From the ANM archive 路 Mindfulness Monday 路 Original social post: 13 July 12:15
馃 Mindset Monday: When “I Can’t” Is Mistaken for “I Won’t”
For years, many neurodivergent individuals have been labelled as lazy, difficult, unmotivated, or not trying hard enough.
But what if the reality is different?
What if the student who never submits assignments isn’t refusing to participate?
What if the employee who struggles to meet expectations isn’t lacking ambition?
What if the friend who stops responding isn’t being rude?
For many autistic people, especially those who experience PDA (Persistent Drive for Autonomy), everyday demands can trigger intense feelings of overwhelm and loss of control. Even tasks connected to goals they genuinely care about can become incredibly difficult.
The challenge is not a lack of desire.
The challenge is a nervous system under pressure.
This week, as we raise awareness about Autism and PDA, let us remember that behaviour is only the visible part of someone’s experience.
Compassion begins when we look beyond appearances.
At ANM, we believe in creating schools, workplaces, healthcare settings, and communities where neurodivergent people are understood, valued, and supported.
馃挋 Sometimes what looks like avoidance is survival.
馃挋 Sometimes what appears to be a lack of effort is overwhelm.
馃挋 Sometimes “won’t” is actually “can’t.”
Read our founder鈥檚 story via the link: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/african-neurodiversity-movement_this-is-the-first-article-of-the-series-activity-7482384844312739840-tsE-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAGqO1FsB2BJTSQyZTwk4tLOo9GdlXqiTck8
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