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Is thinking different such a bad thing? ...Let's look at the evolutionary theory behind neurodiversity. Would the human race even exist today if Neurodiversity wasn't engineered into the population? the answer is - Probably not! Why is that?

How and why do modern teams benefit by actively including neurodiversity? More and more workplaces, such as the Australian Defence Force, are actively seeking out and including neurodiversity? They're offering supportive working environments to unlock their super powers!

Are you unknowingly suppressing the super powers of your neurodiverse colleagues by forcing them to conform to neurotypical expectations? Are you aware of their daily struggles due to workplaces and processes being built for neurotypicals? eg. do you offer pairing opportunities to help with task paralysis? or quiet working spaces? or attention to office lighting? or recorded Zoom meetings, etc? The chances are, if they are female - they might not be aware of their own needs! Did you know that the average age for ADHD diagnosis for anyone born male is single digits, and goes up to 45 for anyone born female?!

Let's encourage more open conversations, and educate ourselves and our peers. Neurodiversity is not a disability - it's a super power from being wired differently. The benefits can be incredible when we become inclusive!

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The video titled "Neurodiversity - Shifting the Paradigm from Silent Disability to Super Power" features Shayla Mann, a software engineer and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry. The talk emphasizes the need to transform the perception of neurodiversity from a silent disability into a recognized superpower by highlighting the inherent strengths of neurodivergent individuals.

**Key Points Discussed:**  
- **Definition of Neurodiversity:** Every individual possesses unique neurological wiring, and neurodiversity encompasses conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more.  
- **Systemic Issues:** Many neurodiverse individuals, particularly women, face delays in diagnosis and misinterpretation of their traits due to societal biases.  
- **Neurodiverse Strengths:** Neurodivergent individuals offer unique perspectives and capabilities, like creativity, pattern recognition, and problem-solving abilities, which are often undervalued in traditional work environments.  
- **Impact on Workplaces:** Many companies, including the Australian Defence Force and tech giants like Microsoft and SAP, actively seek to embrace neurodiversity, recognizing its benefits for innovative thinking and productivity.  
- **Challenges Faced:** Neurodiverse individuals often struggle with issues like task paralysis, sensory overload, and communication difficulties, particularly in conventional work settings.  
- **Personal Anecdote:** Shayla shared her journey with ADHD and how understanding her neurodiversity led to significant personal and professional empowerment.

**Significant Examples:**  
- The talk references high-functioning neurodiverse individuals in tech, presenting historical figures like Beethoven and Einstein as examples of the successes derived from neurodiversity.  
- Shayla’s personal experiences, including her struggles with ADHD and her eventual diagnosis, underline the importance of recognizing neurodiversity as a natural and valuable aspect of human variation.

**Conclusions and Takeaways:**  
- The necessity for inclusive workplaces that accommodate neurodiverse individuals is crucial for maximizing their unique skills.  
- Open conversations regarding neurodiversity can lead to greater understanding and support, ultimately enhancing workplace culture and productivity.  
- Celebrating diverse perspectives can drive innovation, improving employee satisfaction and contributing to overall organizational success.

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