Different Minds, Different Ways of Thinking
Of Course, We’re all Different.
With the exception of biological twins, no two people are genetically the same. Each individual on Earth has a unique genetic code that influences not just our outward appearance—such as height, skin tone, and body composition—but also how our brains process the world. Our nervous system governs the process of thinking and interpreting the world.
The term neurodiversity describes the phenomenon that no two nervous systems are exactly alike. This applies to the way we think, learn, create, and engage with others. The way one person processes information can be completely different from someone else—with neither approach being wrong.
Understanding neurodiversity is critical because it allows us to embrace a broader perspective of human potential, creating space for more inclusive workplaces, schools, and communities. By gaining insight into these differences, we can improve communication, foster innovation, and create environments where everyone can thrive. In order to understand neurodiversity, it helps if we first understand the nervous system as a whole.
The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. It communicates with the other 10 organ systems, allowing them to communicate with each other. Quite literally, it plays a role in everything you do. It even controls all the things you do that you aren’t readily aware of—like digest your food and blink your eyes. It helps you move, think, and feel.
Diversity in thinking and processing can be seen in everyday tasks, from following a recipe to approaching complex projects at work. Take a recipe, for example. One person might read the whole recipe first and make sure they understand each step before diving in. Another person might dive in and figure it out as they go.
Let’s take a closer look at another example:
Coworker A approaches a task analytically. They start by researching industry trends, analyzing competitors' logos, and creating sketches based on what has worked for others. They value structure and logical planning in their creative process.
Coworker B approaches the task intuitively. They immediately brainstorm wild, abstract ideas and start sketching whatever comes to mind, letting their creativity flow without concern for existing trends or rules. Recognizing that one person prefers to brainstorm creativity while another person prefers to start with research can lead to better problem-solving, innovation, and workplace productivity.
Embrace New Thoughts
Neurodiversity is critical to success, and understanding the differences of the people around you creates better communication, more empathy and support, and better experiences overall. In order to better understand our differences, we must examine our own thinking.
For the next week, consider these questions in your daily interactions. For even more reflection, consider answering these questions in your journal.
What would it look like if I lived and operated with the understanding that everyone is different from me?
What if I asked more questions like “What do you think?” or “How does that work for you?”
What if I created more space to learn and understand how other people operate?
What judgments do you frequently have about how someone else thinks or acts?
What actions can I take today to learn more about someone else?
What actions can I take tomorrow to practice paying attention to my own way of thinking about other's ways of being?
So, the next time you engage with a stranger at the grocery store, share a bus with someone, or communicate with a colleague, ask yourself, what can I learn from their unique perspective? How is their approach to __________ different from mine?
Perhaps you might even ask the question “Why?” The answer just might have something to do with neurodiversity!
