03-Finding Our Strengths in Our Challenges
This week we are diving into Personal Developemt
The Rabbit Hole Revisited: A Metaphor for How We Experience the World
The rabbit hole isn’t just a behavior, it’s a metaphor for neurodivergence itself.
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We think deeply and widely.
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We explore corners of knowledge and creativity others never visit.
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And yes, sometimes we forget to come up for air.
This doesn’t mean we’re lost. It means we’re exploring terrain others won’t, and occasionally, that leads to treasure.
But rabbit holes are just one example. What about all the other traits we’ve been told to fix, manage, or hide?
The Real Superpower List: From Flaw to Feature
Let’s reframe the rest:
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Perceived Weakness |
Reframed as a Strength |
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Easily Distracted |
Curiosity Engine, Open to Novel Ideas |
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Hyperfocus & Time Blindness |
Master of Flow, Exceptional Deep Diver |
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Impulsivity |
Fearless Action Taker, Rapid Experimenter |
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Overthinking |
Strategic Analyst, Unmatched Pattern Seeker |
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Difficulty Prioritizing |
Big Picture Thinker, Sees All the Options |
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Struggles with Routine |
Innovation Seeker, Thrives in Change |
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Emotional Sensitivity |
Empathic Leader, High Emotional Intelligence |
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Resists Authority/Rules |
Boundary Breaker, Innovator & Culture Shifter |
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Perfectionism |
Quality Champion, Committed to Excellence |
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Non-Linear Thinker |
Creative Problem Solver, Connects Distant Dots |
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Fidgety/Restless |
Energy Dynamo, High Output When Engaged |
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Procrastination |
Pressure Performer, Last-Minute Genius |
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Interrupts Conversations |
Fast Processor, Quick Thinker and Enthusiastic |
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Task Avoidance |
Efficiency Expert, Knows What Doesn’t Matter |
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Unconventional Communicator |
Authentic Voice, Memorable and Impactful |
Coaching Tool: The “Flip It” Exercise
Next time you catch yourself labeling a behavior as a flaw, pause and ask:
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What’s the hidden function of this behavior?
(Is it helping me avoid burnout? Is it my brain seeking stimulation?) -
In what environments would this trait be an advantage?
(Consider industries, social contexts, or problem-solving scenarios.) -
How can I consciously harness this, rather than suppress it?
(Do I need to adjust my environment, not myself?)
⚠️ But Let’s Be Honest, Not Everything Is a Superpower All the Time
Let’s not fall into toxic positivity. Some behaviors do have real-world consequences. But instead of trying to “fix” them through shame or force, focus on supporting them through systems.
If time blindness makes you late, try visual timers or external accountability.
If impulsivity leads to regrettable decisions, build in a “cool-off” practice before acting.
Supporting the trait is often more effective than trying to change the person.
Final Thought: You Don’t Need to Change Who You Are, Just Change How You Use Who You Are
The world doesn’t move forward because everyone colors inside the lines. It moves because people like you explore the margins, question the rules, and dive headfirst into rabbit holes the rest of us are too scared to enter.
You’re not too much. You’re exactly right.
Now, I’d love to hear from you, what’s one trait you’re ready to reframe starting today? Hit reply and share it with me.
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