January 4, 2020

Happy 2020! How have you grown since 2010? For me, here are the lessons that stood out most each year.

In 2010, I learned that what other people think of me is a fact about them, not a fact about me.

In 2011, I learned that my brain is beautiful.

In 2012, I learned how to be brave.

In 2013, I learned that there are other people like me.

In 2014, I learned that it’s possible to solve more problems than I thought.

In 2015, I learned the importance of personal systems and routines.

In 2016, I learned that there’s a word for what I learned in 2011 and 2013 – “autism.”

In 2017, I learned a million more things about my brain.

In 2018, I learned that what I’ve been learning can help other people as well.

In 2019, I learned to identify what sparks my energy, and pursue more of it.

May our lives grow brighter, bolder, and ever more beautiful in the decade to come!

P.S. I write from my personal experience as an autistic. What I share is not a substitute for advice from an autistic medical professional. Also, some of my opinions have changed since I first wrote them.