Summary
What's your internal "script" that you follow when dealing with troublesome situations? If you have to consciously remember to keep a straight face when confronted with something stressful, you are far from alone. Nicola Knobel spent most of her life masking, frustrated with having to defend her actions and expend significant amounts of energy just to be like everyone else. "But you're so extroverted!" people would say...Because everyone expected her to be that way. Having been diagnosed with autism and ADHD (also known as AuDHD) well into adulthood and parenthood, Nicola opens up on our latest episode about her diagnosis journey, honest masking, and letting her guard down around her coworkers.
Connect with Nicola Knobel
https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/safetea-podcast-with-nicola-and-deborah/id1725407097
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaknobel/
Takeaways
Nicola's journey of discovering her neurodiversity was influenced by her son's diagnosis.
The interplay between autism and ADHD can create both challenges and strengths.
Masking can be exhausting and has significant cognitive and physical costs.
Neurodivergent individuals often have unique leadership qualities that are overlooked.
Creating a 'working with me' document can help communicate needs in the workplace.
Special interests can serve as a reward system for managing stress and motivation.
Overstimulation can lead to significant stress and requires proactive management strategies.
Authenticity in social interactions can reduce the burden of masking.
Understanding one's own neurodiversity can lead to better self-advocacy and workplace adjustments.
The importance of supportive leadership in fostering an inclusive work environment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Personal Journeys
02:45 Understanding Autism and ADHD: A Personal Perspective
05:30 Navigating the Intersection of Neurodiversity and Leadership
08:02 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Workplace Dynamics
10:43 The Cost of Masking: Personal Experiences and Insights
13:26 Strategies for Managing Overstimulation and Stress
16:11 Preparing for New Experiences: Travel and Sensory Challenges
18:46 Finding Balance: Work Hacks and Self-Regulation Techniques
21:38 Conclusion and Resources for Connection