Have you ever wondered why you leave work feeling defeated, even when you know you’ve done your job well? Or why no matter how hard you push yourself, it never seems to be enough? The root cause may not be your work ethic or ability but something far deeper: a culture of internalized ableism and toxic productivity that’s deeply embedded in modern workplaces.
Understanding Toxic Productivity and Internalized Ableism
Many workplaces, especially those led by disorganized or uninformed management, foster an environment where overworking is celebrated and expected. These environments often hide behind a façade of “high standards” and “hard work,” but what’s really happening is a cycle of shame, blame, and competition. Employees are pushed to outwork one another, not for their own growth, but to mask the inefficiencies or shortcomings of leadership. This isn’t just toxic—it’s harmful, and it promotes a culture where internalized ableism thrives.
What Is Internalized Ableism?
Internalized ableism is when individuals start believing that their worth is tied to how much and how hard they work, disregarding their own needs and well-being. It whispers that taking breaks, setting boundaries, or working at your own pace is lazy or inadequate. This mentality is reinforced by management styles that degrade or pacify employees who don’t fit the “ideal” mold—people who may work differently but still get the job done effectively.
The Importance of Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace
Neuroinclusivity is not just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for a healthy and productive work environment. Studies show that one in five people is neurodivergent, meaning they may have ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or other neurological differences. These individuals often bring unique perspectives and problem-solving abilities that can greatly benefit any team. Yet, in many workplaces, traditional work structures and toxic productivity models fail to accommodate diverse working styles.
Why Neuroinclusivity Benefits Everyone
A neuroinclusive workplace supports individuals by recognizing different ways of thinking and working, which leads to:
- Higher Innovation: Diverse thinking leads to new ideas and creative problem-solving that benefit all employees, not just neurodivergent ones.
- Better Productivity: Accommodations that help neurodivergent individuals thrive—such as flexible schedules, quiet workspaces, and clear communication—also create a better working environment for neurotypical employees.
- Improved Employee Retention: When people feel understood and valued, they’re more likely to stay and contribute positively to the company.
Neuroinclusivity ensures that work environments shift away from a one-size-fits-all approach, which often leads to burnout, shame, and the feeling of not measuring up.
Signs You Might Be in a Toxic, Non-Inclusive Work Environment
- Leadership Deflection: Managers who offload their responsibilities onto staff and create competition among team members to see who can take on more work. This tactic not only shifts the burden but sets up an unspoken expectation that employees should sacrifice their well-being for the job.
- Rewarding Overwork: Recognition is given only to those who push themselves to unhealthy limits. Meanwhile, employees who maintain balance or work in a sustainable way are often seen as not contributing enough, regardless of their results.
- Degrading Communication: If you’re frequently talked down to, patronized, or your work is minimized, it’s a sign of a culture that values output over human dignity. This can also be a sign of misogyny, where women and marginalized groups are often seen as less capable unless they conform to overwork norms.
- Lack of Inclusivity: An environment where different working styles or needs are not respected or valued. If you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, or simply approach work differently, you might find yourself labeled as lazy or inadequate despite your effectiveness.
Why This Matters
This toxic culture can perpetuate cycles of shame and burnout, making employees internalize the idea that they are inherently flawed or incapable. It shifts the blame from poor management or disorganized systems onto the individuals within those systems, leaving them feeling like they’re constantly trying to prove themselves. This is particularly harmful for neurodivergent individuals who may already struggle with feelings of being misunderstood or undervalued.
What Needs to Change
For workplaces to become truly inclusive and mentally healthy, management must move away from toxic productivity and internalized ableism. This means:
- Recognizing Diverse Work Styles: Celebrating and accommodating different ways of working and recognizing that productivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all model.
- Shifting Focus from Quantity to Quality: Rewarding sustainable work that values results and well-being over relentless overwork.
- Implementing Neuroinclusive Policies: Offering flexibility, clear communication, and support systems that allow all employees to succeed, regardless of their neurotype.
- Fostering Real Leadership: Ensuring that managers are trained to lead, not just delegate and compete with their teams for recognition.
A Call to Reflect
If any of these signs sound familiar, know that you’re not alone. Many workers feel trapped in these environments, questioning their value and struggling under a system that’s designed to make them feel “less than.” It’s important to recognize these issues and understand that they’re not a reflection of your worth or capabilities—they’re symptoms of a greater systemic problem. Embracing neuroinclusivity and dismantling internalized ableism is not just beneficial—it’s necessary for creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.
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Find Balance Amidst Workplace Challenges
Experiencing stress in a toxic work environment can deeply affect your well-being, making it difficult to stay centered and hopeful. The Morning Ritual Guide is designed to help you reconnect with yourself and create a strong foundation for each day, fostering a sense of calm and intention. This neuroinclusive guide offers supportive practices that encourage mental clarity and resilience, empowering you to navigate daily challenges with confidence and seek environments that honor your worth. Begin each morning grounded, ready to face what lies ahead, and build a path toward change. Discover the Morning Ritual Guide.
Impact of Toxic Productivity
To understand the harmful cycle of toxic productivity and its effects on mental health, read this Psychology Today article that explores how and why toxic work culture occurs as well as these other resources:
Article by the American Psychological Association on toxic work environments
Article on the social threats within toxic work environments
Have you experienced similar challenges at work? Share your story below!
