Embracing Individual Journeys
By Amee Hardy
I have had the privilege of working with many neurodivergent adolescents and young adults in my career, each of whom has a distinct set of strengths, challenges, and aspirations. One of the most important aspects of supporting neurodivergent individuals is recognizing that there is no single path to success. Every young adult deserves the opportunity to explore, grow, and build a future that aligns with their own dreams and abilities, rather than conforming to traditional expectations.
Neurodivergent young adults, those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and any other neurological differences, thrive best when they receive support tailored to their unique needs. This means moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach and instead adopting strategies that honor their individual learning styles, communication preferences, and personal goals.
Some young adults may need structured environments, while others excel with flexibility. Some may require direct mentorship, while others find independence empowering. Recognizing and validating these differences is key to helping them succeed on their own terms.
One of the most powerful ways we support neurodivergent individuals is by encouraging self-advocacy. Young adults need to feel empowered to express their needs, set boundaries, and make choices that reflect their values and ambitions. Our coaches and families foster this by:
Actively listening to their concerns and aspirations
Helping them develop communication skills that work for them
Providing resources that enable them to navigate challenges independently
Encouraging them to set goals that are meaningful to them, rather than imposed by external pressures
When young adults feel heard and understood, they gain confidence in advocating for themselves in educational, professional, and social settings.
Traditional markers of success—such as a four-year college degree or a specific career trajectory—may not be the right fit for every neurodivergent individual. Instead of pushing a predefined notion of achievement, it is essential to celebrate diverse paths, including:
Alternative education routes, such as vocational training or self-paced learning
Careers that align with personal strengths and interests, rather than conventional expectations
Different living arrangements that accommodate their comfort and independence levels
Personal growth milestones, such as developing social confidence or mastering daily life skills
Success should be measured by an individual's sense of fulfillment and progress, not by comparison to neurotypical peers.
Creating an inclusive and accepting community is crucial for the well-being of neurodivergent young adults. This includes:
Educating others about neurodiversity to reduce stigma and misconceptions
Providing access to mentorship programs and peer support networks
Advocating for supports that accommodate diverse needs in schools, workplaces, and public spaces
Encouraging family and friends to embrace flexibility and patience in their support
A strong, understanding community allows neurodivergent individuals to thrive without feeling pressured to conform.
Every neurodivergent young adult deserves to be supported in a way that acknowledges their individuality and respects their personal journey. By advocating for personalized support, fostering self-advocacy, redefining success, and building inclusive communities, we can help neurodivergent individuals lead fulfilling and self-directed lives. As coaches, family members, and allies, our role is to walk alongside them, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their potential, on their own terms.
