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 specific project manager might be on a permanent coffee break.
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.
Although academia disagrees on the exact numbers, it’s widely accepted there are 7, with all overlapping and affecting the different types of neurodiversity differently.
Meet John, (not his real name). 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 brain dump or a “maybe someday” list of everything he’s ever thought about doing. John’s ADHD influences his super fast, creative but scattered way of thinking.
John’s brain is so busy coming up with the next big idea that he often loses track of the current one. Deadlines? The only way for him to get anything done but it was far too stressful. . Time management? He says that used to be 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 smaller deadlines and even enjoy doing it before his next big idea hit.
Now, let’s talk about Sarah, (not her real name). Sarah is an accountant with a knack for details. She could find a missing penny in a million-pound budget without any problem. However, when her client rescheduled the monthly meeting without warning…she said she felt like someone had cut the strings that were holding her in place. Sarah is autistic 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—she loves a good routine. We looked at different options and she chose to implement two new strategies. One involved how she educates her clients to work with her and the other, a way to add in buffers of time for when things change (as they inevitably do), she had the 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.
Emily’s got dyslexia. Now, Emily (not her real name), can talk circles around anyone at work, and especially in a sales meetings. 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 before she forgets them.
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, almost like a formula or set of instructions to follow—no more staring at a blank page for hours. And what happened? Emily became calmer when writing, which then resulted in less stress and way more confidence. With practice this became her new normal.
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 unsung hero of getting stuff done, especially if you’re neurodivergent.
They all affect different types of neurodiversity differently. However, 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 the right amount of 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 a discovery call with a coach? Let’s discover how we can work together.