Neurotypical” doesn’t mean “Neuronormal”
"Neurotypical” doesn’t mean “Neuronormal”! All brains are different...
I talked previously about the role neurodivergent people can play in diversifying the way your team approaches challenges and opportunities, as well as the importance of recognising the impact your working culture might have on those who don’t think or work in a way that’s considered typical.
But much as neurodiversity, disability and difference absolutely must be an integral consideration when defining processes and practices, it’s equally valuable to remember that all brains are different.
It’s easy to conflate the word “typical” with the concept of “the same” - but to do so is to risk overlooking the broad and colourful range of thinking that lies at the "typical" end of the spectrum. We all know that there's no rigid, homogenised concept of normal, right? So let's not fall into the trap of categorising neurotypical people this way.
There’s no such thing as normal
While certain models of thinking might be similar to one another, difference is hard-baked into the human experience. And we must all recognise and champion that.
We are all products of our unique histories, experiences, talents and interests, and to categorise people into two binary labels - neurotypical / neurodiverse - aside from being reductive, belittling and ill-informed, is to completely overlook the need to accommodate for individuality.
Let’s stop putting people into boxes. Let’s stop seeing them through a narrow professional lens of what they can and can’t be expected to do based on a label or isolated example of their broader skill set.
Boxes are for storage . . . not people!
Real value lies in recognising people as individuals, taking the time to get to know them, and accommodating their needs.
If you need help identifying your teams individual strengths, building cohesive working models, or understanding how both your neurodiverse and neurotypical team members can bring unique values to the table, I’m here to help! My business coaching and consultancy services are built around human-centric values, and I’m passionate about creating bespoke solutions that can support diversity, inclusion, and compassion in the workplace.
Book in for a free thirty-minute kick off conversation, and let’s talk more about how I can support you.