Rejection sensitivity and communication challenges at work are often misunderstood, especially for adults with ADHD.

In this episode of Adulting with ADHD, Sarah talks with leadership coach and CEO of Collaborate Consulting, Trystan Reese, about how rejection sensitivity can affect workplace interactions and self advocacy. Trystan shares how understanding brain based differences can help people approach work challenges with greater clarity and confidence.

Together, they explore why asking for support can feel difficult, how fear of negative feedback can influence behavior, and how small shifts in communication can improve workplace experiences for neurodivergent employees.

This conversation offers a practical reframe: instead of focusing on what feels hard, we can focus on what helps communication feel clearer and more effective.

In this episode, we talk about:

• What rejection sensitivity is and how it relates to ADHD

• Why feedback can feel challenging in professional settings

• How to think through possible outcomes before making requests

• The difference between emotional discomfort and real risk

• Why preparation and practice support better communication

• How to align requests with shared workplace goals

• Why body awareness and regulation can help before difficult conversations

• How self understanding supports self advocacy

Trystan also shares practical tools and examples, including:

• A step by step approach for evaluating concerns

• Ways to request clearer expectations or meeting information

• Simple communication scripts for everyday situations

• Why practicing conversations can increase confidence

• How reframing internal narratives supports growth

If workplace communication feels stressful or uncertain, this episode offers a supportive and realistic approach focused on clarity, preparation, and self trust rather than fear or perfection.

Resources mentioned: Collaborate Consulting Trystan Reese coaching and training services Neurodivergent leadership and workplace inclusion programs