Adaptations that work for autism

Adaptations that work for autism

Recently, I have been sharing a lot of information about autism, work, pitfalls and qualities. One very important topic related to it I want to share with you today : adaptations that work with autism, especially in the workplace.

It’s often in small things

Many people with (suspected) autism who work, run into things in their work. This may or may not have to do with their autism. In my practice as an autism coach, I notice that it is often in small things. If you can adapt those little things, do them slightly differently, you can often achieve a lot.

Below, I list a number of things point by point that you can take a look at when you encounter issues at work. Look at it, how does this work for you and try to apply the tip.

What to try out:

• Look at your workplace, what works for you in this place and what doesn’t? How can you change things in this so that your workplace suits you. Think about distracting noises, people walking past your desk all the time, blinking lights.
• Does your company communicate in a way that suits you? If not, which way is comfortable for you? Can you indicate that somewhere, so they can allow the two or more ways to coexist? For example, think via mail with words, drawings and/or graphs attached and spoken explanations.
• Do you get enough information before meetings about the topic to be discussed, or do you only get it during the meeting and cannot make an appropriate decision at that time? Ask for the necessary information in advance, for example, so that you can prepare properly and make a decision at the time it is expected of you.
• Do you have the opportunity to take a short rest when needed or do you not get the chance to do so. The result is over-stimulation. Discuss how things work for you and what you need from your manager.
• Do you take a break together and does that work for you? Or would you rather just take a walk outside? Can you confide in someone about this with whom you discuss this? A break is meant to refuel and rest. If you have trouble being in (large) groups, such a break in a group can actually take a lot of energy. Discuss this with a fine colleague and/or your manager. See what is possible.

Which tips will you try? Let me know in a comment.

Need help applying the things mentioned above? Have a conversation with your manager. Or contact me to schedule a free session (see more on that below). I’m happy to think with you and your supervisor.

Free session

If you would like help discussing what you need, please make an appointment for a de-stress session below.

In this de-stress session, we will discuss what you are struggling with and how I can help you. Your de-stress session of about 30 minutes will be held in my practice or through Teams. Feel free to contact me.

Request your session here.

P.S. Employers often have a budget for coaching

By the way, did you know that employers often have a budget for employees that can be used for personal coaching and programmes such as Rest and Balance at Work?

Are you done with the lack of control and overview when changes occur at work? And that often present fatigue and lack of energy? Could you use some help with this? Or can I help you talk to your manager?

Request your session here.