Kent nail artist: How I navigate nail competitions with autism & ADHD
By Guest Writer | 18 March 2025 | Expert Advice, Feature, Health & wellbeing, Tech Talk
Jade Barber, founder of Nail & Beauty Excellence & Scratch Stars L&P Tech of the Year 2022, shares her experiences of neurodiversity in the nail arena…
I began competing early in my nail career, as my educator entered me into a student category at a Professional Beauty nail competition. Without that encouragement, I would never have had the faith in myself to enter the arena. Judging has since become a way for me to give back to the industry that has shaped my life, but for a long time I hid a big part of my story.
I’m autistic and have severe combined type ADHD, and it has taken years to fully understand what that means for me. When my daughter was diagnosed, I knew I had to learn more. While my neurodivergent traits, such as hyperfocus and attention to detail, are my superpowers, they have also brought obstacles. Competing and judging can feel overwhelming – from sensory overload to navigating complex social interactions.
I started competing because I wanted to challenge myself, and competitions have taught me discipline and resilience: two skills I rely on constantly. The thrill of creating under pressure and meeting industry peers is invigorating, but at first, I didn’t realise why it also felt so draining. I’d leave physically and emotionally exhausted, my head buzzing with the overstimulation of bright lights, loud chatter and pressure to perform. I masked my discomfort by silently pushing through, unaware I was neurodivergent.
L&P competition nails by Jade, which led to her scooping the Scratch Stars L&P Tech of the Year title in 2022.
When I received my diagnosis, everything began to make sense. My autism explains my sensitivity to sensory input and difficulty with changes to my routine and last-minute adjustments. My ADHD gives me bursts of incredible focus, but also means I struggle with procrastination, overwhelm and managing expectations.
Rather than seeing these as weaknesses, I’ve learned to reframe my experiences. My ability to hyperfocus means I can produce meticulous, high-quality work when I get into a flow state. My attention to detail helps me excel as a judge, spotting nuances others might miss. These neurodivergent traits have given me a unique edge in my career. However, I’ve had to learn strategies to navigate challenges. For example, I prepare for events by creating a checklist, take breaks when I feel overwhelmed and allow myself space to recover.
“Accepting my neurodivergence has been key to finding balance in this industry.”
For a long time, I kept my experiences hidden, afraid of judgment or misunderstanding, but I know I’m not alone. By opening up, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique challenges. They don’t mean you can’t thrive – they can be the very things that set you apart. There is space for you in this industry, just as you are.
Competing in the Scratch Stars Awards 2022.
Competition tips for neurodivergent techs:
- Make a plan to reduce overwhelm: Create a checklist, make a step-by-step plan and prepare your kit early.
- Find ways to calm your mind: Events can be overstimulating, so consider strategies to centre yourself. These could include taking deep breaths, listening to calming music before arriving or finding a quiet corner to recharge.
- Communicate your needs: It’s OK to advocate for yourself – your needs are valid. Let organisers know what would help you, such as access to a quieter area.
- Focus on your strengths: Embrace what makes you different and channel it into your work.
- Give yourself grace: Perfectionism can be challenging, but remember that mistakes are part of the process, and rest is just as important as hard work.
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