, many people may be feeling overwhelmed, therefore practicing empathy could be beneficial for yourself and others. Promoting work-life balance can reduce undue burden and being flexible with deadlines during this period can really help. Offering emotional support to others, where possible, can help them feel cared about and it shows that you are considerate of their challenges.
8. Social Interaction
Some neurodiverse individuals can have good verbal communication skills and are more inclined to build cohesiveness and bring people together. They organise more communication through phone or via video conferencing, as some can have difficulty composing emails and prefer using their verbal strengths. A positive impact that people with a neurodiverse condition have reported during this pandemic is that they are socialising more with colleagues than they ever did before. For example, they have taken part in team quizzes and family game nights. This can help us all with social interaction and connection at a time where we are required to socially distance ourselves in person.
9. Logical Thinking
Another thing the pandemic has taught us is that we need to think logically and rationally about decisions. Some individuals that are neurodiverse, such as those with ASC, can be logical thinkers and tend to think systematically by using data. This can be helpful for those that need to make decisions that are free from confirmation bias.
10. Honesty
A trait that many neurodiverse individuals possess is honesty. This should always be encouraged, particularly during the pandemic, for people to reach out and ask for help and support if they are feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to adapt to working under restricted conditions. Being honest with others about things like project deadlines or the impact of Covid-19 on the business can bring in authenticity and respect.
Previous articles by Lexxic have contributed to this blog. Lexxic are leaders in empowering neurodiversity in the workplace. A specialist psychological consultancy, they believe all minds belong, so it is their mission to inspire a working world that supports and values the talents of neurodiverse minds, empowering individuals to be their best selves at work.
Check out other Blogs in our series:
Please contact Robinson Grace HR for further advice and support via clientservices@robinsongracehr.com or call us on 01793 311937 to see if we can help you.
The content of our blogs is intended for general information only and does not replace legal or other professional advice.
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