Is “Neurodiversity” The New Normal?

In other words, being different now days seems to be the norm. What exactly is normal or neurotypical? According to Mariam-Webster Dictionary, the definition of normal means conforming to a type, standard, or regular pattern: characterized by that which is considered usual, typical, or routine.

But wait, there is more! As I continued to read down the list of definitions, I came across this one. Generally free from physical or mental impairment or dysfunction: exhibiting or marked by healthy or sound functioning.

Okay, Mariam-Webster, I am somewhat confused that you and your word writers think I have some mental impairment or dysfunction that employers would label me as having a disability. 

And then I read the definition of Neurotypical, and guess what? Are you ready? Here it is. Individual differences in brain functioning are regarded as normal variations within the human population. By the way: the first known use of neurodiversity was in 1998. Do you think it is time for some companies to catch up and start employing neurodiverse individuals and make it a part of your Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative? 

Yes, it is time to include individuals who can bring unique experiences and skillsets to your organization. Here are just a few.

• average to remarkably high intelligence
• good verbal skills, rich vocabulary
• ability to think in visual images and identify patterns
• the propensity to think outside the box and generate novel solutions to problems
• ability to absorb and retain large amounts of information, especially about topics of special interest
• detail-oriented
• ability to focus for long periods on areas of interest
• ability to perform repetitive tasks where accuracy, rules, and routine are important
• reliability and punctuality
• honest, loyal, fair, and just
• non-judgmental listening

What company would not want an employee with those skill sets on their team?

I want to add many people with autism have difficulty with executive functioning. For example, when I worked in a corporate environment, my career took me to a director-level position. I struggled with certain skills like planning, staying organized, sequencing information, and self-regulating emotions.

Can you imagine growing up, making it through college, and having success working in various industries without having a clue as to what was going on? Can you imagine having meltdowns at work not being able to control my emotions at times? I can go on with numerous stories about my autistic career path, but I think you get the picture.

Now, as the business owner of two successful businesses, I still struggle with executive functioning in my day-to-day operations, however, the difference is I now have the love and support from my family, my closest friends, and some of my clients that know I am different, however by me being different is normal to them. And that is why I am now living and thriving with Autism!

Therefore, I will conclude by recognizing the following companies, from large to small, for developing successful neurodiversity hiring initiatives that are helping to improve their bottom lines and increase the employment rates of individuals on the Autism Spectrum:

Capital One, DXC Technology, EY, Ford Motor Company, Freddie Mac, JPMorgan Chase, KeyBank, Microsoft, SAP, Ultranauts, Willis Towers Watson

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for including individuals like myself in your workplace!

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