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The Challenge

When disinterest makes you look unbothered… As a neurodivergent, I sometimes come across as nonchalant at work.

If a task doesn’t spark my interest or feels mentally overwhelming, I struggle to dive in.

This can make me seem like I don’t take my work seriously, especially when I rely too heavily on others’ knowledge without verifying it myself.

The result? Embarrassing moments where I’m caught unprepared, looking incompetent when I’m expected to know something.

Saying “This is how it’s always been” or “Someone told me to do it this way” doesn’t cut it.

These excuses leave stones unturned and can damage your reputation.

For neurodivergents, staying engaged in unstimulating tasks is tough, but it’s critical to avoid sloppy work and maintain credibility.

Why This Happens

Neurodivergent brains often prioritize tasks that are mentally stimulating or align with personal interests.

When a topic feels irrelevant or dull, it’s tempting to accept others’ input at face value or as gospel rather than digging deeper.

This can backfire when the information is inaccurate or incomplete, leading to mistakes that reflect poorly on you.

For me, this became painfully clear when I followed a manager’s incorrect guidance without questioning it, only to face scrutiny later.

Those moments sting, but they’re learning opportunities.

Actionable Steps to Stay Engaged and Protect Your Reputation

Inspired by The 48 Laws of Power: “Where reputation is everything” here are practical strategies to navigate disinterest while showcasing your competence:

1) Verify Information Discreetly

Assume claims might be inaccurate and fact-check them.

Ask yourself, “How do I know this is true?” and cross-reference with reliable sources.

Google takes two minutes and can save you from costly errors.

For example, I once questioned a manager’s briefing that didn’t add up.

After researching, I politely shared my findings via email, after many drafts! As I’m neurodivergent and wanted to avoid sounding confrontational or being misunderstood… The result?…

I was praised for catching a flawed process, proving I cared about my work.

2) Leverage Others’ Expertise

If a task isn’t your strength, ask for help.

Reach out to colleagues who are skilled in the area and ask them to walk you through the process.

This shows initiative and builds connections while ensuring accuracy.

3) Stay in the Loop

Regular catch-ups with colleagues keep you updated on changes and prevent surprises.

These check-ins help you stay proactive, even in areas you find unengaging. This is what I find most difficult.

It forces me to come out of my shell, but I find that doing this helps me get additional insight that’s helped me add value to my work.

It helps to be nosey curious.

4) Tap Into Neurodivergent Strengths

Our lateral thinking is a superpower.

Use it to question assumptions, connect dots, and spot oversights others miss. As the saying goes, “Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see.”

Critically assess information to ensure you’re on solid ground.

Final Thoughts

Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean you can’t excel at work, it means you need strategies tailored to how your brain works.

By:

• Verifying information

• Leveraging others

• Staying informed and

• Embracing your unique perspective

You can overcome disinterest and build a reputation for competence.

Next time a task feels dull, try one of these steps.

You’ll be surprised at how small actions can make a big impact.

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.