🏝 Rest Without Guilt

Why Neurodivergent Pros Need Downtime

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In today’s post, we’ll cover:

  • Practical tips for managing rest

  • Insights on neurodivergent workplace challenges

  • Personal stories about burnout prevention

  • Strategies to balance work and health

  • Encouragement to prioritize self-care

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As neurodivergent individuals, we bring unique strengths to the workplace:

  • Creativity

  • Hyperfocus

  • And innovative thinking

But with these strengths often come challenges, like imposter syndrome and the urge to overwork to prove our worth. Can you relate too?

The Struggle with Rest

For many of us, taking time to rest feels like a luxury we can’t afford.

The pressure to keep up, show value, or silence that inner voice of doubt can lead to working long hours, sometimes at the cost of our health.

As someone who’s been there, I’ve pushed through with a “no days off” mentality, only to find it’s a fast track to burnout.

Why Rest Matters

Rest isn’t just a break; it’s essential for our well-being and performance.

Studies show that 15-20% of people are neurodivergent, and many face higher risks of burnout due to sensory overload or intense work demands.

Rest helps us recharge, sharpen our focus, and amplify our unique strengths,

like:

  • Solving complex problems

  • Thinking outside the box

My Journey with Rest

As a neurodivergent father and professional, I’ve learned the hard way that skipping rest isn’t sustainable.

During busy work periods, I can push for a month, but beyond that, I hit a wall. Burnout creeps in, and my performance suffers. Now, I prioritize rest by:

  • Using annual leave for family time or personal recharge days.

  • Leaning on family support to carve out quality time with Mrs AuDHD Exec.

  • Taking sick days when needed, because working while unwell only prolongs recovery.

I used to worry that taking a sick day would make me look incompetent, but I’ve learned that most employers offer paid sick leave for a reason.

It’s your right to use it, check your employee handbook and put your health first.

Practical Tips for Rest

Rest looks different for everyone, but here are some strategies to try:

  • Schedule Downtime: Block out time for rest, whether it’s a quiet evening or a weekend unplugged from work.

  • Communicate Needs: Talk to your employer about flexible hours or mental health days to support your well-being.

  • Find Your Recharge: Solitude, exercise, or time with loved ones—experiment to find what restores you.

  • Set Boundaries: Avoid the temptation to work while sick. Rest now to perform better later.

  • Apply to Physical Health: Just like work, physical training requires recovery days to prevent burnout or injury.

Final Thoughts

Rest isn’t a weakness, it’s a strategy to thrive as a neurodivergent professional.

Let’s break the cycle of overworking and embrace recovery as part of our strength. What’s one way you make time for rest?

Reply to this newsletter or share your tips with our community. I’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this post, or know people who can benefit from it. Please spread the word. They can subscribe at neurodiversediary.io/subscribe

Lastly,

Stay Different,

The AuDHD Exec

Disclaimer: I am not your psychiatrist, coach, doctor. Neurodiverse Diary does not provide medical services or professional counselling and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Everything I publish represents my opinions, experience, not advice.

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