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The Big Question for Neurodivergent Workers

As a neurodivergent worker, what do you value more… speed or accuracy of work?

Accuracy can take time, and speed can help us get over the line. Living to see another day.

Where Do You Sit on the Fence?

When it comes to being a neurodivergent worker, it really depends on which fence you fall on.

The details may not be a strength. For example, I’m more of a big picture person and see the forest rather than the trees.

Others prefer to see the trees and fine details. And this can take time.

Finding the effective approach depends on the type of work one does.

Real-World Examples: Finance vs Law

As a finance person, speed and accuracy are BOTH important.

In some cases, being inaccurate can be forgiving, as there are opportunities to do “tidy-ups”.

But this has to be accurate as there’s less room for errors.

For example, my month-end numbers for Jul-26 may not be 100% accurate, but they can be rectified in Aug-26 month-end.

Whereas in the field of law, for example, attention to detail is critical, as you don’t wanna give your clients inaccurate information and ultimately advice.

The Constant Balancing Act

Many neurodivergent workers face this tension every single day. Some days speed wins, so we can keep the momentum going.

Other days, we fight for accuracy because the stakes feel high. The challenge is knowing when to lean into which strength without burning ourselves out.

The Ideal Situation

The ideal situation, if possible, would be to renegotiate the deadline.

Giving oneself sufficient time and headspace to deliver the work as accurately as possible.

The Hidden Benefit of Speed

One thing I’ve benefited from the speed aspect is a faster feedback loop.

The learning curve has been an opportunity to learn from any mistakes. The mistakes caused by less emphasis on accuracy have helped me understand what “good” looks like and keep to those standards.

Helping me ensure I don’t repeat the same mistakes.

Smart Controls When Choosing Speed

In the case of speed, I still do my best to have controls in place.

For example, if working on an Excel spreadsheet, having quick checks in place.

For those who have spelling challenges, having spell checks in place before sending an email can help.

Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Workers

• Play to your natural strengths: If you’re a big-picture person, partner with detail-oriented colleagues when possible.

• Communicate your needs early. Many managers are open to flexible deadlines once they understand the why.

• Celebrate both approaches: Speed gets things moving, accuracy builds trust, and quality.

What About You?

Drop a comment and let me know, are you team Speed, team Accuracy, or trying to master both? I’d love to hear how this plays out in your neurodivergent workplace experience.

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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.