Embrace Your Authentic Autistic Self: Top 10 Tips
Oct 22, 2024Welcome to a joyful and positive space where we celebrate autism and the beauty of being our authentic autistic selves.
This post is inspired by the fabulous webinar delivered by Chris Bonnello (Autistic Not Weird) for The PDA Space.
A free downloadable e-book is available here to support this blog and to share with friends and family:
Let's dive into Chris Bonnello’s Top 10 Countdown: Tips for embracing your authentic autistic identity and enjoying who you are!
10. Normality Doesn’t Exist!
In a world that often pushes for conformity, it's vital to remember: there is no such thing as normal.
Every individual's neurodivergence is natural and beautiful. Embrace your unique identity and understand that normality is just a myth.
9. Self-Perception Means Everything
How you perceive yourself greatly impacts your well-being. Surround yourself with people who validate and understand you. Nurture a positive self-perception and connect with those who truly get you.
8. Shame Is Not Your Fault
Shame often stems from societal misconceptions about autism. It's not your burden to carry.
Believe in your experiences and needs, they are valid. Being autistic is not something to be ashamed of, embrace your differences and any weirdness you may have!
7. Find Your Tribe
Your tribe doesn’t necessarily mean other autistic people, but those who understand and accept you for who you are. Shared experiences can foster a sense of belonging and create a valuable support network. Whether you are neurodivergent or neurotypical, find those who validate your experiences and celebrate your uniqueness.
6. Find Environments Where You Can Be Your Real Self
Assess the spaces and places you go to. Do they allow you to express your authentic self? Safe environments where you can stim, move, and meet your sensory needs and can communicate freely are essential. Cultivate these spaces to avoid the exhaustion of constant masking.
5. Ask Yourself: How Good IS Masking?
Masking might be a necessary survival strategy, but long-term it can lead to burnout and loneliness. Find a balance and safe spaces where you can be yourself without the need to mask.
4. Surround Yourself with People Who Bring You Joy
Be with people who understand and support you.
Share interests and moments of joy with those who get to know you on your terms. Joyful connections are invaluable.
3. If Something Brings You Joy, It Brings You Joy
Joy is deeply personal. Seek out those glimmers in life that bring you happiness. Cherish these moments and share them with others to spread joy.
2. Find Environments that Play to Your Autistic Strengths
Life can be challenging when the world isn’t set up for you. Play to your strengths and find spaces where you are valued for who you are. Differences are wonderful and part of neurodiversity’s beauty.
1. Don’t Just Make Peace with Who You Are—Actually ENJOY Who You Are!
Embrace your weirdness and enjoy being you! Try to reframe any deficit-based views of yourself. Celebrate your strengths and surround yourself with those who value you for your authentic self.
Additional Resources And Signposting:
(www.thepdaspace.com): Family support workshops, webinars, coaching, and online peer support groups.
(www.chrisbonnello.com and www.autisticnotweird.com ): Follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Patreon.
(www.autismunderstood.co.uk): Designed by autistic young people for autistic individuals, by Spectrum Gaming.
(www.autisticrealms.com): Articles and resources on autism, education, and mental health.
Let’s embrace our authentic autistic selves and enjoy the unique journey we’re on.
Stay weird and wonderful!
