How DayBalancer supports neurodiversity
What is neurodiversity?
“Neurodiversity” is a term used to describe differences in the way people's brains work. The idea is that there's no “correct” way for the brain to work. Instead, there is a wide range of ways that people perceive and respond to the world, and these differences are to be embraced and encouraged.
DayBalancer supports healthy, balanced relationships that celebrate neurodiversity by promoting spaces that value diverse thinking styles and accommodate different ways of working.
Neurodivergence is a term used for individuals whose minds work differently from what society has deemed the standard or “typical” (aka neurotypical vs atypical). We work with leaders who not only accommodate, but celebrate neurodivergence.
The Mini ADHD Coach
How can we accommodate neurodivergence in “typical” environments?
The following strategies both accommodate and celebrate the gifts of those who self-identify as neurodivergent (see mindmap version). When leaders invite neurodiversity to the problem-solving table, they receive creativity, perseverance, resilience, compassion, humor, spontaneity, energy, and unique perspectives.
These strategies support the needs of neurodivergent individuals and are often overseen by leaders:
Combat stigma by understanding neurodiversity and engaging with advocacy groups for guidance and involvement opportunities. Support and celebrate neurodiversity first involves acknowledging and valuing the diverse neurological makeups of individuals, in addition to ‘neurotypical’ individuals.
Learn how to understand and accept different personal neurodivergent profiles and promote individual competencies.
Select work opportunities where leaders support different working, learning, and communication styles.
Learn how to self-regulate sleep, eating, movement, and emotions. Daily consumption (food and outdoors) help nourish the mind, which alters attention and emotions.
Join peer networks who value and celebrate diverse learning, communication, and problem-solving styles.
Encourage self-advocacy when self-identifying as neurodivergent, emphasizing the importance of clear communication about one's learning and communication styles.
Remove barriers in home/school/work environments to help foster positive interactions and patience.
Provide autonomy to encourage and leverage the brilliance of neurodivergent traits.
Incorporate preventative education along with mindfulness coaching to support sleep hygiene and executive functioning. Utilize habit-building strategies, aiding in the breakdown of barriers to achieving goals.
Access wellness resources and mindfulness tools (a.k.a. self-regulation skills) that support healthy eating, sleeping, and emotional well-being.
Use resources or create new support networks that acknowledge how each individual's journey is unique, but not isolated. Peers in workplace settings can learn how to adapt to neurodivergent individuals by embracing diverse ways to reach goals. Find hiring managers and collaborators who embrace diverse ways to reach goals.
Seek professional advice for neurodiverse conditions, with early identification by pediatricians, educators, and families leading to more effective support. Use neurodiversity-affirming therapies and medical treatments when necessary to focus on individuals' strengths, like intense focus or heightened sensory perception.
