Hi everyone,
Some of you might remember me - I'm Spencer, and I first posted on this forum 6 years ago. I was 24 then, newly diagnosed, and navigating an employment dispute. It's amazing to think how much has changed since then! I've spent the last few years learning more about myself and autism. It's been a journey of self-discovery, with plenty of ups and downs. I've found a local men's support group that inspired me to take up boxing and weightlifting, which has been a game-changer. In December 2020, I became a 'Fellow' of the Royal Society of Arts and Commerce and participated in many studies about autism with the National Centre for Mental Health.
It's wild to think it's been 6 years since I first poured my heart out on this forum. Back then, I was a whirlwind of confusion and frustration, fresh off a diagnosis and battling an unfair dismissal. Life felt like a never-ending obstacle course with the world's most confusing rulebook. But hey, guess what? I'm still here! Not just surviving, but actually thriving. Turns out, understanding myself as autistic was like finally getting the right map for this crazy journey. The biggest game-changer? Accepting myself, quirks and all. Learning to advocate for my needs, setting boundaries, and finding those awesome people who truly "get" me.
Life threw some curveballs, of course. Navigating the world of dating with autism was... interesting, to say the least. Had my heart trampled a few times, but also found unexpected connections that I wouldn't trade for anything. Career-wise, it's been a rollercoaster. Traditional workplaces? Yeah, not my forte. However, I am being interviewed for a permanent entry-level with a National youth development charity; King's Trust and hoping (if successful) the role would help me become more of an independent adult with autism.
If I could whisper some wisdom to my younger self, it would be this:
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Seriously, some people genuinely care and want to support you. Find your tribe, whether it's online or IRL.
- Embrace your unique strengths. Autism comes with some awesome perks – hyperfocus, out-of-the-box thinking, and a passion for detail that can make you unstoppable.
- Be kind to yourself. Progress isn't linear. There will be bumps in the road, days when you feel overwhelmed. It's okay to take a step back, recharge, and try again.
Now, here's where I'd love to hear from you guys. Has anyone else found their niche hobbies & interests, or careers? Any recommendations for online communities specifically for autistic adults? Always looking to connect and share experiences. Below I have shared a link I recently asked Google community about how they can implement changes to the new generative AI app, Gemini to help those with autism succeed in interview techniques and outcomes, I would appreciate it if many of you could contribute views or recommendations?
Another thing to mention, both my parents are elderly pensioners now, my father was recently put into a care home as he was diagnosed with dementia, where I learnt he has vascular form which is most severe and my mom struggles with day-to-day living so as had to have a number of carers visit daily and takes medication for lymphedema and mental health problems. I am hoping to learn from others how they are dealing with family members who are elderly and the steps they are taking to become more independent.
I'm still learning and growing, but I feel much more confident and comfortable in my own skin now. If you're new to the forum or just starting your journey with autism, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're all in this together.
I am looking forward to connecting with you all!
Spencer
[content removed by Moderator due to breaches of the online community rules and guidelines]
