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This week on GoalChatLive, I had a wonderful conversation about neurodiversity – and being neuro distinct – with Elaine Hall of The Miracle Project; Amber Hawley, The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur; and author and speaker John Hinson. Elaine, Amber, and John shared how they identify as neuro divergent, along with the challenges and gifts that come with it.
What is Neurodiversity?
- Elaine: It’s a broad umbrella of all different types of minds.
- Amber: Everyone’s brain is different in how they perceive things; being neuro-diverse means you are not neurotypical. There is unity in diversity.
- John: This world is built by neurotypical for neurotypical; it’s not built for people who process things differently. However, the neuro divergent do have superpowers
Being Supportive
- Amber: Recognize there is no right or wrong; only value judgements.
- John: Empathy is a buzzword; but it’s hard to be empathetic when your brain works differently. Instead, be curious, ask questions, show interest in learning more.
- Elaine: How you show up is empowering to those around you; how you show up will impact any and every relationship. Own your own strengths and challenges.
Neurodiversity #GoalChatLive
Goals
- Elaine: Listen to the person who doesn’t speak, whether they are non-verbal or the quietest person in the room. Also, listen to yourself profoundly, allow yourself to love yourself, and look for that spirit in others.
- John: Educate yourself, familiarize yourself the current state of neurodiversity. Hint: Don’t look at the Wikipedia articles, explore the sources cited at the bottom.
- Added Amber: Set a timer when doing research, so you don’t let time get away from you
- Amber: If there is a “should” goal that is draining your energy, see if you can let it go. If you can’t invite someone to sit with you so you get it done.
Final Thoughts
- Elaine: Profoundly love yourself, especially the part of yourself that’s different.
- John: What’s always been doesn’t always have to be. Challenge your views and opinions about neuro-diverse people. A little learning goes a long way.
- Amber: There’s a difference between over-performing and being over-committed; keep your expectations realistic.
Links
- Learn more about Elaine Hall and The Miracle Project
- Check out Amber Hawley and StillDistracted.com
- Learn more about John Hinson and Spotlight Branding
- Connect with Bobbie Carlton, John Chen, and Phil Mershon on LinkedIn
- Get your ticket for The Engaging Conference
- Watch our #GoalChatLive on Virtual Meetings and Speaking & Accessibility
- Subscribe my new podcast: Taste Buds with Deb
- Learn more about Goals with DEB and Deb’s Goal Strategy for Event Attendees
- Get your copy of my latest book, Your Goal Guide: A Roadmap for Setting, Planning and Achieving Your Goals. Then join the Your Goal Guide Facebook group.
How do you leverage your strengths? Please share in the comments.
Next Week
Next week, we are talking about Team Work with Darlene Hawley, Christy Maxfield, and Wendy Parslow. Join us on Monday, October 16, at 4pm PT, for #GoalChatLive.
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For more inspiration, motivation, and tips, follow @TheDEBMethod on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. And connect on LinkedIn.
