Today, we're diving into the world of self-accommodations, a vital tool for professionals and leaders to thrive in their personal and professional lives. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, dyslexia, or other challenges, this guide is here to help you create an environment where you can excel.

What are Self-Accommodations?

Self-accommodations are modifications or adjustments made in one's daily life – at home, at work, and during leisure activities – to support specific needs without requiring outside approvals. Unlike formal accommodations, which are provided or approved by others under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), self-accommodations are personalized strategies that an individual adopts to make their environment more conducive to their success and comfort.

The Zones of Self-Accommodations

Self-accommodations can be broadly categorized into three zones: Home, Work, and Play. Each zone plays a crucial role in a professional’s life and requires distinct strategies for effective accommodation.

1. Home

The home environment should be a sanctuary where one can rest and recharge. Key questions to ask include:

• Am I comfortable in this space?

• What changes can make me feel more relaxed and at ease?

Examples of home self-accommodations might include:

• Using grocery delivery services to reduce shopping stress.

• Implementing noise-cancelling headphones for a quieter environment.

• Creating a capsule wardrobe to simplify decision-making.

2. Work

At work, self-accommodations aim to enhance productivity and reduce work-related stress. It's essential to identify areas where challenges might arise and to consider what an ideal work situation looks like. For example:

• Starting the workday early for a calm start.

• Implementing templated email responses for efficient communication.

• Using noise-reducing headphones to minimize sensory overload.

3. Play (Leisure Activities)

Leisure activities should be enjoyable and not drain energy. Accommodations in play might include:

• Capping exercise time to prevent fatigue.

• Opting for audiobooks over physical books for easier comprehension.

• Customizing leisure activities to ensure they are rejuvenating rather than draining.

The Benefits of Self-Accommodations

Self-accommodations offer numerous benefits, both personal and professional. They empower individuals to take control of their environment, thereby enhancing their quality of life and work productivity. According to a survey by the Job Accommodations Network, organizations that support accommodations, report:

• 85% retained a valued employee.

• 53% enhanced employee productivity.

• 48% observed greater employee attendance.

• 46% eliminated costs associated with training new employees.

Additionally, these accommodations improve company morale, enhance safety, and foster better interactions with coworkers and customers.

If that is for formal accommodations, think about what is possible to support self-accommodations!

Embracing Self-Accommodations

To fully embrace self-accommodations, it's crucial to:

1. Start with Self-Reflection: Understand your own needs and how various environments impact your productivity and well-being.

2. Implement and Adjust: Begin with small changes and adjust as you learn what works best for you.

3. Communicate Your Needs: In a work environment, it’s important to communicate your accommodation needs, ensuring they align with organizational goals and culture.

Self-accommodations are a powerful tool for professionals, especially those with ADHD or other neurodivergent conditions. By understanding and implementing accommodations in the zones of home, work, and play, individuals can significantly improve their productivity, comfort, and overall life satisfaction. It's about creating an environment where you can thrive, leveraging your unique strengths and needs.

If you would like to learn more about self-accommodations or book me to speak to your organization, fill out this contact form. I would love to help you create an environment that's made for success!

Reflection Questions:

1. Home: What changes can I make to ensure my home is a comfortable sanctuary?

2. Work: How can I tailor my work environment to support my productivity and well-being?

3. Leisure: Are my leisure activities recharging me or draining me?