It has become increasingly clear that this struggle often has its roots in neurodiversity. When individuals are unable to fully demonstrate their strengths and face difficulties in various situations, they are often labeled as having a developmental ‘disorder,’ and their unique traits are viewed as problems.

However, the ‘difficulty in living’ that people experience arises from the interaction between individual traits and their environment. Many of the geniuses who made some of the greatest inventions in history are said to have had brains that functioned differently from the norm. For example, Elon Musk, a well-known entrepreneur, has publicly disclosed that he has Asperger’s syndrome (now recognized as part of Autism Spectrum Disorder: ASD, as per the DSM-5 criteria released by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013). Additionally, filmmaker Steven Spielberg has disclosed that he was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability, and it is also said that he may have co-occurring autism spectrum traits. However, by placing themselves in environments where they could leverage their unique characteristics, these developmental traits have become strengths rather than disabilities. People with the same traits may become charismatic leaders or struggle with employment, depending on their environment.

We believe that by respecting individual traits and creating appropriate environments, we can transform what has been perceived as ‘disability’ or ‘difficulty in living’ into ‘strengths’ and ‘ease of living.’ Human brains and neurology are incredibly diverse, a concept known as ‘neurodiversity.’

We all have our unique characteristics, and the concept of neurodiversity applies to everyone. When the interaction with the environment crosses a certain threshold, individuals are labeled with ‘disabilities’ or ‘illnesses.’ The line between disability and ability, illness and health, is not clear-cut; it is continuous. Therefore, even those who are not labeled as having a disability or illness may feel a congenital difficulty in living in modern society. Some may develop mental health issues due to a lack of supportive environments and social maladjustment. Neurodiversity is an important concept not only for those with developmental traits but for everyone, as it is essential for living richly and authentically.

We are committed to promoting understanding of neurodiversity and working towards building a society where each individual can demonstrate their unique strengths in their own place.