The 5 Mistakes Most Neurodivergent People Make That Prevent Them from Thriving And How To Overcome Them To Harness Their Unique Strengths

Expert Author
James Thatcher Psychologist | Clinical Child & Adolescent Lake Oswego, OR

Dr. James Thatcher is a child and teen psychologist practicing in Lake Oswego, OR. He specializes in evidence-based therapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and families. He has extensive experience working with children and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, autism, ADHD, OCD, family... more

Mistake 1: Masking or Hiding Neurodivergent Traits

Many neurodivergent individuals feel pressured to hide or mask
their traits to fit in, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
Embracing your neurodivergence is crucial for well-being.

Action Steps to Overcome:

  • Educate yourself about your specific neurodivergent traits.
  • Practice self-acceptance and celebrate your uniqueness.
  • Seek supportive communities where you can be yourself
  • without judgment.

Mistake 2: Overloading with Too Many Tasks

Taking on too many tasks can overwhelm neurodivergent
individuals, leading to burnout. Learning to manage your
workload effectively is essential.

Action Steps to Overcome:

  • Prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines.
  • Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
  • Use tools like planners or apps to keep track of tasks and
  • deadlines.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Mental and Physical Health

Ignoring mental and physical health can exacerbate
challenges associated with neurodivergence. Regular self-care
is vital for overall well-being.

Action Steps to Overcome:

  • Schedule regular breaks and downtime to recharge.
  • Incorporate physical activities that you enjoy into your
  • routine.
  • Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to manage
  • stress.

Mistake 4: Avoiding Social Interactions

Social interactions can be daunting for neurodivergent
individuals, leading to isolation. Building social skills and finding
comfortable ways to connect with others is important.

Action Steps to Overcome:

  • Start with small social interactions and gradually increase
  • your comfort level.
  • Join clubs or groups that align with your interests.
  • Practice social scenarios and role-playing with a trusted
  • friend or therapist.

Mistake 5: Focusing on Weaknesses Instead of Strengths

Focusing solely on weaknesses can undermine confidence and
hinder progress. Recognizing and leveraging your strengths
can lead to greater success and fulfillment.

Action Steps to Overcome:

  • Identify and list your strengths and achievements.
  • Set goals that align with your strengths and interests.
  • Seek opportunities that allow you to use and develop your
  • strengths.

By addressing these common mistakes and implementing
these strategies, you can thrive and harness your unique
strengths as a neurodivergent individual. Imagine living a
life where you embrace your neurodivergence, manage
tasks effectively, maintain your health, and build
meaningful connections. You will experience increased
confidence, fulfillment, and success in all areas of your life.