Rebuilding confidence at work for neurodivergent professionals

I've worked with numerous clients with ADHD and neurodivergence. I have heard firsthand all about the toll it can have on confidence, especially in the workplace. I often see in my coaching practice highly capable people who doubt themselves because they struggle with things that seem easy for others. That doubt can lead to hesitation, anxiety, and even career stagnation. People come to me feeling stuck.

I’ve worked with neurodivergent professionals across industries, and while their challenges vary, here's how coaching can help: 

Managing expectations

Firstly, confidence doesn’t just disappear overnight – it erodes over time due to repeated struggles, external misunderstandings, and then internalised criticism. The good news, of course, is that it can be rebuilt. Particularly through coaching, but it does take time. Coaching helps neurodivergent individuals recognise their strengths, navigate challenges, and develop strategies that make work feel more manageable.

Building awareness of the impact of self-shame, judgement and criticism

I often start by helping people externalise their internal struggles. Many neurodivergent professionals I work with describe an ongoing battle with their minds. The classic example? Sitting at a desk, fully aware of what needs to be done but unable to start. The frustration builds: "Why can’t I just do it?" This internal conflict can wear down confidence over time.

Confidence comes from interacting with others

The third thing I work on with people is their relationships with others. Our self-worth is shaped by our environment and by how those around us treat us. Many neurodivergent professionals struggle with communication in ways that impact their careers. For example, there might be patterns of overthinking emails and responses, avoiding networking due to past rejections, struggling with unspoken workplace rules, or feeling misunderstood or excluded. 

Over time, this can lead us to pick up beliefs that we're  “bad at communication” or “not leadership material” when, in reality, they operate differently.

The key thing I ask all clients to remember is that when we work together, we're not trying to “fix” anything. Rather, we're working to understand your mindset, pattern and situation, and then we're looking at what we can evolve or do a bit differently.

As a human, you're not broken; you're uniquely you. Neurodivergence is a different way of thinking that can be an asset when supported properly. That's something we try to teach you to do. 

If any of this resonates, coaching might be worth exploring. The right support can make a huge difference in how you see yourself and navigate your career.