Running your own business can be an exciting and fulfilling journey, but for neurodivergent individuals like me, it comes with unique challenges and opportunities.
Through my personal experience as a business owner with ADHD and Sensory Processing Challenges, I’ve discovered that thriving in entrepreneurship doesn’t mean subscribing to hustle culture or burning yourself out to “keep up.”
It means creating a business and a life that works with your brain, not against it.
Here are some tips that have helped me run my business in a way that aligns with my values, energy levels, and strengths:
1. Say No to Hustle Culture
Hustle culture might work for some, but for neurodivergent folks, it can quickly lead to burnout. Instead of working endless hours, I’ve found that focusing on quality over quantity has made all the difference. Boundaries are not just important—they’re essential.
Set clear work hours, create space for rest, and don’t be afraid to say “no” to projects that don’t align with your values or capacity. Remember, you’re building a business that works for you, not the other way around.
2. Work with Values-Aligned Clients and Purposeful Projects
Dopamine is a big motivator for neurodivergent brains, so working on projects that truly excite you is key. Collaborate with clients who share your values and invest in purpose-driven work that sparks your passion.
When you’re engaged and connected to what you’re doing, it’s easier to stay motivated, focused, and productive. Plus, working with aligned clients means building authentic relationships that make work feel less like “work.”
3. Design a Schedule That Aligns with Your Energy Levels
Traditional 9-to-5 Monday to Friday schedules don’t work for everyone—especially if you’re neurodivergent. Learning how and when your brain works best can transform your productivity.
For example, I schedule focused work during my “peak brain hours,” usually mornings, and save less intensive tasks for the afternoons when my energy dips. I also build in transition times between meetings or tasks to help avoid overwhelm – which could include a quick walk with the dog around the block.
Flexibility is your friend. Find what works for you, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your routine.
4. Prioritise Movement and Breaks
Movement isn’t just good for your body—it’s great for your mind. Whether it’s a quick walk, stretching, or even dancing in your living room, movement throughout your day can help reset your brain and boost creativity.
And don’t underestimate the power of breaks. Stepping away from your work—even for just 10 minutes—can help you come back with fresh eyes and renewed focus.
5. Take Holidays (Yes, You Deserve Them!)
As a business owner, it can feel impossible to take time off. But rest and recharge are critical for sustainable success.
Plan holidays or even short breaks to reset, recharge, and come back to your business with more energy and perspective.
Trust me—your business will thank you. (I learnt this the hard way recently after a long-needed holiday to Vietnam where I left my laptop at home! I felt so refreshed and recharged returning home).
6. Ask for Help
We can’t do it all, and we don’t have to. Identify tasks that don’t align with your strengths or drain your energy, and find ways to delegate or outsource them.
For example, if admin tasks or bookkeeping aren’t your thing, hire someone who thrives in those areas. If you’re stuck with marketing yourself, consider using an AI tool like Chat GPT to flesh out some ideas and to design a plan.
Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a smart way to focus your energy on what you’re great at and passionate about.
7. Self-Care is Non-Negotiable
Running your own business is hard enough without neglecting your well-being. Build self-care into your routine.
For me, this means practicing mindfulness, keeping a “self-soothe kit” on hand, and maintaining boundaries that protect my mental health.
When you take care of yourself, you show up as your best self—not just for your business, but for your clients and loved ones too.
Your Business, Your Way
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to running a business—especially as a neurodivergent entrepreneur.
What matters most is creating a system that works for you and aligns with your values, energy, and goals.
If you’re a neurodivergent business owner, I’d love to hear your tips for thriving in entrepreneurship. What’s one thing you’ve done to build a business that works for your brain?
Want Support in Building a Business That Works for You?
If you’re a neurodivergent entrepreneur or professional looking for personalized guidance, I offer one-on-one mentoring designed to help you navigate the challenges, embrace your strengths, and create a business or career that aligns with who you are.
Together, we can work on strategies tailored to your unique brain, develop systems that support your success, and find ways to balance your work and well-being.
Learn more about my mentoring services here or reach out for a chat—I’d love to help you thrive!
