Challenges with executive function are a common barrier for neurodivergent individuals. This isn’t because there’s anything inherently wrong with the way we function. It’s because the systems we work within weren’t built with inclusivity in mind.
With executive function support in the workplace, neurodivergent people can break down the barriers that keep us from nurturing our talents and offering our valuable contributions to the workplace.
So what is executive function?
Executive function refers to a set of cognitive processes that help individuals plan, organise, prioritise, initiate, and regulate their behaviour to achieve their work objectives and goals.
Some people may struggle with executive function due to a variety of reasons, like ADHD, anxiety, or autism spectrum condition.
Things like timekeeping, multitasking and concentration may not come naturally to people in need of executive function support.
How can executive function support help?
Executive function support helps individuals develop and strengthen their executive function skills.
When people are properly supported with executive function, they have a better foundation for bringing their best selves to work and providing the highest value to their workplace. Their creativity, unique expertise, and leadership skills can shine because they’re not stuck at the starting line.
What does executive function look like?
Different people need different levels and types of executive function support. CBT therapy is known to help foster executive function skills, while hiring an assistant can help relieve pressure immediately by outsourcing challenging tasks to someone else so you can focus on what you’re good at.
We recommend working with a specialised virtual support worker who can help you build your own skills while simultaneously taking some of the immediate pressure off your shoulders.
At Send it to Alex, our team of virtual support workers focus on helping clients develop and strengthen their executive function skills based on their unique circumstances. Here are some of the most common ways we help:
Time management and routine development: Executive function support may involve developing unique strategies and routines for managing time, organising tasks, and such as creating schedules, to-do lists, reminders, or inbox management.
Planning and organisation: We help out clients structure and build robust processes and systems for managing their work schedule, prioritising tasks, keeping records of completed work, and designing processes for filing and planning based on a person’s unique needs and experiences.
Financial organisation and management: Support workers can help clients overcome barriers around financial management by implementing techniques, systems, and step-by-step guidance for navigating financial documents, creating budgets, tracking expenses, and gaining a better understanding of their financial situation.
Task initiation and accountability: Starting tasks and making it to the finish line can be a challenge for people with executive function challenges, so support workers can help by providing guidance, breaking tasks into manageable steps, setting realistic goals, and developing strategies to overcome procrastination.
We work with our clients to identify the barriers they face, and create bespoke individual support plans that help overcome those workplace barriers.
The impact of executive function support results in reduced work-related anxiety, stress, and overwhelm, allowing our clients to focus on what they are good at. This results in increased confidence, productivity, and creativity, giving our clients what they need to meet their work objectives.
We hope that one day that there isn’t just one gold standard for what it means to function at work. But in the meantime, we’re proud to play a part in helping neurodivergent people overcome barriers and thrive at work.
If you think executive function support could help you or someone you know, reach out to us now at hello@sendittoalex.co.uk
