Autism Acceptance Month

How important is it that you own who you are when you are in a position of influence?

To me, it's vital. Each one of us is in a position of influence when you think about it. From the choices you makes, the things you do, and the words you use...you are surrounded by other people who either consciously or subconsciously are taking in all of this.

Being a leader is not a defined position or a job, it's in daily existence whether you are aware of this or not.?People see what you do. Maybe it's your kids, your partner, your friends, your colleagues or perhaps someone you don't even know.?

Earlier this month I wrote a post for Autism acceptance as April is the designated awareness month. In it I shared that at the start of this year I was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD (combined type) as well as being a parent to a child with Autism.?

Before posting it I paused, putting it out there to the world was a big deal. I worried about what people would think for a spilt second then dismissed that thought entirely as I realised this is such an exciting and powerful self-awareness as it enables me to cultivate my unique skills and leverage them is a really positive way.

What I stand for and believe in without question, is owning who you are and using your voice in a way that can also enable others to do the same.?What I received from that post was countless private messages saying thank you for sharing my journey.

There are so many others out there experiencing the same who need to know they are not alone.?No doubt you personally have an aspect that by speaking about, you could benefit so many others.

This is a section of the post from social media:?

'Raising the conversation and building awareness is the starting point of appreciation and acceptance of different abilities and creating neuro-belonging in your workplace.

For me, the diagnosis was life affirming and I view it as giving me a deeper understanding of my unique skills and how to best support my child and to empower her to learn to love this about who she is.?

There’s a saying ‘if you know one person with Autism, you know one person with Autism’.We are all different, if you have a family member, friend, colleague or team member with ASD take time to learn about them as an individual, their strengths, barriers, challenges, needs and the best ways to support them.

I am blessed to be surrounded by a partner, friends and family who do all of this and it’s a beautiful thing. ??

For me it’s important to share and also for awareness on types of responses on sharing this diagnosis.

I have had everything from:

‘yeah, everyone has something like that in them’

‘Why did you need a diagnosis?’

‘Surely that can’t be right, you don't 'look' autistic’

Through to: ‘congratulations, that’s really cool. What does this now mean for you?’

I raise response types to open conversation that people with autism (especially girls and women) can go under the radar due to extreme masking and coping mechanisms, the first couple can feel a bit dismissive, even if well intended, while the last response opens with acceptance and then curiosity about what it means to the individual. Note: this is simply my perception of how it feels, others may view differently.

People with autism, just like everyone else, are capable of greatness, there are many that are high performing leaders and innovators. ????Just as bio-diversity is vital to functioning ecosystems of our planet, neurodiversity is vital for unique perspectives, fresh insights and different skill sets. ??

And for consideration in the workplace: The main strengths identified by the National Library of Medicine revealed cognitive advantages such as superior creativity, focus, and memory; increased efficiency and personal qualities such as honesty and dedication; and the ability to offer a unique autism-specific perspective.

Take time to get to know your neurodivergent workforce and how to empower them to thrive.

To wrap up, autism is a superpower when it’s seen with open eyes, accepted and celebrated. ????

'Bringing this through to my main point, typically I speak about work based topics, and this is no different. In fact, it is crucial to build awareness, acceptance and the capacity of those who are neurodivergent in your workforce from your leaders to your teams.

Here's a few points from an article by texthelp.com as food for thought that I found when I was researching and it's worth having a read as it's so well considered:

~Take an individualistic approach to understand each of your teams strengths and challenges and give support where needed.

~Be proactive in connecting with diverse talent in an authentic way that resonates with their values and interests.

~Provide support from day one, acknowledging that individual needs may change over time.

~Foster a workplace culture that serves as a network of care and community, embracing the unique strengths of neurodivergent individuals.

~Embrace inclusive technology to create equitable opportunities for all employees, regardless of their neurodiversity.

~Challenge the status quo by examining the working environment and collaborating with diverse thinkers to inspire positive change.

~Ensure transparency in policies and procedures, while also valuing the stories and experiences of employees to drive tangible action.

~Encourage open discussions about neurodiversity to increase understanding and acceptance in the workplace.

~Empower employees by putting them in control of their own accommodations and support systems.

~Drive real change through transparent leadership, inclusive community initiatives, and a collective responsibility for creating an inclusive culture.

~Don't hesitate to prioritize disability inclusion in diversity and inclusion efforts, recognizing its intersectionality with other aspects of diversity.

For the full article, click here:?https://www.texthelp.com/en-au/resources/blog/11-tips-to-creating-an-inclusive-workplace-that-supports-neurodiversity/

In other news:Thursday 16th May - I am delivering a workshop through the Cairns Chamber of Commerce as part of the 'Right' Series in conjunction with the Regional Jobs Committee.

Book in fast as spots are limited, for full details click https://www.cairnschamber.com.au/events/RJRRS24

If you wish to engage with me in coaching and development for your leaders and teams to enhance engagement, empowerment and effectiveness, simply reply to this email and let's have a conversation.?

Thank you for reading my newsletter, have a sensational day.?

With appreciation

Lesley