18/03/2025
By Paul Stevenson, Ambassador at Genius Within
In the modern workplace, individuals with neurodivergent minds often bring unique strengths – deep focus, creativity, problem-solving, and out-of-the-box thinking. However, hyper-focus, a common trait in neurodivergence, can sometimes mean we zoom in on the details so much that we lose sight of the bigger picture. Just like standing too close to a painting, we can become fixated on solving one problem, refining one piece of work, or perfecting a single aspect – at the expense of seeing the full context.
The Power of Perspective
Imagine stepping up to a large, intricate painting. The closer you get, the more you see – the brushstrokes, the textures, the subtle shifts in colour. But something gets lost in the process: the whole image. In the workplace, this happens when we become so immersed in a task that we overlook the broader strategy, lose track of time, or forget to take breaks. What feels like productivity can sometimes lead to stress, burnout, or tunnel vision.
Taking a step back doesn’t mean stopping or giving up – it’s a way to regain clarity, reset priorities, and recalibrate efforts. For neurodivergent employees, this can be especially important when navigating high-pressure environments, sensory overload, or perfectionism.
The Workplace Challenge
In today’s work culture, hyper-focus is often encouraged – employers value deep work, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Yet, without balance, this intensity can become a double-edged sword. Tasks can take longer than expected, emails might pile up, and shifting between tasks can feel overwhelming. In a team setting, it can also lead to difficulties in collaboration – others may be seeing the big picture while we are still absorbed in the fine details.
Embracing the Pause
So how do we find balance? The answer lies in embracing the power of the pause. Stepping back allows us to reset and refocus, making it easier to spot solutions, prioritise effectively, and maintain well-being. Here’s how neurodivergent employees – and their employers – can support this shift:
- Schedule intentional breaks: Setting reminders to pause can help avoid burnout and provide a fresh perspective.
- Zoom out before diving in: Before hyper-focusing on one detail, take a moment to check how it fits within the wider goal.
- Create supportive structures: Flexible working, clear deadlines, and task lists can help manage focus without feeling overwhelmed.
- Encourage reflection time: Whether through journaling, check-ins, or coaching, having space to step back and assess progress is key.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Stepping back is not about working less – it’s about working smarter. Just as looking at a painting from a distance reveals its beauty, stepping back in the workplace helps us see the full impact of our efforts. Whether we’re tackling a complex project, advocating for accessibility, or striving for career growth, gaining perspective can be the key to success.
So next time you find yourself nose-to-nose with a workplace challenge, remember the image on the wall. Take a step back, refocus, and trust that clarity will come. The solutions you seek might just be waiting in the bigger picture.
