Understanding Your Executive Function Profile
A Guide to Mapping Your Management System
If you’ve spent years wondering why you can’t "just get started" on a project, or why your brain feels like it has a hundred browser tabs open at once, you’ve likely been told you just need more discipline.
But with our neuroaffirming knowledge, we know that’s not true. It isn’t a lack of willpower; it’s a matter of Executive Function.
Think of Executive Functioning (EF) as your brain’s internal management system. It’s the "CEO" responsible for organising your thoughts, starting tasks, holding onto information, and managing your emotional responses. When we struggle to navigate a world built for neurotypical brains, it’s usually because our internal management system has its own unique way of operating.
To help you move from frustration to clarity, I’ve developed a free tool: The Executive Functioning Profile.
What Exactly are Executive Functions?
Executive functions aren't just one thing. They are a collection of cognitive skills that work together to help us achieve goals. In neurodivergent coaching, we look at eight key areas:
Working Memory: Holding onto information while you’re using it.
Task Initiation: The ability to "get the ball moving" on a task.
Emotional Regulation: Managing your feelings so they don't overwhelm your day.
Organisation & Time Management: Keeping track of time as well as your physical and digital resources.
Planning & Prioritisation: Seeing the finish line and knowing which step to take first.
Inhibition & Impulsivity: The ability to "pause" before acting or speaking.
Flexible Thinking: Adapting when plans change (without a shutdown).
Self-Monitoring: Realising how you’re doing in the moment.
Why "Willpower" Isn’t the Answer
“For many of us, especially those with late-diagnosed ADHD or Autism, we’ve spent a lifetime blaming ourselves for “procrastinating.”
When you understand your EF Profile, you realise that procrastination is often just a breakdown in Task Initiation or Planning. When you can see exactly where the "friction" is, you can stop fighting yourself and start building strategies that actually work for your specific brain.
Visualising Your Strengths: The Radar Chart
Most assessments give you a dry list of scores. But neurodivergent brains often benefit from visual anchors. When you complete the Kindred Neurodiversity Executive Function Profile, you’ll receive an instant radar chart. This "map" shows you the shape of your brain’s management system.
High peaks show your natural strengths: the areas where your brain is already thriving.
Lower valleys show the areas where the "friction" lives: the spots where we can co-create new practices in coaching.
There is no "perfect" shape. The goal is simply to build a picture of your life as it is today, so we can move forward with gentle accountability and self-compassion.
How to Use Your EF Profile Report
I’ve designed this tool to be a supportive starting point, not a clinical diagnosis. Here is how you can make the most of it:
Download Your PDF: Once you complete the 5-minute assessment, you can download a personalised report.
Look for the "Strong" Areas: We often focus on what’s wrong. Start by celebrating what’s STRONG.
Identify One "Developing" Area: Instead of trying to fix everything, pick one area (like Organisation or Working Memory) to focus on this week.
Share it with a Kindred Spirit: Whether it’s a partner, a friend, or your coach, showing someone the "shape" of your brain can be a powerful way to advocate for your needs.
Ready to Map Your System?
This tool is completely free, requires no email signup, and is designed to be a gift to the neurodivergent community. It’s practical, visual, and, most importantly, judgement-free.
Let’s chat
If you find that your profile sparks a lot of questions, or if you’re ready to start building those empowering practices to help you thrive, I’d love to chat. You can book a free 30-minute introductory call here and we can look at your results together.
