Stacy Recommends
Here, you'll find a curated list of resources that Stacy has personally tried and tested, along with invaluable recommendations from others. Understanding the unique challenges of neurodivergence, Stacy has handpicked tools, apps, assessments, and books that have truly made a difference for her and others. This page serves as a trusted guide to help you manage daily life, enhance well-being, and unlock your full potential, offering practical solutions and deeper insights to support your journey.
Essential Books
-
"Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn't Designed for You"
by Jenara Nerenberg
Why we're recommending it: This groundbreaking book offers a fresh perspective on how neurodivergent individuals can thrive in environments not built for them. It’s an eye-opener for those seeking to understand how their unique qualities are a strength, not a burden.
What you'll gain: A powerful boost of confidence and practical insights into navigating a neurotypical world. -
"ADHD 2.0"
by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey
Why we're recommending it: ADHD brains function differently, and this book helps you understand how to optimize your mind for success. It’s perfect for busy leaders who want to harness their focus, energy, and creativity.
What you'll gain: New strategies to supercharge your productivity and thrive as a leader with ADHD. -
"The Autistic Brain: Exploring the Strength of a Different Kind of Mind"
by Dr. Temple Grandin
Why we're recommending it: Dr. Grandin’s personal experience and research show how autistic minds are wired for creativity and innovation. This is essential reading for neurodivergent leaders who want to leverage their unique way of thinking.
What you'll gain: Insight into how your brain can be a powerful asset in the workplace, especially in creative problem-solving. -
"Neurodiversity at Work: Drive Innovation, Performance and Productivity with a Neurodiverse Workforce"
by Amanda Kirby and Theo Smith
Why we recommend it: Inclusive workplaces embracing neurodiversity drive innovation and success. This book shows how to create environments where neurodivergent individuals can shine.
What you'll gain: A roadmap for fostering inclusivity at work and unlocking the full potential of your neurodivergent team. -
"A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD: Embrace Neurodiversity, Live Boldly, and Break Through Barriers"
by Sari Solden and Michelle Frank
Why It’s a Must-Read: This book focuses on the unique challenges faced by women with ADHD, empowering readers to embrace their neurodiversity and live authentically. It’s an excellent resource for breaking through societal barriers and navigating both personal and professional challenges.
What You’ll Gain: Insight into how ADHD impacts women, with practical advice for overcoming common challenges and thriving in all areas of life.
Apps & Tools for Focus and Productivity
-
Time Timer MOD – A Game-Changer for Staying on Track
The Time Timer MOD helps me break tasks into manageable chunks and visually track time. It’s an essential tool that reduces anxiety around deadlines and keeps me productive without feeling overwhelmed.
-
Speechify – My Go-To for When My Eyes Get Tired
When my eyes are too tired to get through emails or articles, Speechify reads the content aloud for me. It helps me digest information in a new way and stay on top of tasks even when I can’t physically read.
-
Goblin Tools – My Helper for Task Breakdown and Organization
Goblin Tools simplifies large projects by breaking them into small, manageable steps. It’s a great tool for organizing to-do lists and staying on track without getting overwhelmed.
-
Grammarly – My Trusted Writing Assistant
Grammarly helps improve my writing by catching grammar and spelling errors while also enhancing clarity and tone. Whether it’s for emails or content creation, it’s a valuable tool for making sure my writing is polished and effective.
-
Waze – The Ultimate Stress-Free Travel Companion
I use Waze for every drive because it provides real-time traffic updates and the best routes based on user reports. It helps me avoid unexpected delays and takes the stress out of driving.
Mindfulness & Mental Health Apps
-
Headspace – Guided Meditations to Calm the Mind
Headspace offers easy-to-follow, guided meditations perfect for reducing stress and improving focus. It’s great for those managing ADHD or menopause symptoms who need a little help with mindfulness.
-
Calm – Mindfulness and Relaxation for Sleep and Focus
Calm provides meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises to help manage stress and improve focus. It’s ideal for unwinding after a long day or staying centered during stressful moments.
Sensory Tools for Comfort and Focus
-
Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones – My Essential for Peace and Quiet
These Bose noise-canceling headphones are essential for creating a quiet, focused space wherever I am. They block out distractions and help reduce sensory overload, whether I’m working or relaxing.
-
Sensa Calm Weighted Blanket
For a more budget-friendly weighted blanket, I recommend SensaCalm Weighted Blankets. They provide deep pressure stimulation to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. SensaCalm is a women-owned company, and their blankets are customizable and handmade.
-
Fidget Ring
Why It Works for Me: This discreet, stylish ring helps manage anxiety and maintain focus, especially during meetings or stressful situations.
Price Varies
Self-Assessments & Diagnostic Resources
-
ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1)
-
Embrace Autism's Tests
-
AQ-10 Adult