Escape Room Chronicles: Unleashing the Power of Neurodivergent Minds

Kirsty Heap
March 27, 2024

Rather than viewing neurodivergence as a hindrance, we should celebrate the diversity it brings to the collective human experience.

It was the season for festive gatherings, and what better way for a company to celebrate than with an escape room adventure? Little did we know, this particular escapade would turn into an unforgettable journey that showcased the brilliance of neurodivergent minds.

It was my first-time meeting some of the team in person. As is usual, meeting new people, there is a mix of anticipation and excitement. However, the knowledge that they will be neurodivergent or have a good understanding of it brought a sense of calm.

I had experienced an escape room once before with family members; however, tackling it with work colleagues added a new dimension. I was initially driven by a desire to perform well in front of them, but that pressure soon dissipated and, as the door closed, I relaxed and just had fun. There is something to be said about not feeling the fear of judgement or the need to explain my unique perspectives when surrounded by like-minded people. This fear of judgement has reduced over the years, but still raises its head from time to time.

The prospect of an escape room challenge thrilled us neurodivergent souls and we set right to work. The escape room was a labyrinth of puzzles and enigmas, a playground for our creative minds. It quickly became apparent that we each brought a different perspective and skill-set to the table.

Our journey took an unexpected turn when we managed to trick our way out of a section without completing the prescribed tasks. The organiser, perplexed and amazed, witnessed our unconventional approach to problem-solving. The moment was a testament to the creativity inherent in neurodivergent thinking.

The key to our success lay in our ability to see beyond the established norms. When asked about gaining entry to a bag, our minds approached the problem from a different angle, transposing numbers and confounding the expectations of the escape room design. It was an illustration of neurodivergent minds working at their best and doing what we do – embracing a different way of thinking and looking at things in a different way.

Not content with the one unconventional victory, we surprised ourselves and the organiser once again by escaping the entire room without following the intended process. The trick? Flipping perspectives on a padlock, proving that neurodivergent minds are adept at finding solutions where others might see roadblocks.

In the aftermath of our double escapade, a realisation settled in – our neurodivergent minds had not only conquered the challenges but had also uncovered flaws in the escape room format. The organiser, initially baffled, came to appreciate the different perspectives that we, as neurodivergent thinkers, brought to the table.

The Moral of the Story:

The tale of our escape room adventure serves as a reminder that embracing neurodivergence unlocks a world of innovation and creativity. The moral here is not just about the triumphs within an escape room but the broader implications for society. Neurodivergent individuals possess a unique ability to perceive and approach problems in ways that may elude the neurotypical mind.

Rather than viewing neurodivergence as a hindrance, we should celebrate the diversity it brings to the collective human experience. Our minds, wired differently, can offer solutions, insights, and perspectives that enrich the tapestry of innovation and progress.

As we reflect upon our escape room chronicles, let it be a testament to the power of neurodivergent thinking. Our ability to navigate challenges with an unconventional flair not only liberated us from the clutches of the escape room but also illuminated the strengths that lie within our diverse minds. In embracing neurodivergence, we open the door to a world where different perspectives are not only valued but celebrated for the unique contributions they bring to the grand puzzle of life.

If you’re feeling trapped within the challenges of your neurodivergent condition, contact me for a chat to explore how we can work together to tackle your own ‘escape room’!

Escape Room Chronicles: Unleashing the Power of Neurodivergent Minds

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