Spotlight on the Strengths of Neurodiversity

22 Oct Spotlight on the Strengths of Neurodiversity

Some of our brains work in ways that seem fairly similar to other people’s, but some of us have brains that work in exceptional ways. Neurodivergence or “neurospicy” are terms used to describe that difference. Some examples of neurodivergence are autism, ADHD, giftedness, and learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia. Conditions and labels can have a negative stigma, but thankfully more and more people are seeing that neurodiversity is associated with many strengths. Here are some examples:

ADHD

People with Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder can struggle with maintaining attention to something, organising themselves and/or resisting the impulse to move, talk, or act. People with ADHD are also often:

• Creative
• Passionate and able to hyperfocus on their interests
• Energetic
• Adaptable
• Inspiring
• Sensitive

ADHD is not a barrier to success. Did you know the following people are said to have ADHD?

• Bill Gates (Entrepreneur)
• Simone Biles (Olympic Gymnast)
• Greta Gerwig (Director)
• Jamie Oliver (Chef)
• Michael Phelps (Olympic Swimmer)
• Mia Freedman (Editor and Podcast Host)

Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder is associated with difficulties with social interaction and repeated behaviours, but autistic people are also often celebrated for their:

• Attention to detail
• Passion and knowledge on topics of interest
• Logic
• Different perspectives and humour
• Reliability
• Visual spatial skills
• Honesty
• Exceptional memory
• Sensitive nature

Some examples of famous people who identify as autistic or on the autism spectrum are:

• Greta Thunberg (Environmental Activist)
• Elon Musk (Entrepreneur)
• Anthony Hopkins (Actor)
• Jerry Seinfeld (Comedian)
• Em Ruscianco (Writer and Podcast Host)
• Eminem (Rapper and Songwriter)
• Josh Thomas (Comedian)
• Hannah Gadsby (Comedian)
• Dr. Temple Grandin (Academic)
• Daryl Hannah (Actor)

Learning difficulties

While defined by a person’s difficulty with reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), numerical skills (dyscalculia) or motor coordination (dyspraxia). People with learning disorders may have well honed skills that compensate for their difficulties, for example, strong oral communication. Like all of us, they will have unique talents and the capability to succeed. They can also be more resilient and empathetic than people who have not experienced that adversity. Many celebrities are reported to have learning difficulties (Richard Branson, Steven Spielberg, Cher, and Agatha Christie are just a few).

Twice exceptionalism

People with a diagnosed developmental disorder or learning difficulty may also be intellectually gifted. These individuals are known as twice exceptional. People such as Bill Gates, Albert Einstein and Leonardo da Vinci are often suspected of being twice exceptional.

We all have strengths and difficulties, but for better or worse, some difficulties have a label associated with them. Hopefully, this article has given you insight into the many strengths associated with neurodivergence. Maybe you can think of others?