Has your autisticness changed over the years?

Not sure autisticness is a real word, but you get the idea.

If I think back to how I was In my 20s, then 30s, then 50s, and now post diagnosis, plus how I am in and out of burnout, I can see some changes.

In my 20s I was far more set on what food I would eat, I had stricter routines, changes made me uncomfortable, I couldn't approach strangers at all, I was quite timid, I couldn't really do social events, if I had to they were a lot more stressful than enjoyable, something to be endured.

As long as not burnt out, I became less timid, more outwardly assured, albeit at the expense of chronic stress, and did more. I stopped most scripting and rarely replay conversations now. I became much better at using forums, and even calling people on the phone (I couldn't use it as a teenager). Social events are hard but not as bad, I still feel awkward, I think that will never go.

I think as you get older there is less new stuff so your sphere widens.

Is this other people's experience?

Parents
  • I did not do 'being young' very well. I think from about 13 to 25 years of age was the worst period of my life. I was hugely lacking in confidence and morbidly self-conscious. The older I became the more I felt happy in my own skin. I do opinionated, grumpy old git really well.

  • Do you worry about that though? I see myself edging down that road and, when I see other men being old and grumpy I am appalled to think that is how I might end up being viewed by the world. I also don't want to be someone giving out their opinion where it is neither wanted or useful and closing my mind off to others differing viewpoints.

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  • Do you worry about that though? I see myself edging down that road and, when I see other men being old and grumpy I am appalled to think that is how I might end up being viewed by the world. I also don't want to be someone giving out their opinion where it is neither wanted or useful and closing my mind off to others differing viewpoints.

Children