How do I accommodate my autism at a work conference or a work event? Hi, I am Brett, the AudHD Boss. I’m an autistic leader with ADHD, and I have over 10 years of leadership training and experience. Traveling for work is tough for me. Leaving my routines and comforts can throw me off, so I’ve developed strategies to manage work trips, conferences, and events effectively. Here’s how I accommodate myself when I travel for work:
1. Sensory Tools for Travel: One of the first things I do is pack travel-friendly stims. I carry small items like handheld fidgets or pens to keep my hands busy during conversations or overstimulating environments. If I’m wearing a suit jacket, I can discreetly keep a stim tool in my pocket to help regulate sensory input.
2. Planning Downtime: Before a big event, I review the schedule and build in time for breaks. I’ll set alarms to remind myself to step away and decompress. I also scout the venue for quieter areas where I can retreat if needed. This helps me maintain energy and reduce overwhelm.
3. Masking Strategies: I assess each situation to decide how much I need to mask. I don’t take an all-or-nothing approach; instead, I think in percentages – can I unmask 50% less, 20% less? Identifying a trusted colleague to stick with can make social interactions easier and less stressful.
4. Recovery Plans: Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s Autistic Burnout Workbook has been instrumental in helping me develop a masking and recovery plan. I think about how I will prepare the night before, how I’ll manage during the event, and how I will recover afterward. If I know I’ll be masking heavily, I plan quiet time to rest and reset.
5. Maintaining Routines: Where possible, I try to replicate my home routines while traveling. This includes bringing specific snacks, setting aside time for favorite activities, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. I also research nearby stores, restaurants, and other resources to ensure I have what I need.
Implementing these accommodations has made work travel more manageable and less anxiety-inducing for me. For more on accommodating autism and ADHD in work settings, check out Dr. Neff’s Autistic Burnout Workbook and Self-Care for Autistic People. Both resources are packed with strategies for managing sensory overload, masking, and burnout.
******RESOURCES**********
📘Dr. Neff’s “Autistic Burnout Workbook”: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062
📖Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938
🔗Neurodivergent Insights (Dr. Neff’s website): https://neurodivergentinsights.com
👉🏼Discount code for Dr. Neff’s digital tools: AUDHDBOSS
🎥My interview with Dr. Neff: https://youtu.be/DO-vcVOUFDg
Thanks for reading! If you found this post helpful, share it with a friend or colleague. #NeurodivergentWorkplace #AutismAtWork #ADHD #WorkTravel #AudHD