Supporting Neurodivergent Employees in the workplace
Tina Squire • 5 May 2026

Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Culture


Creating an inclusive culture where neurodivergent employees can thrive goes beyond offering accommodations or meeting legal obligations. It requires a proactive effort to educate, engage, and empower all employees to value and support neurodiversity. When everyone is on board, it leads to a more dynamic and creative workplace, where diverse thinking styles are seen as assets and open communication about needs is encouraged.


1. Promote Neurodiversity Awareness Among All Employees

Raising awareness about neurodiversity is essential to fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and respect. Neurodivergent employees often experience challenges related to communication, sensory processing, or executive functioning that may not be visible to others. Educating the workforce about these differences helps to break down misconceptions and reduces the stigma surrounding neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.

  • Host neurodiversity training sessions: Organisations can hold workshops or training sessions that explain the concept of neurodiversity, share examples of common neurodivergent experiences, and highlight the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the workplace. These sessions can include real-life case studies, testimonials from neurodivergent employees, and actionable tips on how colleagues can provide support​​.
  • Encourage empathy and allyship: Promote an environment where neurotypical employees are encouraged to become allies to their neurodivergent colleagues. This could include being more patient with alternative communication styles or making an effort to adjust their own behaviours to create a more accommodating space. When neurodiversity is recognised and respected, it becomes part of the company’s identity​.
  • Normalise the conversation: Encouraging ongoing discussions about neurodiversity as part of broader diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives helps to embed it within the company's culture. This approach reduces the feeling of "otherness" and promotes acceptance, making the workplace more inclusive for everyone​​.


2. Celebrate Diverse Thinking Styles and Approaches

One of the most significant advantages of neurodiverse workplaces is the diversity of thought they bring. People with different neurological conditions often approach problems, creativity, and strategy from unique angles, which can lead to innovation and better solutions. Celebrating these diverse approaches sends a clear message that every employee’s contributions are valued, regardless of how they think or work.

  • Highlight neurodivergent contributions: Recognise and celebrate the contributions of neurodivergent employees in a way that focuses on their strengths. For example, employees with ADHD may excel in creative thinking or high-pressure problem-solving, while those on the autism spectrum might offer strong attention to detail or innovative analytical skills​​. Public recognition or case studies that highlight these contributions can inspire others and challenge stereotypes.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration: Neurodivergent employees may work differently or have alternative approaches to problem-solving, but this diversity can benefit the entire team. Encouraging collaboration between neurotypical and neurodivergent employees allows for a cross-pollination of ideas, leading to better decision-making and creativity​​.
  • Create flexibility in how work is done: Encourage flexibility in how tasks and projects are approached. Instead of enforcing rigid methods, allow employees to work in ways that align with their strengths. This might mean allowing more visual thinkers to use mind maps or encouraging employees who struggle with time management to break down projects into smaller, manageable chunks​​.


3. Encourage Open Communication About Accommodations and Support

A culture of open communication ensures that neurodivergent employees feel comfortable discussing their needs and accessing the support required to succeed. Normalising these conversations not only reduces the stigma around asking for accommodations but also encourages all employees to reflect on how their working environment can better support them.

  • Make accommodations part of the normal conversation: Instead of treating accommodations as exceptions, integrate them into everyday conversations about workplace productivity. Managers and HR should regularly ask employees (both neurotypical and neurodivergent) if they need adjustments to help them perform at their best. This destigmatises the idea of asking for help and makes accommodations feel like an ordinary part of workplace life​​.
  • Encourage employees to self-advocate: It’s important to empower neurodivergent employees to advocate for themselves. They may need time to discover their best working conditions, but fostering an environment where they feel safe to ask for changes when needed is crucial. Managers should explicitly tell employees that asking for adjustments or accommodations is not seen as a weakness, but rather as part of improving their productivity and well-being​.
  • Provide multiple channels for communication: Not all neurodivergent employees will feel comfortable discussing their needs verbally. Providing alternative channels for communication, such as email or anonymous feedback forms, ensures that everyone has a way to voice their concerns or request support in a way that suits them​.


4. Ongoing Education and Cultural Development

Fostering an inclusive workplace culture isn't a one-off event but an ongoing process. As societal understanding of neurodiversity continues to evolve, so too should the workplace's approach. Employers must remain committed to continuous learning, ensuring that they are up to date with best practices in accommodating neurodivergent employees.

  • Continuously update neurodiversity education: As knowledge about neurodiversity grows, it’s important to keep educating the workforce. Offering refresher courses and updating policies as new information becomes available ensures that the organisation remains inclusive and progressive​.
  • Solicit feedback from neurodivergent employees: To truly create a neuroinclusive culture, it’s essential to listen to the voices of neurodivergent employees themselves. Regularly seek their feedback on company policies, team dynamics, and what could be improved to support their needs. This ensures that the workplace continues to evolve in a way that genuinely reflects their experiences​​.

By embedding these principles into the core of your company culture, you not only create a more inclusive environment for neurodivergent employees but also foster a workplace where everyone’s unique strengths are celebrated, leading to greater innovation, collaboration, and productivity.


Understanding and Supporting Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive processes that help individuals manage tasks, organise thoughts, regulate emotions, and plan for the future. For neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD, autism, or dyslexia, executive functioning challenges can affect their ability to manage tasks and stay organised. However, with the right support, tools, and understanding, these challenges can be managed, allowing individuals to thrive in the workplace.


1. Recognise Signs of Executive Functioning Challenges in the Workplace

Executive functioning difficulties can manifest in various ways, often depending on the individual’s specific neurodivergent condition. Recognising these signs early can help managers offer timely support to prevent frustration or overwhelm. Signs might include:

  • Difficulty starting tasks (task initiation): Employees might procrastinate or struggle to begin tasks, even when they are motivated and know what to do. This can be due to challenges with breaking down tasks into manageable steps.
  • Trouble with time management: Individuals may underestimate how long a task will take, miss deadlines, or struggle to prioritise tasks effectively. This is common among employees with ADHD or autism, where processing time and task switching can be particularly challenging​.
  • Issues with organisation: Employees may have difficulty organising their workspace, managing files, or keeping track of assignments. This might look like disorganised emails, forgotten deadlines, or cluttered desks, which can hinder productivity​​.
  • Challenges with task completion: Employees might start multiple tasks but struggle to finish them, or they may jump from task to task without completing them in order. This is often linked to difficulties with sustained attention or managing complex projects​.
  • Problems with working memory: Working memory challenges can lead to forgetfulness, difficulty following multi-step instructions, or trouble retaining important information over short periods​.

By understanding these signs, managers can identify when an employee may be struggling with executive functioning and provide appropriate support.


2. Provide Support for Task Initiation, Organisation, Time Management, and Other Executive Functions

Once signs of executive functioning difficulties are recognised, it’s important to provide structured support that helps neurodivergent employees manage their workload effectively. This support can take many forms, from specific strategies to adjustments in how tasks are assigned.

  • Task initiation support: Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can make starting a project less daunting. Providing clear, step-by-step instructions helps employees see the path forward and can alleviate the overwhelm of not knowing where to begin. Additionally, managers can encourage the use of techniques like the Pomodoro method, where employees work for short bursts of time followed by breaks, making task initiation feel more achievable​​.
  • Time management and prioritisation: Many neurodivergent employees benefit from time-blocking techniques or digital calendars that help them visually map out their day. Managers can offer guidance on prioritising tasks by deadlines or importance, using tools like to-do lists, project management software, or reminders. Regular check-ins can also be helpful to ensure that employees are on track with their workload and deadlines​.
  • Organisation strategies: Supporting employees with organisation may include helping them declutter their workspace or setting up digital folders and file structures. Offering training on task management apps like Trello or Asana can also help employees keep track of projects, deadlines, and communications. The goal is to create an organised system that works for the employee’s unique cognitive style​​.
  • Task completion: Regular feedback and check-ins can help employees stay on track with completing tasks. Encouraging employees to break larger projects into smaller, achievable milestones can keep them focused and provide a sense of accomplishment along the way​.
  • Working memory aids: For employees struggling with working memory, providing written instructions, using visual aids, or offering regular summaries of key points can help. Additionally, allowing the use of recording devices or note-taking tools during meetings can support memory retention and reduce anxiety around forgetting details​.

3. Offer Tools and Strategies to Help Employees Manage Their Executive Functioning Skills

Technology and structured strategies can play a key role in helping neurodivergent employees manage executive functioning challenges. Offering a range of tools that cater to their needs will empower them to handle tasks more efficiently.

  • Task management software: Platforms like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com can help employees visually organise their projects, track deadlines, and break tasks into manageable steps. These tools offer a visual and structured way to prioritise and monitor progress, which can be especially useful for individuals with ADHD or executive function difficulties​.
  • Time management tools: Time management can be supported by apps that encourage focus and time-blocking, such as the Pomodoro technique (e.g., Focus Booster, Forest) or productivity timers (Toggl). These tools can help employees stay focused for set periods, take regular breaks, and keep track of how long tasks are taking​.
  • Visual organisers: Tools like mind maps (MindMeister) or digital sticky notes (Microsoft OneNote) can help employees organise their thoughts, plan projects, and visualise ideas. Visual organisers allow neurodivergent employees to map out complex information in a way that makes sense to them, which can improve organisation and task initiation​.
  • Reminders and alerts: Setting up digital reminders, alarms, or calendar alerts can help with time management and ensure that important deadlines or tasks aren’t overlooked. Encouraging the use of reminders for daily tasks can also support working memory and focus​​.
  • Encouraging routines and habits: Helping neurodivergent employees establish consistent routines, such as starting their day by organising their to-do list or ending the day by reviewing their progress, can provide a sense of structure. Building routines can support task initiation and ensure that employees stay organised and on track​.


Conclusion

Understanding and supporting executive functioning in neurodivergent employees is essential to creating an inclusive and effective workplace. By recognising the signs of executive functioning challenges, providing tailored support, and offering practical tools and strategies, employers can help neurodivergent employees overcome obstacles and perform at their best. This approach not only enhances individual productivity but also contributes to a more adaptable, supportive, and dynamic work culture where all employees can thrive​​​.






by Tina Squire 7 April 2026
Living with ADHD often brings unique challenges to organising and maintaining a tidy home. Different areas of the home present distinct hurdles, and each person’s preferences and needs will vary. This guide provides strategies for tackling common challenges in specific areas of the home—wardrobes, kitchens, paperwork, and general clutter. Multiple approaches are offered to ensure flexibility, allowing you to find the systems that resonate best for you. 1. Clothes and Wardrobes Clothing management can feel overwhelming due to issues like decision fatigue, lack of designated spaces, or accumulated items. Here are strategies to simplify: Challenges Not knowing where to put items. Feeling overwhelmed by piles of clean laundry. Difficulty letting go of clothes due to sentimental value or "what if" thinking. Strategies Categorise Broadly: Use simple categories such as "Work Clothes," "Comfy Clothes," and "Occasion Wear." This reduces decision-making. Designate Storage: Assign drawers or bins to categories, ensuring each item has a clear home. Opt for open baskets if closing drawers feels like a barrier. Rotational Systems: Store off-season clothes (e.g., summer clothes in winter) in labelled boxes under the bed or in higher wardrobe spaces. Time Box the Task: Dedicate 15-30 minutes to folding and putting away laundry. Use a visible timer to stay on track. Declutter in Stages: Sort clothes into Keep, Donate, Trash, or Maybe piles. Use an "In-Between Box" for items you’re unsure about. Revisit it after 3 months. Quick Win: If putting away everything feels daunting, start with one category, like socks or pyjamas. 2. Kitchens and Shared Spaces Kitchens often become chaotic due to frequent use and shared responsibilities. Organisation can feel daunting, but creating clarity in this high-traffic area is achievable. Challenges Difficulty maintaining order when multiple people use the space. Overwhelming clutter in drawers or on counters. Misplacing commonly used items. Strategies Create Zones: Assign zones for specific purposes (e.g., "Cooking," "Snacks," "Baking Supplies"). Use labelled bins or drawer dividers. Simplify Storage: For high-use items, opt for open shelves or clear containers to make them visible and easy to grab. Daily Reset: Dedicate 5-10 minutes each evening to resetting the kitchen (e.g., clearing counters, wiping surfaces). Use Visual Aids: Attach clear labels or colour-coded stickers for drawers and shelves. One-Step Systems: Opt for systems that require minimal effort, such as hooks for mugs or utensils rather than cupboards. 3. Paperwork and Documents Managing paperwork can be especially challenging for those with ADHD due to issues like out-of-sight-out-of-mind thinking and the emotional weight of important documents. Challenges Losing track of bills, receipts, or forms. Procrastinating on filing or shredding. Feeling overwhelmed by unsorted piles. Strategies Digitise When Possible: Use apps or scanners to store important documents digitally. Assign folders for categories (e.g., "Bills," "Work," "Personal"). Create a Landing Zone: Have a tray or folder near your main workspace for incoming papers. Sort it weekly. Time-Box Sorting: Spend 15-20 minutes weekly reviewing and filing papers. Use Colour Coding: Assign colours to categories like "Urgent," "To File," and "To Shred." Toss or File Rule: If you’re unsure about keeping a document, ask yourself if it can be accessed elsewhere (e.g., online statements). If yes, discard it. Quick Win: Start with one stack or category, like utility bills, and work your way up. 4. General Clutter General clutter often builds up due to undefined systems and difficulty deciding where things belong. Tackling this requires clear strategies and consistent habits. Challenges Difficulty starting due to overwhelm. Items without designated places. Distractibility leading to unfinished tasks. Strategies Create a Home for Everything: Assign specific spaces for frequently used items (e.g., keys, headphones, chargers). Use Catch-All Bins: Place a bin in high-traffic areas to temporarily collect stray items. Empty it daily or weekly. Adopt a "One-Minute Rule": If a task takes less than one minute (e.g., putting a mug in the sink), do it immediately. Declutter in Layers: Start with visible surfaces like counters or tables. Move to hidden spaces like cupboards or drawers once surfaces are clear. Gamify Tasks: Turn tidying into a game by setting challenges like "How many items can I put away in 5 minutes?" External Accountability: Invite a friend or professional organiser to help. Their presence can reduce decision fatigue and keep you focused. 5. Overcoming Barriers While each strategy offers potential solutions, it’s essential to address barriers that may arise: Lack of Motivation: Break tasks into tiny steps and celebrate each accomplishment. Emotional Attachment: Allow yourself to keep sentimental items, but contain them in a designated box. Decision Paralysis: Limit choices by creating clear categories and using tools like timers to encourage quick decisions. Next Steps Choose one area of your home to focus on first. Identify a small, manageable task within that area (e.g., "Sort socks" or "Clear one kitchen counter"). Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and begin. Remember, progress is more important than perfection. Experiment with the strategies provided and adapt them to suit your preferences and needs. By creating systems that work with your ADHD, you can transform your home into a space that supports your wellbeing and reduces stress.
by Tina Squire 2 March 2026
For a long time, neurodiversity at work has been treated primarily as a legal or compliance issue. Something organisations respond to when required, rather than something they actively design for. That framing is short-sighted and defensive. And honestly, it leaves a lot of value on the table. When organisations measure and understand neurodiversity within their workforce, the focus shifts. It stops being about “doing the right thing” and starts becoming about working more intelligently, for everyone who works there. Not as a softer approach, but as a more intentional, strategic, and commercially effective one. Neuroinclusion, done properly, is not charity. It is a high-performance strategy. The Business Case Isn’t Theoretical We do not need to rely on goodwill or moral arguments here. The data is already clear. Inclusive organisations consistently outperform their peers. A McKinsey report shows that organisations with strong diversity and inclusion practices are significantly more likely to see above-average profitability than those without them. Innovation and problem-solving: Deloitte research found that neurodivergent teams generate more ideas and, importantly, more commercially viable ones. Different cognitive styles challenge assumptions, spot risks earlier, and connect dots others miss. Accuracy and productivity: JPMorgan Chase’s “Autism at Work” programme demonstrated productivity increases of between 90% and 140% compared to peers, alongside fewer errors. That is not a marginal improvement; that is operational impact. Crisis response and adaptability: Many people with ADHD, for example, are highly practised at thinking quickly, switching focus, and generating options under pressure. The same traits that feel challenging in slow, rigid systems often become assets in moments of uncertainty or change. Different Brains Add Real Value This isn’t about positive thinking or trying to see a silver lining. It’s research and reality. Teams that include neurodivergent thinking perform better, not because everyone thinks the same, but precisely because they don’t. Different cognitive styles bring: Productive disagreement, where people challenge assumptions others don’t even notice, reducing groupthink and overconfidence. Better error detection, because teams with varied thinking styles are more likely to spot blind spots, risks, and flawed logic early. Higher-quality decisions, prioritising robustness over speed and consensus that holds up under pressure. This can look like and feel like friction. And it’s reasonable to ask why an organisation would want more of that. Because what feels uncomfortable is often a sign of a rigid system, one that is inefficient at its core. But I would argue that this friction is what prevents teams from making confident mistakes. An Overlooked Talent Pool, At Scale Around 15–20% of the population is neurodivergent. Yet many organisations are still fishing in the same narrow talent pool and wondering why recruitment feels so hard. To put that in perspective, according to the ONS and Ambitious about Autism , only 29% of autistic people are in paid employment. That is not a skills issue. It is a systems issue. When hiring processes reward being quick, confident, and good in interviews more than being clear, thoughtful, or accurate, capable people can quietly get sidelined. Neuroinclusive hiring is not about lowering the bar. It is about finally seeing talent that has been there all along. Why the Diagnosis-Led Model Is Holding Organisations Back Many workplaces still rely on what I call a "diagnosis gateway" approach. Support only becomes available once someone has navigated a long and emotionally demanding assessment process. This model is slow, expensive, reactive and dependent on a healthcare system that is widely known to be breaking. A more effective approach starts somewhere else. It assumes that people think, work, and process information differently, and it designs work around that reality from the outset. As Dr. Nancy Doyle often highlights, Universal Design reframes adjustments as performance optimisation rather than exception handling. It gives organisations a stronger baseline and avoids the costly pattern of waiting for someone to fail before intervening. Supporting People Without Losing Standards One of the biggest unspoken fears managers have is this: "If we accommodate neurodiversity, do standards slip?" It is important to be clear: Neurodiversity is not a free pass. UK case law, including a tribunal McQueen v General Optical Council , makes this explicit. Neurodivergence does not excuse harmful, aggressive, or inappropriate behaviour. Adjustments exist to help people meet the expectations of the role, not to remove accountability. When managers understand this, adjustments stop feeling like "favours" and start functioning as performance-hardening techniques. A Simpler Way to Think About It Think of your workforce like a mixing desk. Every person has different levels across different channels: focus, energy, communication, creativity, sensitivity, speed. A manager’s job is not to force every slider into the same position. It is to adjust the system so the whole track sounds right. Inclusive design makes sure every instrument can be heard properly. Not louder. Not quieter. Just as it was meant to sound, like a fully fledged, beautiful orchestra.
by Tina Squire 6 January 2026
In today's fast-paced business world, employers are constantly seeking ways to boost productivity and employee satisfaction. However, many organisations overlook a simple yet powerful strategy that can transform team performance and well-being: understanding and accommodating different information processing styles. The Power of Processing Preferences Every individual has a unique way of absorbing and processing information. Some people thrive when reading written materials, while others prefer listening to audio content or watching video presentations. These preferences, often referred to as learning modalities or processing styles, play a crucial role in how efficiently employees can work and how satisfied they feel in their roles. Anne Gould's insightful post on content consumption preferences highlights the importance of recognizing these individual differences. By acknowledging and accommodating various processing styles, employers can unlock hidden potential within their workforce and create a more inclusive, productive environment. Benefits for All, Especially the Neurodiverse While this approach benefits all employees, it can be particularly transformative for neurodiverse individuals. Neurodiversity encompasses a range of cognitive differences, including conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. For these employees, having information presented in their preferred format can be the difference between struggling to keep up and excelling in their roles. By implementing accommodations based on processing preferences, employers can: 1. Increase overall productivity 2. Enhance information retention and comprehension 3. Reduce workplace stress and frustration 4. Boost employee engagement and job satisfaction 5. Foster a more inclusive work environment 6. Tap into the unique strengths of neurodiverse team members Cost-Effective Solutions with High Returns One of the most compelling aspects of this strategy is its cost-effectiveness. Many accommodations can be implemented with minimal expense, especially when compared to the potential gains in productivity and employee retention. Some practical, low-cost accommodations include: 1. Offering multiple formats for important information (written, video, audio) 2. Providing text-to-speech software for auditory learners 3. Implementing closed captioning for video meetings 4. Allowing employees to choose between in-person or written instructions 5. Creating quiet spaces for those who need to focus while reading 6. Encouraging the use of visual aids in presentations 7. Offering noise-cancelling headphones for employees sensitive to auditory distractions 8. Providing digital note-taking tools for those who prefer typing to handwriting Implementing the Strategy To effectively implement this strategy, employers should consider the following steps: 1. Assess current practices: Evaluate how information is typically shared within the organization and identify areas for improvement. 2. Survey employees: Conduct a survey to understand the diverse processing preferences within your team. 3. Develop a flexible approach: Create guidelines for presenting information in multiple formats whenever possible. 4. Invest in necessary tools: Acquire software or equipment needed to support various processing styles. 5. Train managers and team leaders: Educate leadership on the importance of accommodating different processing styles and how to implement these strategies effectively. 6. Encourage open communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their preferences and needs. 7. Monitor and adjust: Regularly gather feedback and assess the impact of these accommodations on productivity and employee satisfaction. Case Studies: Success in Action Several forward-thinking companies have already embraced this approach with impressive results. For example: - A tech startup implemented a policy of providing all important communications in both written and video formats. They reported a 20% increase in information retention and a 15% boost in overall productivity within six months. - A marketing agency created "focus pods" - small, quiet spaces for employees who prefer to read or work without distractions. Employee satisfaction scores increased by 25%, and the company saw a notable improvement in meeting deadlines. - A global manufacturing firm introduced text-to-speech software for their neurodiverse employees, resulting in a 30% reduction in errors and a significant increase in job satisfaction among those team members. The Future of Work: Inclusive and Adaptive As we move towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce, understanding and accommodating different processing styles will become increasingly crucial. This strategy not only enhances productivity but also contributes to a more equitable and supportive work environment. By recognizing the power of information processing preferences, employers can tap into the full potential of their teams, fostering a workplace where every individual can thrive. It's time for leaders to start the conversation: How can we better understand and accommodate the diverse processing styles within our organizations? In conclusion, this simple yet often overlooked accommodation strategy holds the key to unlocking hidden productivity, enhancing employee well-being, and creating a more inclusive workplace. As we continue to evolve our understanding of human cognition and workplace dynamics, embracing diverse processing styles will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of work.
by Tina Squire 16 September 2025
What ADHD Coaching Is, How It Works, and Whether It Might Help You
by Tina Squire 13 August 2025
H ow to decide, and what to consider first. Disclosing ADHD at work is one of the biggest questions I see people grapple with. Not just in coaching sessions, but in late-night Google searches, forum posts, awkward WhatsApp chats with friends: “Should I tell my manager? Will it backfire? Will they even understand?”
by Tina Squire 15 July 2025
It’s probably one of the most common questions I hear, whether it’s from employees trying to figure out what to ask for, or managers nervously Googling how to “do the right thing.” The honest answer? There’s no universal list. No neat handbook that says, “if you have ADHD, you’ll need exactly these things.” Because the truth is, even the most enlightened employers aren’t experts in your brain. If you’ve met a hundred people with ADHD, you’ve met a hundred entirely different brains. However it doesn’t have to be dramatic or expensive. In fact, the best adjustments are often small, human, and tailored to how your brain actually works. That’s why the most important part of this conversation isn’t the list of possible adjustments. It’s understanding what actually works for you. Asking yourself What lights you up at work? When do you feel most settled and focused? What situations leave you scattered, drained, or second-guessing yourself? In my coaching and the resources we’ve created at Adeptina, we always come back to this: adjustments start with self-awareness. Whether it’s noticing you do your best thinking out loud, or that you crumble in noisy spaces, or that written follow-ups keep your working memory from short-circuiting, these are gold dust insights. They’re what allow you to move beyond generic “ADHD tips” and build support that fits you. So if you’re asking, “What are reasonable adjustments for ADHD at work?”, here’s where I’d encourage you to begin: by getting curious about your own patterns, strengths, and needs. Because once you know that, it becomes so much easier to advocate for changes that truly make a difference. How do you figure out what adjustments you actually need? This is often where people get stuck. Even in workplaces that are supportive, many managers will still turn to you and say, “So, what do you need?” It’s a great question, and a hard one. Because if you’ve spent years quietly masking or muddling through, it might not be obvious. So here’s where to start 1. Look for patterns Take a moment to reflect on your typical workday or week. You might ask yourself: What are the moments that consistently trip me up or drain my energy? When do I procrastinate or spin out, even if I care about the work? When have I felt most calm, engaged, or even proud? For example, maybe you notice that long meetings without an agenda make your mind ping off in twenty directions. Or that you always think of your best ideas after you’ve left the meeting room. That’s useful data. It might point to needing agendas in advance, or permission to share follow-up thoughts later. 2. Think about how you process best In our guides, we often encourage people to notice: Are you someone who needs to see it, say it, or move around it? If you’re a visual processor, maybe you need diagrams, mind maps, or a Kanban board to feel organised. If you’re a verbal processor, regular check-ins where you can talk things through might make all the difference. If you thrive on movement, perhaps a walk-and-talk meeting beats a formal sit-down every time. Understanding your brain’s preferred way of taking in and working through information is like unlocking the instruction manual that was missing all along. 3. Dig into what’s helped (or hurt) before Sometimes it’s easier to start by looking backwards. When in the past have you felt most on top of things at work? What was in place then? Was it a clear routine? Was it a manager who sent everything in writing? Was it a role where you could work in intense sprints, then rest? Equally, noticing what hasn’t worked can be just as clarifying. The goal isn’t to pick yourself apart — it’s to gather clues. 4. Keep it practical, not perfect It can be tempting to look for some perfect solution. But most adjustments are simple. They’re tweaks that make it easier to show up as you, not constant workarounds to hide who you are. That might mean: Using noise-cancelling headphones in a busy office Getting project instructions in writing, not just a quick chat Having a short recovery window after intense meetings Or scheduling your most complex work for the time of day when your brain is actually online It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. Because reasonable adjustments aren’t magic. They’re often small, targeted tweaks that make your natural way of working easier. A few examples to get you thinking Sometimes we overcomplicate this. Reasonable adjustments can sound like a formal, intimidating thing. But in reality, they’re often small, thoughtful changes that make your brain’s job easier. Here are a few examples I’ve seen make a genuine difference for people with ADHD at work: Visual project trackers If your brain can’t hold all the moving parts in working memory (honestly, whose can?), having a visual way to see tasks laid out, like a Kanban board, Trello, or even sticky notes on a wall can bring huge relief. It’s about externalising your thoughts so your brain doesn’t have to carry them all at once. Flexible start times Maybe you’re sharper mid-morning, or you crash by 3pm. Being able to start and finish slightly earlier or later can help you match your energy curve, instead of fighting it. Regular “think out loud” sessions If you process ideas by talking them through, it might help to have a standing 15-minute check-in with your manager or a trusted colleague. Just space to verbalise where you’re at can bring clarity and avoid weeks of circling confusion. Written follow-ups If you’re someone who leaves a meeting full of ideas, only to realise later that you can’t remember half of them, ask for a short summary afterwards. Even bullet points can take the pressure off your memory and give you a stable reference point. Permission to step away Open-plan offices can be a sensory gauntlet. Sometimes the adjustment is as simple as having the green light to move to a quieter space or pop on headphones without feeling like you’re being rude. Combining sprints with recovery If you tend to hyperfocus or work in intense bursts, you might also need a conscious buffer afterwards, time to decompress or switch to easier tasks. Building that into your routine can prevent the all-too-common energy hangover. None of these is huge or particularly fancy. But they work because they’re specific to how your brain operates. They take what’s already true about you and make it easier, not harder, to do your job well. A little note on figuring this out I appreciate that spotting these patterns, and making sense of what they mean for you in real life it’s not always something you can do alone. It’s one thing to know you’re tired after certain tasks or that meetings leave your head spinning. But it’s another to really see the thread running through it all. To notice that, oh, this is actually about how you process information, or what energises you, or where your brain’s bandwidth gets eaten up. This is a huge part of what coaching is. There’s a skill (and a kind of deep listening) that we bring. Someone can be telling me a story about a random day at work, or how they handle Monday mornings, or why they hate Slack notifications and under all of that is so much data. About how they think, what their strengths are, where the friction is. It’s often from these ordinary stories that we start to uncover the gold. And that’s what helps turn vague frustrations into actual adjustments you can ask for, that make a difference. So if you’re still wondering “What are reasonable adjustments for ADHD at work?” it really comes down to this: They’re whatever helps you do your best work, with less friction and more ease. They’re whatever bridges the gap between how your brain naturally operates and the demands of your role. And figuring them out, whether that’s on your own, with a trusted friend, or with a coach who knows how to listen between the lines, is one of the most worthwhile things you can do. Whether it’s a small tweak to how meetings run, a bit more visual structure, or simply being able to work when your brain’s switched on, these are all valid. They’re reasonable. And you’re allowed to ask.
by Tina 12 August 2024
In response to my post last week about habit trackers and what they are good for, I’ve received a lot of requests for what I would recommend. I am also often asked this by my coaching clients , and essentially it comes down to what you want to track and what your personal requirements and preferences are. Identify Your Goals and Preferences Knowing a bit about your goals and preferences will help you select a habit tracking system that aligns with your objectives. Use this article to consider what you need. The first step to finding the right habit tracker is to understand what you want to accomplish. DO NOT go down that rabbit hole without setting some parameters for what you are looking for, especially if you are neurodivergent. There are many habit tracking service providers, and they are all good at selling the benefits of their product, so the most important thing is to know if you’re interested in the benefits they’re offering. Consider the habits you want to monitor. These might include: Positive habits: Water intake, journal writing, exercise Habits to reduce: Alcohol consumption, excessive screen time Habit tracking can be helpful if, for example, you suffer from time blindness. I am always surprised by how often my head says I haven’t done journaling ‘for ages’ for example and then I check my habit tracker and find out I only wrote something two days ago. Sometimes combating time blindness is about allowing your brain to acknowledge that you do things. Again super important if you are neurodivergent. Other key questions you might want to ask yourself are: Do you want to improve your fitness, enhance your productivity, or manage your time more effectively? Is simplicity more important to you than gamification? Are you a fan of good old fashioned paper and pen or do you have an iPhone or Android that you would like to use? How important is it for your tracker to sync with your laptop or your tablet? Below are some areas to consider when considering your own personal preferences. Some of them may not apply to you, but some might help you figure out what you want from a habit tracker so that you can get one that does the job. In addition to some suggestions, I’ve included some criteria I use myself.
A woman is sitting on a wooden deck next to a pool.
by Tina 4 July 2024
For individuals with ADHD, the seemingly simple act of receiving compliments can often feel like navigating a complex emotional maze. The ADHD brain, wired for constant stimulation and self-criticism, tends to dismiss positive feedback, especially regarding tasks or abilities that come naturally. Let’s explore the challenges of accepting compliments for those of us with ADHD and consider what practical strategies there are to overcome these hurdles, ultimately leading to improved self-esteem and social interactions. The ADHD Compliment Conundrum: People with ADHD frequently struggle with low self-esteem and negative self-perception. This can stem from years of struggling with executive function, time management, and societal expectations. As a result, when faced with praise, the ADHD brain may automatically discount or reject the compliment, often before the individual has even fully processed it. Strategies for Success: 1. Embrace Verbal Processing: One effective technique for managing the immediate dismissal of compliments is to verbalise your thoughts. By saying your reactions aloud, you create an opportunity to catch and challenge negative self-talk. This process allows you to consciously examine your thoughts and potentially reframe them in a more positive light. 2. Recognise and Celebrate ADHD Strengths: Many individuals with ADHD possess unique talents and abilities that they may overlook because these skills come easily to them. It’s crucial to understand that what feels “effortless” to you might actually be a special talent. Take time to identify and appreciate your ADHD-related strengths, such as creativity, hyperfocus, or out-of-the-box thinking. 3. Practise Acceptance Through Simple Responses: Even if you don’t fully believe or internalise a compliment, responding with a simple “thank you” can be a powerful first step. This practice acknowledges the other person’s kindness and helps rewire your brain to become more receptive to positive feedback over time. 4. Seek Clarification and Specifics: If a compliment feels vague or difficult to process, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask for more details. Requesting specifics about what the person appreciated can help make the compliment feel more concrete and easier to accept. 5. Reframe Your Perspective on Compliments: Remember that accepting a compliment isn’t solely about you – it’s also about allowing the other person to express their appreciation. By shifting your focus to the giver’s intention, you may find it easier to receive praise graciously. 6. Incorporate Positive Affirmations: Regular use of positive affirmations can help build a more robust and positive self-image. Take time each day to remind yourself of your strengths, accomplishments, and unique qualities. This practice can make it easier to accept external compliments as they align with your internal dialogue. Learning to accept compliments with ADHD is a skill that requires patience and practice. As you implement these strategies, be kind to yourself and acknowledge that change takes time. With consistent effort, you can develop a healthier relationship with praise, leading to improved self-esteem and more positive social interactions. Remember, your ADHD brain may initially resist compliments, but with these tools and techniques, you can learn to embrace and benefit from the positive feedback you receive. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and continue to work towards a more confident and self-assured you. You can download our free ebook “Thriving with ADHD at work” and there are also Access To Work resources available .
by Tina 3 February 2024
I know I don’t fit the stereotypical image of someone with ADHD. I got good grades in school, and I have a successful career, but I suppose that’s what makes writing this feels important. I got my diagnosis of ADHD, combined type, in Jan 2021. It was a rocky start to the year but overall, it was an overwhelmingly positive experience. Can you imagine what you’d think if an educated professional turned around and told you, “ This is why you are the way you are.” Wouldn’t you be grateful? I was ready to give it a label, and it made me feel more ok about myself and allowed me to lose some of the shame I didn’t even know that I carried around. I felt good about the label as to me, it explained so much. It is as if someone has found the manual that goes with my brain and reading and understanding about my own ADHD has really helped me understand myself better. While I haven’t told many people, I have told a few, and the most common question I get is, “Do you wish you had known sooner?” When I look back all I can see and appreciate is how I navigated my way through school and work, how and why I made certain decisions at times in my life, and I do so without feeling regret or blaming my parents. If anything, it tells me that my abilities are limitless. I also feel positive because, when I look forward, there’s no need to fix anything. I’ll just find what works for me, and that’s ok. As far as my life has gone, I have done well, but I know I have been hard on myself at times, so if anything, this diagnosis has given me permission to be kinder to myself. Here is where having ADHD and getting a diagnosis differs from not knowing that you have it. I’m simply able to allow myself to be …. Happier . I hope that this opens up more conversations about neurodiversity. I’m certainly open to questions and discussions. What are your thoughts?
by Tina 2 February 2024
Access To Work updated their online application in October 2023. This video pertains to the application process before this change. In this video, I created a step-by-step tutorial guide to help people with ADHD easily apply to the Access to Work grant scheme. This scheme allows individuals to access funding for things like ADHD coaching, assistive technology, and support workers. Applying for this grant can be a daunting process, especially for those with ADHD. However, my tutorial simplifies the process and breaks it down into easy-to-follow steps. By the end of the video, viewers will have a clear understanding of how to apply for the grant and will be one step closer to accessing the support they need to thrive in the workplace. 
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