What Positive Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?

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Original illustration by Haley Moss of 4 people holding hands in a sunny beach setting — Original illustration by Haley Moss

Issue 15’s Big Question

“If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?”

Haley Moss, our Guest Editor, asked this question to the #ActuallyAutistic Community and here’s what they had to say:

Don’t worry about what people think of you, don’t pay attention to that. Work hard and pay attention to what matters most.

Michael McDonald, @MikeTheAspie

I grew up in a world where autism was hardly known. I would go back and tell myself there is a reason you’re different. There is no need to feel ashamed. One day it will be explained and you will start to appreciate how amazing and unique you are.

Jim, @EdgySpirit

Don’t worry that you have no friends. You are doing just fine, and it won’t always be that way. But take time to learn some social skills, kindness, and looking out for others, it will pay off.

Madge Woolard, @funkiepiano

You’re vulnerable, because you feel weird and unpopular. This causes you to seek validation from others. Don’t let predators take advantage of that

Charlie Hart, Neurodiversity Champion, Solicitors Regulation Authority, @AusomeCharlie

Just because you experience the world differently doesn’t mean your version is wrong. Sometimes people will just be jerks. Don’t listen to others when they try to tell you what you are and are not feeling. You’re allowed. Your experiences matter.

Autistic Science Lady, @AspieHuman

Start. Typing. To. Communicate. It works better for you than trying to say hard stuff out loud

Alyssa, @yes_thattoo

One piece of advice is that you don’t have to be like everyone else to be accepted. You can be accepted, just as you are; and those who accept you as such are your true friends.

Kylie, @Aspergirlkylie

For all the faults people tell you they see in you, they cannot see your strength, your resilience, your determination or your need to be truthful, honourable and kind.

Autistamatic, @autistamatic

If you just laugh about it, awkwardness can be kind of endearing, and not crushingly embarrassing.

@missplaced14

It’s okay to pick a different grocery store. When you’re an adult you can buy lettuce where the lights are nicer and the signs aren’t so bossy and that’s your right as an adult. There’s no shame in commuting for comfort.

Pastel Ninja, @PastelNinja