Dear Neurodivergent Entrepreneur

For many late-discovered neurodiverse women (including me), navigating the world of self-employment after this discovery can be both transformative and challenging.

Our past business experiences take on new meaning. There’s an initial wave of relief when we finally understand all of our challenges weren't due to personal failings but rather a consequence of our neurology.

Yet, this relief often comes with other complex emotions like grief and regret.

It's hard not to think about all the effort and time we spent unknowingly masking our true selves in the professional arena and how this has impacted our well-being and self-esteem.

Reflecting on the Past

Reflecting on past business decisions and interactions, we realise how we masked to try to fit neatly into traditional business norms and avoid judgment.

We also might not realise that mainstream business advice probably wouldn't work for us because it assumes a one-size-fits-all approach rooted in neurotypical standards of efficiency, communication, and social interaction.

Strategies emphasising constant networking, multitasking, and high-pressure sales scenarios can overwhelm us and be misaligned with our core values.

Embracing Authenticity in Business

Confusion and identity re-evaluation heavily factor into this journey, especially in a self-employed context. We reassess our business goals and strategies, questioning which aspects genuinely resonate with our authentic selves and which were adopted merely to conform to conventional standards. Sometimes, we're unsure, which can take time and energy to untangle.

This identity shift can foster a period of deep introspection, which can hopefully lead to an alignment of business practices with personal values.

We might experience much fear and anxiety about how unmasking could impact our client relationships or business dynamics, alongside feeling the pressure of that dreaded question: What will people think?

However, this transition presents an opportunity to renegotiate professional boundaries and seek support systems that better reflect our actual needs and strengths. The powerfully calming effect this can have on our nervous systems and lives cannot be overestimated.

We're usually self-employed for a reason—to avoid stifling neurotypical work environments. Let's go deeper and make it truly work for us, to accommodate our own needs, doing work that we love within the boundaries of our choosing.

There are no set rules in entrepreneurship. Now is the time to decide our own and choose what's manageable and what pleases us.

The journey of unmasking is undeniably challenging, but it ultimately leads to a more enriched and fulfilling life and business life.

Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs

As more neurodiverse women step forward in our businesses—unmasking as we go—we pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding entrepreneurial world.

Here are some ideas to help you get started.

Communication and Transparency

1. Embrace Your Communication Style: For example, acknowledge your preferences, and instead of forcing eye contact during video calls, you could say: “I process information better when not directly looking at the screen.” Also, consider turning your screen off or using the good old telephone.

2. Be Transparent About Your Needs: Communicate your needs clearly. “I do my best work in quiet environments.” Or:

   • “I need 5-minute movement breaks every hour.”
   • “I only do face-to-face meetings in the mornings.”
   • “I wear sunglasses inside to avoid bright lights.”
   • “I need interview questions beforehand.”
   • “I can’t meet in busy cafes.”

Sensory Considerations and Stimming

3. Destigmatize Stimming: Don't suppress stimming if it helps you focus. Explain briefly: “I sometimes stim to concentrate.”

4. Share Your Sensory Sensitivities: Suggest alternatives for bright lighting or strong smells. “Would you mind if we dimmed the lights?”

Energy Management and Boundaries

5. Honour Your Energy Levels: Schedule downtime and communicate your availability. “I’m fully booked today but can schedule a call for next week.”

6. Set Boundaries Around Social Interactions: Explore alternatives to overwhelming networking events, like online forums or one-on-one chats.

Perfectionism and Strengths

7. Challenge Perfectionism: Embrace imperfections. “I’m always striving to improve and appreciate your feedback.”

8. Celebrate Your Unique Strengths: Highlight your neurodivergent strengths, such as hyperfocus, detail orientation, or innovative thinking.

Advocacy and Education

9. Accommodations: Accommodate for yourself with flexible hours, noise-cancelling headphones, or assistive technology.

10. Educate Others: Share your experiences to raise awareness through blog posts, social media, or in-person conversations.

Utilizing Visual Aids

11. Using Visual Aids: Use diagrams, charts, or mind maps during client sessions or presentations. This can help visually-oriented thinkers and make complex information more accessible.

Building a successful business as a neurodivergent entrepreneur is about creating a space where you can flourish. Be your own advocate, celebrate your unique perspective, and watch your business (and yourself) thrive. Ask for help if you need to. Your voice matters, and your unique perspective is needed.

Some other posts you'll like:

1. Why Proactive Rest is a Great Strategy for Neurodiverse Women
2. The Gift Of Hyperfocus: It's an Outstanding Business Strength
3. Why We Need To Overcome Shiny Object Syndrome
4. I Wouldn't Be Successful Without Help From Others