Each of us has our experiences and perceptions of the world, around us reflecting the fact that we are all individuals with distinct backgrounds. However, there are some whose experiences diverge significantly from what many of us perceive. People with autism for example have a condition that affects their communication, behavior, and social interactions. In this post, I delve into my journey as an adult woman who has been diagnosed with autism.
During my childhood in the 80s 90s and early 2000s, there wasn't awareness or understanding of autism in relation to females. The typical image of a person typically revolved around boys exhibiting specific stereotypical behaviors. As a female who could maintain eye contact and engage in conversation—not fitting into these established stereotypes—it is highly likely that I would have never received a diagnosis.
As I reflect on my past it becomes clear that I have always stood out as being different. This was evident through my fascination with games like Sims, where I could immerse myself for hours on end. While I did enjoy the experience of simulating a life it wasn't solely the game itself that captivated me. It was the ability to process information at a speed—a trait shared by individuals, with autism.
The combination of having ADHD and this aspect of my functioning created a contradiction. I would often find myself feeling both overstimulated and under-stimulated. While some might find this exhausting, for me it's just the way I perceive the world.
The concept of " burnout " which has only gained attention in research circles within five years really resonates with my personal experiences. It describes the exhaustion that comes from trying to conform to expectations, which ultimately's not sustainable in the long run. Back in school I vividly remember experiencing this burnout; on one hand, I was overwhelmed by honors classes and volleyball, and on the hand I felt a significant lack of stimulation, which eventually led me to be homeschooled.
This unique interaction with the world has also influenced how people perceive me. As someone who tends to be quiet and reserved someone who avoids trouble I often received comments about being "wise beyond my years." My perspective often diverged from that of my peers. I looked at things from a different angle. This divergence from the norm isn't a flaw or weakness; instead, it's a strength that allows me to see the world from a perspective.
My journey, towards understanding and accepting my autism took a turn when my youngest daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia in grade, which later led to her autism diagnosis. This inspired me to delve into the subject of autism in adult women, which sparked a journey of self-discovery, for me.
Autism in females often goes unnoticed because we tend to hide our symptoms and present ourselves in ways making diagnosis more challenging. However, gaining knowledge about my autism has given me an understanding of both myself and my daughters.
In the process, I also initiated the 'Pink Easel' project drawing from my background in education. It represents happiness, diversity, and acceptance. Values that are important to me as an individual with autism. To put it simply I've always felt different. Lacked the understanding or words to express it. My path of self-discovery has not brought me to a version of myself but has also aided me in raising my daughters who are on the autism spectrum. Despite the obstacles, there is beauty in embracing our differences making this journey truly rewarding.
So if you're curious I have no desire to change anything about who I'm today. Because my differences do not diminish me; they define me as a woman, with ADHD navigating a world where neurotypicality's the norm taking it one day at a time. When I reflect on my journey, in education I noticed a significant gap that became apparent to me over time. It became clear that there was a lack of understanding, representation, and accessible resources for those with ways of thinking.
The birth of the Pink Easel stemmed from this realization. It provided an opportunity for me to utilize my professional experiences offering value to those who felt overlooked. It was my way of addressing this disconnect combining my passion, expertise, and commitment to making a change in the world.
Understanding myself as an adult woman on the autism spectrum has been a process that continues to unfold. During my childhood, there was no awareness or concept of autism for me to grasp and apply to my experiences even though I felt different from my peers. It wasn't until later in life when I noticed similarities, between myself and my youngest daughter, who received an autism diagnosis that I began connecting the dots.
This led me to delve into the intricacies of adult and female autism.I took the initiative to educate myself seek advice, from professionals and undergo a diagnosis. This incredible journey of self-discovery has completely reshaped my understanding of life and all the experiences I've had far.
With this self-awareness and the insights I've gained from managing Early Education Centers, I created the Pink Easel. It serves as a sanctuary for those who feel different overwhelmed or may not fully comprehend their emotions. It's a place that embraces empathy, acceptance, and enlightenment. A space that celebrates the idea of embracing your identity.
As someone with ADHD and Autism, I constantly navigate the balance between being overstimulated and understimulated in life. However this "uniqueness" has honed my problem-solving skills. Made me a keen observer. It has enabled me to see situations and concepts from angles leading to insights that neurotypical individuals might easily miss.
Through the Pink Easel, my mission is to guide others in navigating their neurodivergence. I strive to support those who may be struggling, feeling lost, or simply curious, about the intricacies of their minds. My goal is to provide the knowledge, understanding, and resources that I longed for. Could not find it as I was growing up.
It's important to acknowledge that my personal experience, with autism is distinct to me just like your experience is particular to you. When I say, "If you've met one person you've met one person " I'm highlighting the variety and intricacy within the autism community. Each individual's journey will vary significantly similar to how every artwork on an easel possesses its value.
Therefore irrespective of where you stand in your voyage of self-discovery remember that it's absolutely alright to feel different. Your distinctive traits and qualities shape your identity. The world requires individuals who perceive things differently to think outside the boundaries and fearlessly challenge the established norms.
The Pink Easel, similar to my life, stands as a testament to diversity's magnificence. It celebrates all the remarkable aspects that make us distinctively ourselves. It's not about conforming to a predefined mold but rather embracing and comprehending who you truly are. So to all my fellow 'eccentrics' let's continue embracing our uniqueness and infusing the world with our shades. It's these emotions and experiences that make life so incredibly vibrant.