Embracing the “In-Between” as a Neurodivergent Professional
Balancing Strengths and Struggles: The Neurodivergent Experience
As an autistic and ADHD professional, I’ve spent much of my life in the "space in-between". It’s that unique place where many neurodivergent individuals find themselves—navigating our strengths, challenges, and a world not always designed for us.
This time of year feels like its own in-between—a chance to pause, reflect, and set intentions for the year ahead. For neurodivergent professionals, it’s often about balancing where we thrive and where we struggle.
The “in-between” is not a failure or limitation—it’s where clarity and growth happen. It’s where we uncover strengths and learn to navigate a world that doesn’t always meet us halfway.
Here’s how the “in-between” shows up for me (and perhaps for you too):
Between connection and misunderstanding: Building relationships while balancing authenticity with being understood.
Between brilliance and burnout: Pursuing passion projects, only to hit a wall after giving too much without rest.
Between masking and authenticity: Adapting to neurotypical norms while striving to show up as my true self.
Between stability and growth: Craving predictability yet feeling driven to embrace new challenges.
Between autism and ADHD: Living as an AuDHD individual, balancing structure and spontaneity, hyperfixation and paralysis.
It’s also about finding the space between stimulus and response. As Viktor Frankl says, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
For neurodivergent individuals, accessing this space can be tough—amid sensory overload, intense emotions, executive dysfunction, or rejection sensitivity. Yet, within this space lies the potential for balance, clarity, and intentional action.
This transitional moment, as 2024 ends and 2025 begins, is an opportunity to reflect and ask ourselves:
How can I harness the pause to amplify my strengths in 2025?
What boundaries will protect my energy and help me navigate the challenges ahead?
What support or clarity do I need to feel empowered, connected, and understood?
How can I move forward intentionally and step into the new year as my authentic self?
As a coach working with neurodivergent professionals, I meet clients in their “in-between” moments. Together, we transform those spaces into opportunities—whether it’s setting boundaries, building authentic leadership, or managing energy cycles sustainably.
Coaching can help you move forward with confidence, clarity, and purpose. The in-between isn’t where things have to stay stuck—it’s where transformation begins.
If you’re ready to use this “in-between” as a springboard for 2025, let’s connect: https://lnkd.in/eVmyfcHC