Earlier today, I took part in another “workplace neurodiversity webinar” during which a panelist shared – with a note of what sounded like happy surprise – their finding that neurodiversity awareness makes people better not just at “managing” neurodivergent employees, but at their job overall, and at “being a better human in general”.
Great. But good grief: Neurodivergent people (and the people who love them) could have told you that long ago! I still remember from 40+ years ago which individuals were patient, curious, kind, welcoming, and celebrating of my differences (and those of my neurodivergent loved ones). Yup, it *did* translate into their being more welcoming of all. And it absolutely *did* make them a better human being, at least in my eyes.
So yes, I’m a huge supporter of evidenced-based claims like these. But I also value of the “anecdata” of lived experience.
Alt text: “Be kind” written on colourful background including a sun and flowers.