Introducing the TACO Method of Reflection: A Neurodiverse Approach to Learning and Growth

Reflection is an essential part of growth, both personally and professionally. It allows us to look back on our experiences, evaluate what worked and what didn’t, and make informed decisions for the future. However, for many neurodiverse individuals like myself, traditional reflection models can feel overly complex and difficult to relate to.

As a neurodiverse professional, I often found myself struggling to explain the Gibbs learning cycle when asked, “How do you reflect?” I realised that I was fumbling with the concepts, overthinking each step, and losing sight of the purpose of reflection. That’s when I decided something had to change.

With the help of my colleague Rebecca Allsopp, who is also neurodiverse, we developed a method that was simple, accessible, and easy to use: the TACO Method of Reflection.

And yes, we intentionally made it easy to digest (pun fully intended).

The idea for the TACO Method emerged during a conversation with Rebecca in one of our coaching sessions. We were both grappling with how to break down the concept of reflection into something more practical and less intimidating. The Gibbs learning cycle, while effective, felt too complex for the way our minds worked, it was full of steps that didn’t resonate with us.

We needed a framework that could help us and others reflect in a meaningful way without getting caught up in jargon or over-complication. The TACO Method was born out of our shared need to create something straightforward yet effective, something we could use in our day-to-day lives without feeling overwhelmed.

It’s a simple four-step process designed to encourage self-reflection in a way that’s easy to remember and apply in any situation. Let’s break it down:

1. Take a Step Back After completing a task or encountering a challenge, the first step is to simply take a moment to pause. Reflecting isn’t about rushing to conclusions; it’s about allowing yourself the space to step back and observe the Situation from a distance.
2. Analyse the Situation This is where you dig a little deeper. What happened? What was your role? Were there any unexpected challenges? By analysing the Situation, you gain a clearer picture of the circumstances and your actions within them.
3. Could I Have Done it Better? Be honest with yourself here. Was there something you could have handled differently? Maybe you overlooked an important detail, or perhaps your approach didn’t align with the outcome you wanted. This step is all about self-awareness, not self-criticism.
4. Options for Next Time The final step is about planning for future improvement. What can you take away from this experience? What are your options for handling a similar situation next time? This step turns reflection into action, ensuring that you’re learning and growing with each experience.

Why TACO Has Become Part of My Daily Routine

The TACO Method has become more than just a reflection tool, it’s now a fundamental part of my life. In fact, it’s become so ingrained in my routine that I use “TACO” as a verb! After any significant task, interaction, or decision, I TACO it. This habit of reflection helps me continuously improve both personally and professionally.

What makes TACO so effective for me, and for many neurodiverse individuals, is its simplicity. It doesn’t require an in-depth understanding of complex theories, nor does it demand hours of analysis. Instead, it offers a quick, effective way to reflect, learn, and grow from every experience.

The Power of Reflection for Neurodiverse Professionals

For neurodiverse individuals, traditional reflection methods can sometimes feel inaccessible or too rigid. The TACO Method was designed to address this, offering a framework that’s flexible, approachable, and easy to integrate into everyday life. It strips away the unnecessary complexity and focuses on the essential elements of reflection: understanding what happened and learning how to move forward.

Whether you’re working on a project, navigating a workplace challenge, or simply reviewing your day, the TACO Method provides a clear path for reflection. It’s a tool that anyone can use, regardless of their background or learning style, to gain valuable insights and continue growing.

Why TACO is Important for You, Too

You don’t need to be neurodiverse to benefit from the TACO Method. It’s designed to work for everyone, regardless of their learning style or background. If you’re looking for a simple, effective way to reflect on your experiences and make meaningful improvements, give TACO a try.

Next time you complete a task or encounter a challenge, ask yourself: Have I TACO’d this yet?

At Remtek Workplace, we’re committed to creating tools and methods that support neurodiverse professionals in reaching their full potential. The TACO Method is just one of the many ways we help individuals develop self-awareness, improve their skills, and continue growing in their careers.

For more information, email us today at enquiries@remtekworkplace.com