10 Things You Might Be Getting Wrong About Autism (Especially in Business)

Written By Jacquie Costron

There’s no such thing as normal.

At least, not in the way we’ve been taught to believe. The myth of the "neurotypical" standard—one correct way to communicate, collaborate, or contribute—is exactly that: a myth. And in business, this myth can quietly exclude or mislabel people who process and interact with the world differently.

Autistic people—and other neuro-spicy folks—show up in business spaces every day. But what’s often misunderstood as disinterest, awkwardness, or rudeness may actually be a different neurotype expressing itself authentically. These misunderstandings aren’t just inconvenient. They are barriers to belonging, and they keep us from being able to work together to our greatest potential. 

Wait—what’s neuro-spicy?

It’s a playful, community-embraced term used by many neurodivergent people to describe brains that work a little differently—including autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences. It’s a softer, affirming way to talk about neurological diversity without stigma or clinical weight .  Dani Rodwell explains it well in her blog for Neuro Spark Health,  Neuro-spicy Meaning: What It Means and Where it Came From. 

Here are 10 things you might be getting wrong about neurodivergent people in business or work-related interactions: 

  1. Avoiding Eye Contact = Disrespect

Reality: Eye contact can be overstimulating or distracting. Many neuro-spicy folks listen better without it.

For me, I often break eye contact when I’m reflecting or searching for the right words. It’s not avoidance—it’s thinking. Realizing this is also true for many autistic folks helped me see how often we misinterpret presence based on outdated social norms.

  1. Blunt or Direct Language = Rudeness

Reality: Clear, literal speech is often how neuro-spicy individuals communicate best. It's not unkind—it’s efficient.

  1. Lack of Small Talk = Aloofness

Reality: Many neurodivergent individuals find small talk exhausting or meaningless. They often prefer meaningful conversations.

As a leader of people, I frequently felt pressure to master small talk—to be warm, social, and quick to connect. But if I’m honest, I’ve sometimes found it draining. I’ve come to value depth over chit-chat, and this understanding helps me better support others who feel the same—especially when it’s not just preference, but necessity.

  1. Sensory Sensitivities = Overreaction

Reality: Bright lights, noise, or textures can cause real physical and emotional discomfort and make it challenging to focus in a conversation or engage with a project effectively. What seems minor to one person can be completely overwhelming to someone who’s neuro-spicy.

  1. Monotone Voice = Disinterest

Reality:one modulation varies by neurotype. A flat effect doesn’t mean someone doesn’t care.

  1. Stimming (rocking, tapping, fidgeting) = Unprofessional

Reality: Stimming is a regulation tool, not a distraction. It helps soothe and focus the nervous system.

  1. Needing Time to Process = Being Slow or Not Engaged

Reality: Many neuro-spicy brains need a few beats to formulate responses. Silence doesn't mean disengagement.

I resonate with this differently. I tend to process quickly and move into action almost immediately. That decisiveness has served me—but it’s also where I’ve felt friction with more neuro-spicy collaborators.
Since learning about Mackenzie’s diagnosis, I’ve been more intentional about slowing down, offering space, and not mistaking quiet reflection for disinterest. It’s shifted how I communicate—and frankly, it’s improved our collaboration. What once felt like misalignment now feels like a deeper rhythm I can learn to meet.

  1. Hyperfocus on Details = Being “Too Much”

Reality: This is often a superpower. Precision, dedication, and passion fuel incredible results.

  1. Struggling with Transitions = Being Inflexible

Reality: Many neuro-spicy people rely on structure. Sudden changes can be disorienting and exhausting.

  1. Not “Looking Autistic” = Not Really Autistic

Reality: Autism is a spectrum. Many people mask traits to survive in neurotypical spaces—which is draining and often invisible.


What’s In It for You and Your Business

Creating space for neuro-spicy folks in your business isn’t just about doing the right thing-it’s about doing the smart thing. When you understand these differences:

  • You build stronger relationships. You stop misreading signals and start connecting with people more authentically—clients, team members, partners.

  • You become more inclusive. And inclusivity isn’t a buzzword—it’s a competitive edge.

  • You retain talent. Neurodivergent employees and collaborators bring deep focus, creative problem-solving, and innovation—when supported well.

  • You attract aligned clients. Clients who feel safe and seen will trust you, stay longer, and refer to others.

  • You lead with emotional intelligence. And that kind of leadership resonates. Deeply.

  • You increase your bottom line. 

Inclusive teams are more productive, creative, and loyal. Inclusive businesses outperform financially—and they build trust that turns into repeat business.

In short? You don’t have to fix anyone. You simply have to make room.

Further Reading & Resources

Want to explore more? These thoughtful pieces challenge the idea of what “normal” really is:

Jacquie Costron https://www.costronco.com
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