Empowering Neurodivergent Christians in Business: Your Unique Role
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding the Neurodivergent Identity
Recently, I’ve gained significant insights into the unique strengths of the neurodiverse community, particularly those with ADD, Asperger’s, and Autism. God has been revealing to me the importance of identity for neurodivergent believers. This is especially crucial for those who are called to impactful roles within the business world, including entrepreneurship.
Why is this message resonating with me at this moment? I believe it’s because my calling revolves around empowering purpose-driven entrepreneurs, many of whom are visionaries and pioneers within their fields.
Individuals with ADD often struggle to comprehend why others may not see things from their perspective or why responses seem delayed. Their fast-paced thinking can be at odds with the more methodical processing of neurotypicals.
It's essential to recognize that the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals often stem from their unique strengths, not from deficiencies. The enemy tends to exploit feelings of rejection that arise from being different. The true battle lies within; neurodivergent believers must learn to view themselves through God’s lens. Remember, God often chooses the seemingly foolish to confound the wise, and we embody those 'foolish things.'
Here are some practical tips to help you thrive if you have ADD.
Section 1.1: Finding Your Path
To succeed, envision your projects with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Long-term positions can feel constraining for those with ADD, making freelance or contract work appealing. Such flexibility can alleviate feelings of suffocation.
Consider engaging in side gigs like ride-sharing or meal delivery, where you can control your hours. It’s also beneficial to work in fields that allow you to see the tangible results of your efforts, such as construction or design, which can be both motivating and therapeutic.
Avoid long-term commitments that stifle creativity and joy. Instead, carve out your own unique path to prevent feelings of resentment or stress.
Subsection 1.1.1: Embracing Your Strengths
Individuals with ADD often excel in management roles, where they can delegate tasks that don’t align with their strengths and focus on the broader vision. This variety keeps the ADD mind engaged and stimulated.
It’s crucial to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Celebrate the unique advantages you possess, such as the ability to connect disparate ideas and innovate. As a storyteller, you can create vivid narratives that explore profound themes, just like renowned authors such as Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Your entrepreneurial spirit can shine through in solution-oriented roles—consulting, teaching, coaching—where your insights can help others tackle their challenges. When you merge your innate gifts with divine wisdom, the possibilities are limitless. With God, all things are indeed possible.
Section 1.2: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
You are not the issue; many neurodivergent individuals hold remarkable solutions that others may overlook. The gifts you possess often come from unique perspectives and insights. Sadly, the enemy can distort these gifts into feelings of rejection and failure.
However, setbacks can serve as valuable lessons in resilience. “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all.” Psalms 34:19, NIV.
Throughout history, we’ve seen neurodivergent individuals emerge as unlikely heroes. Take Elon Musk as an example; he’s not only an innovative force but also an advocate for freedom of speech, using his influence to empower others.
Many neurodivergent people are less swayed by societal pressures, allowing them to pursue their visions without the weight of people-pleasing. This trait is invaluable for pioneers, creatives, and leaders in various fields.
I believe God intends to lift the burdens placed upon gifted neurodivergent believers, empowering you to step into your purpose. It’s time to embrace your freedom and pursue your God-given destiny.
I pray for the emergence of unlikely heroes who will accomplish remarkable feats and guide others toward their own promised lands.
In Jesus' Name, I stand unashamed.
Until next time,
-Tanya
Entrepreneurship Coach, Marketplace Mentor & Author of Godly Wisdom for Worldly Influence, www.tanyajking.com
Copyright ©, 2023, Tanya J.King All rights reserved.