Disability or Super Ability?

I have read so many discussions about the issues we have as Autistic Syndrome Disorder people but hardly ever celebrations of the achievements. Not that they haven’t been mentioned but often the discussion is about problems at work, having friends, misunderstanding NTs, relationships etc. All these things are very important but so is our uniqueness. We have so much to offer whether we are recognised for our abilities or not. During my school years (which I hated and was bullied) I came joint first in my year in Technical Drawing 98% but was ridiculed  by my peers. I got distinctions and 2.1 Hons degree but was considered nerdy or not cool.

I would like to hear and promote some of the good skills and achievements by people who have often been ignored while helping, supporting and benefitting others. At work my skill was used for others to get promotions, rewards etc. I thought these people were genuine friends only to find out I was being used. Understanding computerised systems and programs that others took praise for. I didn’t know I was autistic until later in my life. I would like to just say I am a good problem solver, be it computerised systems, processes or achieving tasks sometimes thought impossible.

Please write some of the things you have done and achieved even if to support and encourage other talented ASD people.

Parents
  • There was a similar thread on Twitter the other day along the lines of positive traits of ASD.

    My contribution was:

    • Hyperfocus
    • ability to consider a situation without being 'blinded' by emotional considerations
    • not being afraid to call out that 'the Emperor isn't wearing any clothes'
    • lightening-fast processing of inputs
    • ability to abstract the component parts of a problem to find a solution
    • ability to abstract the component parts of a solution to enable it to handle change or be reused in another context
    • ability to stay calm and focused in a crisis

    I'm very, very good at my job (Business Analyst) because of all of the above and those same attributes are what has led to me being referred to as 'their rock' by close friends and family when I've been the one 'keeping it together' through various crises.

  • Thank you for sharing Original Prankster, I was a Data Analyst so understand where you're coming from.

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