A person sitting at a desk wearing noise cancelling head phones.

A workplace that works for everyone: a neurodivergent perspective

Imagine a workplace that works for everyone, regardless of how their brain processes information. For neurodivergent professionals, the right environment isn’t just about productivity, it’s about maintaining energy for what matters most: our families, passions and lives beyond work.

According to Savills UK [1], 28% of employees feel their workplace actively hinders their productivity. This isn’t just a workplace issue, it’s a quality-of-life challenge that follows us home.

Understanding what’s non-negotiable in a workplace that works for everyone

Before diving into specific solutions, it’s important to identify what’s essential for productivity. For many neurodivergent professionals, these non-negotiables might include:

  • Periods of uninterrupted focus time
  • Control over sensory input
  • Clear communication channels
  • Regular breaks to prevent overwhelm

The need for these elements isn’t just a preference; it’s backed by research. Savills UK found that while 71% of employees want quiet spaces for focused work, only 30% have access to them [1]. This gap between need and availability doesn’t just impact workplace effectiveness; it reduces the energy we need for meaningful moments with loved ones after work hours.

Creating your ideal space

Whether you work from home or in a shared office, a workplace that works for everyone should be designed to support your needs and enhance productivity. Start by positioning your desk to maximise natural light, which can improve your mood and sharpen your focus. Create an “essentials zone” within arm’s reach, keeping chargers, fidget tools and other frequently used items easily accessible. Use notifications only for important communication or custom filters for urgent messages that can help reduce interruptions. Keep your priorities visible without adding visual clutter, a whiteboard or a digital display can strike the right balance. Finally, incorporate soothing elements like weighted cushions, soft lighting, or noise-cancelling headphones to create a calming atmosphere that minimises distractions.

Transforming shared workplaces into a workplace that works for everyone

A workplace that works for everyone could involve creating quiet areas where people can focus without distractions while offering various seating options, such as standing desks or private nooks, to suit different work styles. Providing a simple list of available adjustments makes it easier for everyone to request what they need. Additionally, rethinking how meetings are run can also make a difference. Offering flexible ways to join, like remote attendance, can ensure everyone can participate in a way that works best for them. Finally, thoughtful design touches, such as soft colours and adjustable lighting, help create a comfortable and welcoming environment. 

The science of stress and its ripple effects

The impact of poor office design isn’t just confined to working hours, it ripples through our lives. Research from HRD Australia reveals that noise in open-plan offices can trigger a 34% rise in stress levels and a 25% increase in negative mood [2]. This heightened stress doesn’t simply disappear when we leave the office, it follows us home, affecting our patience, presence and ability to engage meaningfully with our families.

However, there’s hope: According to ZipDo, thoughtful design changes can reduce workplace stress by up to 30% [3]. Imagine what this means beyond productivity metrics, 30% more emotional energy for family dinners, weekend activities and quality time with loved ones.

Making it work: Practical Solutions on a Workplace That Works for everyone

Here’s where innovation comes in. Consider applying:

  • Flexible break systems – creating a menu of break options like meditation rooms, walking meetings or quiet spaces
  • Normalise “reset periods” between tasks
  • Allow for flexible scheduling around energy levels and family commitments

Creating a more inviting and comfortable workplace starts with allowing personalisation, even in shared spaces. Encourage employees to take ownership of their work environment by making small adjustments that help them feel more at ease. Introducing flexible “zones” where employees can claim a space for focused work can create a greater sense of control and providing the freedom to adjust lighting, seating, or desk setups, within agreed limits, helps people shape their workspace to suit their needs, leading to a more pleasant and productive atmosphere.

Rather than striving for perfection, focus on what works best for the team. Solutions need not be flawless; they need to support productivity and well-being. Regular check-ins allow space to review and adjust what works, ensuring changes stay relevant and helpful. Clear guidelines outline what parts of the environment can be changed and what cannot help everyone feel confident in adjusting.

Progressive policies that support everyone

Supporting a diverse workforce starts with offering hybrid work options that accommodate different energy levels, personal preferences and family responsibilities. Providing neurodiversity training helps build understanding and creates better teamwork across all employees. Clear communication such as using written follow-ups ensure that everyone stays informed and included, no matter their working style or location.

Making change sustainable

Remember, creating a workplace that works for everyone isn’t just about professional success but sustainable well-being. When we reduce the cognitive load of managing our work environment, we hold onto precious energy for what truly matters. That might mean having the patience to help with homework after a long day, the energy to pursue personal interests, or simply being more present with our loved ones.

The goal isn’t to create a perfect environment, but to build one that supports your whole life, not just your work lives. With thoughtful design changes potentially reducing workplace stress by 30% [3], we’re not just investing in better workspaces, we’re investing in better lives, stronger relationships and happier families.

Your turn

How has your work environment affected your life beyond the office? Share your experiences; every perspective helps build workplaces that support productivity and the full spectrum of human life and connection.

Footnotes
Savills UK (2023). Workplace productivity and quiet spaces study. [1]
HRD Australia (2023). Impact of open-plan offices on workplace stress and mood. [2]
ZipDo (2023). Workplace design and stress reduction analysis. [3]