Where education and action collide.

Executive Functioning – Why It’s the Secret Sauce You Didn’t Know You Needed (Especially if You’re Neurodivergent)

Let’s Get Real: What Is Executive Functioning, and Why Should You Care?

Okay, so executive functioning might sound like something a CEO does in a corner office with a view, but it’s actually something we all do—yes even when you’re just trying to get through your Monday without losing your mind. It’s like having an internal project manager who helps you plan, organise, and not completely freak out when things don’t go as planned. But here’s the issue: if you’re neurodivergent, that project manager might be on a permanent coffee break.

So, what are we talking about here? Let’s break it down:

Planning and Organization – This is about making a to-do list and actually checking things off instead of just doodling on it.

Time Management – Guessing how long something will take—and not being two hours off.

Emotional Regulation – Keeping your cool when your favourite coffee shop messes up your order…again.

Working Memory – Remembering why you walked into a room before you get there.

Self-Monitoring – Realising halfway through that you’re watching cat videos instead of working.

ADHD and Executive Functioning – When Your Brain Is the Master of Creative Chaos

Meet John. John’s a genius at coming up with innovative software ideas. Seriously, this guy’s brain is like a fireworks show of creativity. But when it comes to actually finishing projects? Well, let’s just say John’s to-do list is more of a “maybe someday” list. That’s because John has ADHD, and his executive functioning skills are a bit…let’s call them “sporadic.”

John’s brain is so busy coming up with the next big idea that he often loses track of the current one. Deadlines? They’re more like suggestions. Time management? Yeah, that’s a foreign concept. So, we worked together to create a system that works with his brain, not against it. We broke his projects into bite-sized tasks and used time-blocking to keep him on track. The result? John started hitting his deadlines and even had time to grab a coffee before his next big idea hit.

Autism and Executive Functioning: When Change Is the Enemy (But You Can Totally Fight Back)

Now, let’s talk about Sarah. Sarah is an accountant with a knack for details. She could find a missing penny in a million-dollar budget, no problem. But when her boss rescheduled the monthly meeting without warning? Cue the internal meltdown. Sarah’s on the autism spectrum, and while she’s amazing with numbers, sudden changes throw her off like nothing else.

For Sarah, executive functioning challenges show up as rigidity. She likes things predictable—because who doesn’t love a good routine? To help her out, we built some buffer time into her schedule. That way, when things change (as they inevitably do), she has time to adjust without feeling like the world’s spinning out of control. We also established some rock-solid routines that give her day structure and make those unexpected curveballs a little less daunting.

Dyslexia and Executive Functioning: Turning Chaos into Coherent Thoughts (Yes, It’s Possible)

Emily’s another client of mine, and she’s got dyslexia. Now, Emily can talk circles around anyone in a meeting—she’s that sharp. But ask her to write up a report, and suddenly it’s like her brain freezes. Organising her thoughts on paper feels like trying to herd cats. They’re all over the place, and none of them want to stay where they belong.

So, what did we do? We found some tools that played to her strengths. We used mind-mapping software that let her organise her thoughts visually before she started writing. We also broke down the writing process into steps—no more staring at a blank page for hours. And guess what? Emily’s reports started coming together with way less stress and way more confidence.

Here’s How You Can Tame the Executive Functioning Beast

Whether you’re dealing with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or just trying to get through the day without losing your keys (again), these strategies might just be your new best friends:

Time-Blocking – Set specific times for tasks and prioritising the importance of breaks—nobody can focus forever, yes this includes you.

Routine Building – Routine can set you free, yes even if you have ADHD. Create a daily routine that feels like a warm blanket on a cold day. Over time, predictability can become your friend.

Visual Aids – Learn to use Mind maps, sticky notes, colour-coded calendars.  Don’t expect to know how without learning first – learn first and practice; whatever helps you see the big picture (and the little details).

Self-Monitoring Tools – Use apps to keep you on track or just to remind you that, yes, you’re probably supposed to be working right now.

Executive Functioning Is the Key to Making Life Work (Even When Your Brain Doesn’t Want To)

Executive functioning is the unsung hero of getting stuff done, especially if you’re neurodivergent. 

There are xx executive functions and affect the different types of neurodiversity.  However, xx are those that people struggle with the most for people with Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia.  

It’s not about trying to change how your brain works; it’s about finding the hacks that make your brain work for you. Whether it’s breaking down tasks, building routines, or just giving yourself a break when you need one, these strategies can make all the difference. In addition, you will see great traction when you add this to giving yourself time, much needed thinking space and adopting a habit of experimentation followed by self-reflection.   

And if you’re ready to dig deeper and really tackle those executive functioning challenges, why not sign up for one of our taster group coaching sessions?