GTB Glossary

Whether you’re navigating the wild world of workplace neurodiversity or just here for the made-up buzzwords, we’ve got you covered. We promise it’s more fun than a corporate compliance meeting (with less jargon). Scroll down, learn a thing or two, and maybe discover your new favorite term to drop at the next office party!



Made-Up Terms for Real-Life Neurodivergent Situations

Because sometimes, the best way to explain neurodivergent experiences is to invent a new word (or three)! Feel free to sprinkle these into your workplace chats and watch as your coworkers stare in confusion—or maybe, just maybe, nod in understanding.

1

Hyperfocus Hijinks

When a neurodivergent employee gets so into a task that the building could burn down and they’d still finish their report on time. It’s productivity magic—until you realize they’ve forgotten to eat for 12 hours.

2

Sensory Shenanigans

The unpredictable chaos caused when too many sensory inputs collide at once—like working in a noisy open office that feels like a circus, minus the fun. It can lead to meltdowns, shutdowns, or just a strong desire for noise-cancelling headphones.

3

Task Tangle

When your to-do list looks like a spaghetti mess of half-finished tasks, random sticky notes, and mental to-dos that evaporate into thin air. But hey, at least you’re multitasking… sort of.

4

Brain Bounce

The art of jumping from one idea to the next at lightning speed. It’s like a mental trampoline where thoughts refuse to sit still—great for brainstorming, not so great for finishing the actual project.

5

Stimulation Station

That one place in the office where a neurodivergent can retreat when things get too intense—maybe it’s a quiet corner, or maybe it’s their car with the seat heater on and a podcast running. It’s a recharge zone!

6

Executive Dysfunction Disaster

That moment when you’ve got all the ideas and no ability to actually start any of them. It’s like having all the ingredients for the world’s best sandwich but no clue how to make it.

7

Auditory Avalanche

When every sound around you feels like it’s been cranked up to 11—whether it’s the hum of the air conditioner or someone chewing too loudly. It’s sensory overload, but with a dramatic flair.

8

Task Tunnel

When someone locks onto a single project and refuses to emerge until it’s done, ignoring all other responsibilities, social obligations, or the concept of time. The downside? You may have to send a rescue party.

9

Processing Pause

That moment when someone asks you a question, and your brain takes a little too long to process it. Cue awkward silence while the gears slowly turn, and then—bam!—the perfect answer arrives, five seconds too late.

10

Brain Buffet

A delightful mental feast where a neurodivergent individual samples a variety of ideas, projects, and interests at once, often leading to creative bursts of inspiration and unexpected connections.

Actual Terms for Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace

The go-to vocabulary for understanding the real concepts behind neuroinclusion and supporting diverse minds at work! There are way too many terms to include them all, but here’s a list of the ones you’re most likely to hear (or should be using).

1

Neurodiversity

The idea that variations in the human brain are normal and should be embraced. It’s like how we all have different tastes in pizza—some like pineapple, some don’t, and that’s okay!

2

Neuroinclusion

The gold standard of workplaces—where all brains, from the hyperfocused to the forgetful, are included and supported. Think of it like adding extra toppings to your pizza: it just makes the whole thing better!

3

Neurodivergent

Referring to individuals whose brain functions differ from what is considered typical, encompassing a variety of conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. It’s like having a special edition of the human brain that comes with unique features and quirks—think of it as a limited edition, one-of-a-kind model in a world of mass production!

4

Neurospicy

Though questionable in actual authenticity, neurospicy has become a common term (and we really like it). It’s the term used by some neurodivergent folks to describe their brains—because “spicy” sounds way more fun than “disordered.” It’s all about embracing the unique flavor of your neurodivergence.

5

Executive Functioning

The mental processes that help us plan, focus, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks. If your brain was a circus, executive functioning would be the ringmaster trying to keep all the acts organized!

6

Masking

The act of concealing one’s neurodivergent traits to blend in with neurotypical peers. It’s like wearing a disguise at a party—sometimes it’s fun, but it can also be super exhausting!

7

Fidgeting and Stimming

We’ve lumped together the terms for both self-stimulatory behaviors and small, repetitive movements made to manage sensory input or emotional states. It’s like your brain and body teaming up for a little dance party—whether it’s hand-flapping, pen-twirling, or bouncing your leg, it’s all about finding comfort and focus in a world that can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. Think of it as your personal rhythm to help navigate life’s chaotic soundtrack!

8

Sensory Issues

Referring to difficulties in processing sensory information, which can lead to heightened sensitivity or a lack of response to sensory stimuli. It’s like your brain is a volume knob that gets stuck on either “too loud” or “too quiet,” making everyday sounds and sensations feel like an overwhelming symphony—or a completely silent movie!

Stay Brassy!

A mindset. A lifestyle. Our own term for supporting neuroinclusion and making neurodiversity into a strategy. It’s all about achievement through skill, determination, and self-confidence. It’s not just about folks embracing neurodivergent differences—it’s about valuing each others strengths and supporting the weaknesses that co-occur with those strengths. In other words, let everyone shine, quirks and all!

For Neurodivergents: To confidently embrace and own one’s traits and skills without fear of judgment or need for masking.
For neurotypicals: To create and support a world where both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals can express their authentic selves.
Example: “In our office, we encourage everyone to stay brassy—bold, unique, and unapologetically themselves!”