Your Mindset Might Be Impacting Your Workplace Relationships

We all are unique, and so are our brains. It’ll be right to say that we are neuro-diverse as our brains are wired differently. 

If two or more people were in a situation, their thoughts, processes, and handling of the situation would be different. However, when we are together in a working environment, we must work towards a common goal. But, we come with our own diversity and biases. 

One in seven people is neurodivergent

Something normal for someone might not be for you or vice-versa. Their way of thinking could be different from what is generally considered typical. 

Here’s how your neuro-bias without your realizing might be affecting your workplace relationship

• COMMUNICATION BIAS

The most common difference between people is the way they communicate. It could be due to their culture, confidence, or emotions. 

Some people like eye contact, some find it uncomfortable, some have a loud tone, some find their tone rude, some people don’t greet and come straight to the point, and so on.

These biases can lead to assumptions about your colleague’s intentions. However, to counteract this bias be accepting of different communication styles and understand that there’s always more to people than what meets the eye.

• EMOTIONAL BIAS

Despite being a natural human response, showing emotions in the workplace is often considered unprofessional. 

Neurodivergent people may find it difficult to regulate their emotions and mask their symptoms. It can be draining for them and this can result in misunderstanding especially when receiving negative feedback or missed deadlines. 

Creating an empathetic work culture where emotions are acknowledged and respected helps prevent such misunderstandings. 

• FUNCTIONING BIAS

Colleagues often approach the same task differently. For someone, an organizational task might be as simple as a mole but the same task for someone with ADHD might look like a mountain. 

Some people might do thorough research on a topic that some may think needs no research at all. The working styles can lead to misunderstanding if the goal isn’t common. 

It’s important to recognize that people function in different ways. What might look like a piece of cake to you might be a challenge for some. Consider that each person is trying their best and provide your support and even ask for it wherever required.

Neuro-biases are often unconscious. 

Be more aware of your biases, reminding yourself that not everybody thinks or functions like you, and it’s okay. 

Each of us is doing our best.