10 Ways Neurodiverse Thinking Can Help Us Adapt
- Robinson Grace HR
- Nov 20, 2020
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 11, 2025
We are all adjusting to an unusual and fast-changing world. Rather than looking for a hero to save the day, we can learn from each other and embrace different ways of thinking. Here are 10 ways neurodiverse thinking can help us adapt, persevere, and even thrive.
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 neurodiverse and have harnessed their imagination to excel in their fields. Explore your creative side through painting, pottery, candle making, calligraphy, or other hobbies that inspire you.
2. Resilience
Neurodiverse individuals often develop strategies to overcome challenges and setbacks, building resilience. Practices such as mindfulness, yoga, or journaling daily gratitude can help maintain a positive and resilient mindset.
3. Innovation
Neurodiverse people are often proactive and imaginative thinkers. Use mind maps or similar tools to break down ideas and plan actionable steps. This approach can help generate innovative solutions and practical outcomes in work or personal projects.
4. Routine
Many individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) thrive on structure and routine. Setting clear routines for starting and ending the day, taking breaks, and managing responsibilities can improve focus, productivity, and overall wellbeing.
5. Problem Solving
Neurodiverse individuals are skilled at identifying issues and developing solutions. People with Dyslexia or ADHD often think outside the box, while those with Autism may have exceptional attention to detail. These complementary skills help when adapting to change or solving complex challenges.
6. Hyperfocus
Some neurodiverse individuals can hyperfocus on tasks that interest them, enhancing productivity and engagement. Identify areas of interest and dedicate time to them, whether at work or in hobbies, to maximise focus and enjoyment.
7. Empathy
Empathy is a strength for some neurodiverse individuals. Practicing empathy can improve relationships, teamwork, and support within your community or workplace. Flexible approaches and emotional awareness help everyone thrive.
8. Social Interaction
Some neurodiverse people have strong verbal communication skills and enjoy connecting with others. Encouraging inclusive social interactions, such as virtual or small group activities, helps maintain collaboration and a sense of community.
9. Logical Thinking
Certain neurodiverse individuals excel at logical, systematic thinking. This can support decision-making by providing objective, evidence-based insights and reducing bias.
10. Honesty
Honesty is often a key trait among neurodiverse individuals. Encouraging openness and transparent communication fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and ensures clear expectations in work or team settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is neurodiversity and what are the common strengths of neurodiverse thinking?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variety in how people’s brains think, learn, and process sensory information. It includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other learning or cognitive differences.
The strengths of neurodiverse thinking often include enhanced creativity, strong pattern recognition, innovation, resilience under pressure, hyperfocus on areas of interest, and a different approach to solving complex problems. These talents can offer competitive advantage for businesses, help teams adapt more flexibly to change, and foster inclusive, dynamic work environments.
2. How can organisations support neurodiverse individuals so they can thrive and contribute their unique thinking?
Organisations can support neurodiverse individuals by creating inclusive work cultures and putting in place practical accommodations. Key practices include:
Offering flexible routines and structured environments that respect people's need for routine.
Using clear, direct communication; providing written instructions or visual tools where helpful.
Letting people work in surroundings suited to their sensory preferences (quiet space, noise control).
Recognising and valuing strengths such as innovation, problem solving, and empathy.
Providing regular feedback and opportunities for growth, so neurodiverse employees feel engaged with the organisation’s aims.
These steps can help unlock innovation, improve productivity, and build resilience throughout teams.
3. What challenges do neurodiverse individuals face, and how can they be managed?
Neurodiverse individuals commonly face challenges such as sensory overload, difficulties with unstructured communication, lack of support or understanding from others, and environments that are optimised for neurotypical ways of thinking.
To manage these challenges:
Build awareness across the organisation so people understand different neurotypes.
Use accommodations, for example: allowing breaks, flexible working arrangements, or adjusting deadlines.
Provide tools or methods for self-regulation (journaling, mindfulness, routine).
Encourage collaboration and inclusive practices such as 360 reviews so that multiple perspectives are gathered.
By doing so, companies and individuals can reduce misunderstanding, improve wellbeing, and leverage the full potential of neurodiverse thinking.
Check out other Blogs in our series:
The content of our blogs are intended for general information and not to replace legal or other professional advice.
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