Neurodiversity

Think That 2 A.M. Email Means Workaholism? Think Again

A dimly lit home office at 2AM, illuminated by a glowing computer screen displaying an email inbox with multiple unread messages. Coffee cups, papers, and an open notebook sit on the desk, evoking a sense of late-night work.

With all the uncertainty surrounding the federal workforce, the flood of emails, and my need to shut out the noise, I’ve been reflecting on how my coping skills and work habits often align with neurotypical norms.

The first time a colleague asked why I was working so late, I was caught off guard. It hadn’t occurred to me that a 2 a.m. email might seem unusual. But over time, I’ve realized that for many disabled and neurodivergent professionals, working outside conventional hours isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity.

I often structure work around chronic pain flare-ups or medical appointments. Others align their schedules with fluctuating energy levels or assistive care needs. And then there are those who thrive when the world is quiet, free from the constant buzz of notifications and interruptions.

Late nights are when I do my best thinking. With an empty inbox and a silent phone, I can focus deeply and be productive. But I also understand that receiving a 2 a.m. email might seem urgent or unsettling to others. That’s why I’ve started adding a simple disclaimer:

“Please note that the timestamp on this email reflects when it was convenient for me to send it. It does not imply an expectation of immediate response. Please prioritize your work-life balance and reply during your regular working hours.”

It’s a small adjustment, but it helps. It reassures colleagues that I don’t expect them to match my schedule. Still, there’s a bigger issue: unconventional work hours are often misunderstood.

Managers might see off-hours emails as a sign of inefficiency. Clients may misinterpret them as urgent. Some assume the sender is overworked or struggling with boundaries.

But here’s the truth: flexibility makes sustainable work possible for many disabled and neurodivergent employees.

People often assume working odd hours signals poor time management or workaholism. The reality? It’s about playing to our strengths. When we work in ways that align with how our minds and bodies function best, productivity increases, stress decreases, and burnout is less likely. The traditional 9-to-5 schedule doesn’t work for everyone—and for many of us, it actively creates barriers instead of fostering success.

So, if someone’s best work happens outside the typical workday, why fight it? Why enforce a rigid system when flexibility leads to better outcomes for everyone?

If you’ve ever wondered why a colleague is sending emails at odd hours, consider that they might not be struggling—they might just be working when they’re at their best. And if you’re someone who thrives on a nontraditional schedule, how have you navigated conversations around it? I’d love to hear your experiences.

Beyond Compliance: The Art of Fostering Accessibility in Your Organization

Business colleagues discussing architecture project in office.

Honored once again to be featured as a LinkedIn #TopVoice for Disability as we continue the fight for equality.

As we continue celebrating Disability Pride Month, let's address a critical issue: workplace accessibility. This isn't just about compliance; it's about fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of abilities or neurodiversity, can thrive.

A recent Forbes piece by Bérénice Magistretti notes that "80% of disabilities are invisible," including conditions like visual impairment, mental health issues, and chronic diseases. These often go unrecognized, leading to a lack of understanding and support.

Organizations can initiate change by acknowledging these invisible disabilities. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 💜 network provides a discreet method for individuals to indicate they have a non-visible disability, adopted by thousands of businesses worldwide.

However, recognition is just the first step. To genuinely prioritize accessibility, organizations must provide reasonable accommodations. These can range from assistive technology for those with visual impairments to flexible work arrangements for those with chronic conditions. The U.S. Department of Labor's Job Accommodation Network reported in May that nearly half of these accommodations can be implemented for free.

Disclosing a disability can be intimidating due to fear of discrimination. However, open communication can lead to better support and understanding, fostering a more inclusive workplace. When an employee chooses to disclose a disability, believe them. As a leader your first question should be "How can I support you in your role?" Normalize saying 'yes' instead of 'prove it.'

Psychology Today reports that "while 25 percent of employees self-identify as having a disability...most companies report that just 4 to 7 percent of their employees are people with disabilities." The latest Disability:IN 2023 DEI echoed these findings with a median 4.6 percent of companies reporting self identification of disabled employees. This discrepancy underscores the need for more open dialogue and understanding.

Furthermore, we must remember the importance of creating accessible physical spaces and promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives. Employers should ensure that their facilities accommodate individuals with physical disabilities. Encouraging the active participation of disabled employees in decision-making processes can foster a sense of belonging and representation.

Let's use Disability Pride Month as a catalyst for change, making our workplaces more inclusive and accessible for all. Prioritizing accessibility is an ongoing journey that requires commitment, adaptation, and continuous learning.

Why We Need To Bring More Visibility To Invisible Disabilities And Illnesses

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