The Ultimate User Manual: Handle With Care

Everything You Need to Know About Me (And A Few Things You Probably Didn’t Ask For)

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I was listening to a podcast about ADHD (yes, this is my life now), and the guest mentioned how she created a personal user manual to share with her coworkers and team so things run smoothly and she doesn’t miss anything. Brilliant, right? I thought, “I need this in my life!” So, I sat down, took a deep breath (maybe a coffee too), and started thinking about what I would put in my own "User Manual." Here’s what I came up with. Whether you’re neurodivergent or not, I truly think this can be an invaluable tool. It gives people a clear, upfront understanding of how you work, communicate, learn, and what kind of support you may need. And guess what? It’s not just for work. Feel free to share it with your family and partners (just make sure they read it so they can stop asking you where the keys are every day).

So, here it is. Your roadmap to understanding me, the most complex (and delightful) human on earth. And no, I’m not kidding.

Creating a Personal User Manual: Because Why Not?

Creating a user manual isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. It’s a chance to reflect on how you work, communicate, and navigate the world. And hey, maybe you’ll even get a little more clarity in the process. I mean, someone has to! Plus, it helps others understand what they’re signing up for. Win-win, right?

Tina Sorenson's Personal User Manual

Overview
This manual serves as a guide to help you understand how I work, learn, and communicate. It's a snapshot of my soul—uh, I mean, my preferences and quirks—and it’s totally open for others to add their own input. No pressure, but I'm accepting constructive criticism (as long as it's wrapped in a bow of kindness).

How I Learn Best

Hands-On Experience
I’m not here for all that book-studying nonsense. I learn best by doing. Whether I’m experimenting in the kitchen or trying a new wellness routine, if I can physically engage with it, I’m all in. Trial and error is my jam. So, if you see me messing up a recipe or tripping over myself in the garden, just know I’m learning.

Breakdown & Practical Application
Keep it simple. If you’ve got a complex idea, break it down into actionable steps. I’m all for clarity—no vagueness allowed. And don’t give me some long-winded lecture about why something is important. Just tell me how to do it.

Self-Paced Exploration
I’m like a cat with a laser pointer when it comes to new ideas. I need time to chase it down at my own pace. So don’t rush me—ever. My brain needs space to process things and marinate in ideas before I move on to the next thing.

How I Communicate My Needs

Honest and Direct
Say it like it is. If I need something or feel a certain way, you’ll know. I’m not here to sugarcoat it. But don’t worry, I won’t bite your head off either (unless it’s a bad day, but hey, we all have those).

In Writing for Clarity
I’m a huge fan of written communication when things get complicated. If you need me to understand something important, don’t just throw it at me in conversation. Send me a text, an email, a sticky note, anything that’ll let me process without the pressure.

Tone is Key
It’s all about how you say it. I can handle bluntness, but if you’re coming at me with harshness or sarcasm (unless it’s well-placed), I’m out. Be kind, even when you’re being firm. I’ll respect you more for it.

Constructive Feedback
I love feedback—well, the good kind. Tell me what I’m doing wrong, but don’t come at me with your judgmental “I told you so” energy. If it’s a learning moment, I’m all ears.

How I Like to Be Supported

Active Listening
When I’m speaking, really listen. Don’t just nod and think about what’s for dinner. Ask clarifying questions, give me your full attention, and please don’t interrupt. I promise you’ll get a gold star if you do.

Space to Reflect
Sometimes, I need a second to digest. I’m not ignoring you—I'm just processing. So, if I go quiet for a moment, don’t worry, I’m not plotting my escape. I’m just figuring out how to respond thoughtfully.

Empathy & Understanding
If I’m in a tough spot, don’t try to fix it (unless I ask). Just show me you understand and that you’re there. Sometimes, a good “I get it” is all I need to feel supported.

My Communication Style

Clear and Concise
Let’s keep it simple. If it’s important, tell me straight up. I don’t have time to sift through endless details. Trust me, I’ve got a million things on my mind—let’s not make this one of them.

Open to Dialogue
Disagree with me? Bring it on, but be kind about it. I love a good conversation that challenges my thinking, but if you're just here to argue for the sake of arguing, please don’t. My time is too precious.

Humor and Lightness
Laughter is my love language. Life can get heavy, but I’d rather lighten the load with some humor. So don’t be afraid to throw in a joke—even in serious conversations. I promise I’ll appreciate it (and probably crack a smile).

How You Can Help Me Thrive

Respect My Boundaries
I’m not asking for the world here, but I do need my boundaries respected. Whether I need personal space or a quiet moment, just let me have it. No questions asked.

Support My Growth
I’m always evolving, and it’s a beautiful thing. If you’re here for my growth—whether that’s in wellness, creativity, or whatever I’m tackling next—cheer me on. I don’t need perfection, I just need progress.

Transparency and Trust
I don’t do secrecy. If you’ve got something to say, just say it. I promise, I’m a big girl. I can handle it. But if you withhold or lie? That’s a dealbreaker.

Reflection & Continuous Improvement

This manual is a living document. I’m constantly evolving (and, yes, changing my mind about things). So feel free to update your own personal user manual as needed, and I’ll do the same. We’re all works in progress—let’s just try not to blow a gasket along the way.

Your Turn: Create Your Own User Manual!

Okay, now that you’ve seen the masterpiece I’ve crafted (you're welcome), it’s your turn! Creating a personal user manual is the key to clearer communication and better relationships. Whether it’s at work, home, or with friends, you’ll find that this simple tool can help you connect on a deeper level.

Take a moment to create your own, and share it with those who matter most. You’ll thank yourself—and so will they. Let’s make the world a more connected and compassionate place, one personal user manual at a time!

Here’s a quick framework that you can use to create your own—and hey, feel free to steal mine. After all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

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