Building resilience against challenges

Ten ways for neurodivergent people to build resilience against challenges at work

Whether it is being slow at learning new things or struggling to get to grips with a new job, there are many challenges that neurodivergent people face throughout life. These sorts of situations can sometimes affect you negatively, creating social anxiety on a range of issues related to neurotypical ways of doing things. These are often a consequence of having an alternative way of thinking to the norm.

Yet typically dyslexic, dyspraxic, autistic and other neurodivergent people generally adapt well over time to neurotypical focused institutions and these challenging situations. This is because gradually, resilience against these challenges is built up – an ongoing process that takes a lot of time and effort. The quicker you are able to build your resilience to a new environment, the quicker you will be able to succeed. Here are a few steps to help you become resilient against the challenges you face.

Ten ways to build resilience

1. Make diverse connections

Meaningful bonds with family, friends and others are crucial. Get active in support groups and attend community events – they can be a great place to start.

Recommendations:
• Online neurodiverse communities
• Great Minds Think Different 2019




2. Avoid seeing the challenges associated with being neurodivergent as unbeatable problems

Change how you interpret and respond to neurodivergent related challenges at work or home. Be positive about the future, and put plans in place to help you get there!

Recommendation: See this playlist of inspirational dyslexic Ted Talks




3. Understand there is a coherent lack of understanding around neurodivergent minds (but know that we can educate others)

Once you accept the unfair circumstances of education and employment towards people with learning differences, you will be able to focus on things that we can changed, how can you educate your team?

Recommendations:
• Dyslexia Online Course
• Dyspraxia Online Course




4. Learn what being neurodivergent means to you

Knowledge is power, read up on your neurodivergence. The more you understand and accept how your brain works, the easier it is to apply it as a competitive advantage.

Recommendation: Learn more about the different neurodivergences here




5. Acknowledge any weaknesses and focus on the strengths

Rather than detaching completely from the challenges of having a neurodivergent mind, acknowledge them and tackle them head-on with strategies and strength based thinking.




6. See the positives of overcoming learning difficulties

Many people who experience learning difficulties have reported a more elevated sense of determination, even when in a vulnerable situation.

Recommendation: See how famous dyslexics have used their dyslexia as an advantage




7. Sustain a positive outlook of yourself

Believe in your ability (even if it is different from societal norms) to solve problems. Remember to trust your instincts.

Recommendation: If you need a hand in communicating the positives of any neurodivergence check out our free online public speaking course




8. Perspective is key – seeing the bigger picture

We all have different ways of doing things, consider your skillset in a broader context, how does a different way of thinking benefits communities and organisations?




9. Use your ‘difference’ as your unique selling point

An optimistic outlook on your abilities enables you to focus on what you can do great instead of what you can’t do as well.




10. … and most importantly, look after yourself

Engage in activities that you enjoy and find de-stressing. As your mind may need to work twice as hard as your peers, it is important to take care of yourself to avoid burn out.

If you are still finding resilience difficult in the workplace, or have any tips you would like to share, feel free to contact us.