Giving up Everything to Live a Nonlinear Life: Neurodivergent Thinking in a Linear World

Do you think in a non-linear, non-sequential, atypical way? If your thought path to a solution is a windy one, you’ll relate to today’s guest, Perry Knoppert. Perry founded the Octopus Movement, a movement driving the acceptance and awareness of the incredible abilities of atypical thinkers.

Non-linear thinking can also be described as multipotentiality. Perry decided to name his movement “The Octopus Movement” primarily because it’s easier to say than multipotentiality. In addition, the octopus also represents a curious misfit who thinks outside the box.

Perry’s defining moment happened when he was homeless, unable to see his kids, and without his furniture, books, and other cherished items. Standing in the middle of his girlfriend's living room, he looked outside. He said to his girlfriend “it’s clear to me”, and although at the time he didn’t know exactly what he was referring to, this was the moment he accepted his own neurodiversity.

The expectations set on him by the outside world couldn’t fit him because he was lying to himself. He felt everything in his life was going wrong, even though his intentions were good. He realized he doesn’t fit into the linear world because he’s wired differently—and that’s okay.

It’s important for companies across industries to understand and appreciate non-linear thinking. Atypical thinkers have a tendency to thrive in dynamic circumstances and are able to adapt through the introduction of new ideas. If you want to hire neurodivergent people, consider your unwritten rules and how you can let them go. This could open the door of potential for creative thinkers everywhere.