EPISODE · Jan 11, 2026 · 21 MIN
Progress Isn’t Linear: A Neurodivergent Reality
from Living With an Invisible Learning Challenge · host Jennifer Purcell
This episode reframes “two steps forward, one step back” as a natural and meaningful pattern of growth for neurodivergent people and those with invisible learning challenges. Jennifer explains why nonlinear progress happens—due to brain variability, environmental mismatches, and sensory or emotional fatigue—and why a “step back” is often a signal to rest, adjust, or recalibrate rather than a failure. Through reflection and practical strategies, listeners are reminded that progress isn’t erased by setbacks and forward movement still counts, even when the path isn’t linear. https://linktr.ee/JenniferPTTS?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareReferences / Suggested readingStark, P. (2022, June 5). The Personal Growth Two-Step. Psychology Today. (Psychology Today)Neurauter, J. (2017, March 7). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back – Our Heart of Courage. Harmonious Pathways. (Harmonious Pathways)“The Other Side of Autism” – keyassetskentucky.com: Progression and regression, then more progression and more regression. (Key Assets Kentucky)Scott-Moncrieff, L. (2014). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: The Dynamics of Learning and Backsliding. (PDF) (ResearchGate)
What this episode covers
This episode reframes “two steps forward, one step back” as a natural and meaningful pattern of growth for neurodivergent people and those with invisible learning challenges. Jennifer explains why nonlinear progress happens—due to brain variability, environmental mismatches, and sensory or emotional fatigue—and why a “step back” is often a signal to rest, adjust, or recalibrate rather than a failure. Through reflection and practical strategies, listeners are reminded that progress isn’t erased by setbacks and forward movement still counts, even when the path isn’t linear. https://linktr.ee/JenniferPTTS?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareReferences / Suggested readingStark, P. (2022, June 5). The Personal Growth Two-Step. Psychology Today. (Psychology Today)Neurauter, J. (2017, March 7). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back – Our Heart of Courage. Harmonious Pathways. (Harmonious Pathways)“The Other Side of Autism” – keyassetskentucky.com: Progression and regression, then more progression and more regression. (Key Assets Kentucky)Scott-Moncrieff, L. (2014). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: The Dynamics of Learning and Backsliding. (PDF) (ResearchGate)
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Progress Isn’t Linear: A Neurodivergent Reality
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