Introduction
As society continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of success. As we explore and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals with autism, we can recognize that success comes in many forms. This article helps shed light on a community who are carving out their own unique paths. Let’s dive into the incredible journeys of those on the autism spectrum to learn how every single one of us can redefine what it truly means to succeed.
Defining Success from a Neurodivergent Perspective Success.
The word success holds different meanings for different people. While society often defines success in terms of money, power, and recognition, neurodivergent individuals are reshaping the definition. For them, success encompasses much more than traditional metrics.
For neurodivergent people, success lies in their ability to embrace their unique strengths and talents, rather than conforming to societal expectations. It’s about self-acceptance, finding happiness in one’s own accomplishments, and making a difference in the world. This redefinition of success opens up a world of possibilities for neurodivergent individuals to thrive on their own terms.
For this neurodivergent individual, success is not about conforming to societal norms or seeking external validation. It is the satisfaction they derive from unraveling their unique talents, the sense of accomplishment they feel when they solve a challenging problem, or the impact they make in their community. With unemployment for neurodivergent adults standing at a stark 30-40% according to the Center for Neurodiversity & Employment Innovation, we strive to foster confidence within these individuals to leverage their unique abilities, make significant societal contributions and rewrite the narrative surrounding their potential for success.
Real-Life Examples of Successful Individuals in Various Fields Who Are on the Autism Spectrum
Neurodivergent individuals are making waves in a diverse range of fields. Their exceptional abilities have propelled them to the top of their fields.
Anita Lesko, Nurse Anesthetist
Anita Lesko, a nurse anesthetist and a strong advocate for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), navigates through life as an adult with Asperger syndrome. She was only diagnosed at the age of 50. Anita’s Asperger’s gives her the ability to have what she calls ‘laser focus.’ It’s the ability to stay focused on a project for extreme periods of time with total focus and concentration.
With this focus she began studying to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and was accepted at Columbia University in their Master’s degree program for Nurse Anesthesia. She graduated, passed Board exams, and has been working full time ever since.
Another example of Anita using her gift of laser focus was getting to fly in an F-15 fighter jet. She saw the movie ‘Top Gun’ for the first time in 1995, and by the end of the movie I decided one day she would fly in a fighter jet. Anita spent the next 7 years working her way to becoming an internationally published military aviation photojournalist, which led to her dream being realized in 2006 with a flight in a F-15 Strike Eagle.
Alexis Wineman, Miss America competitor
Alexis Wineman holds the honor of being the first woman diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to grace the stage of the Miss America competition. Her diagnosis of PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder- Not Otherwise Specified) was officially recognized during her middle school years, although she had always felt “different.” As Alexis matured, she grappled with the various challenges linked to ASD, like a speech disorder, difficulty with communication, hypersensitivity to loud noises, and other sensory-related issues. Alexis credits her strong family support system as playing a key role in helping her along her journey to success.
Jamie and his journey
Born on October 29th, 2001 in Cambridge, UK, Jamie has led a life marked by immense personal growth and resilience. Despite being diagnosed with severe autism at age 3, his journey has been a testament to determination and hope. Initially exhibiting symptoms such as spinning in circles and running up and down a room, Jamie was projected to be institutionalized. However, years of hard work and extensive support has resulted in a remarkable transformation.
Today, Jamie thrives in a mainstream preparatory school, performs well academically, excels in music, and can even ride a bike. His progress, far surpassing initial expectations, is rooted in keeping up with his neurotypical peers in various academic disciplines, which is crucial for his potential for an independent life. Advocating for his Special Needs educational support in a mainstream school has been strenuous, particularly for his mother, but vital for his future.
Haley Moss, an extraordinary talent
Another inspiring figure is Haley Moss, a talented artist, author, and attorney. Diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Haley's passion for art and writing became her outlet for self-expression. She learned about her diagnosis at age 9 when her mom, Sherry, told her, “Much like Harry Potter you are different from your peers and have magical powers. Beside an extraordinary memory, autism has given you strengths with computer skills, artistic talents, and a gift for writing.”
Today, she is a published author and her artwork has been exhibited in galleries across the country. As an attorney, Haley focuses on advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, using her own experiences to drive positive change.
These real-life examples demonstrate that success knows no boundaries for the neurodivergent community. By embracing their differences and honing their talents, they are rewriting the rules and proving that true achievement comes in many forms.
Challenges Faced by the Neurodivergent Community and Overcoming Them
While success may shine brightly, the journey is not without its challenges for neurodivergent individuals. They often face additional hurdles in a world designed for neurotypicals.
Social Interactions
One significant challenge can be navigating social interactions. Difficulty in understanding social cues and norms can lead to misunderstandings and marginalization. Neurodivergent individuals find themselves in situations where they struggle to interpret facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. This can make it challenging to form meaningful connections and maintain relationships.
Sensory Sensitivity
Another challenge faced by the neurodivergent community may be sensory sensitivity. The world is an overwhelming place, bombarding them with sights, sounds, and sensations that can cause distress. For someone with sensory processing differences, a simple trip to the grocery store can feel like a sensory overload. The bright lights, loud noises, and bustling crowds can be overwhelming and lead to anxiety or meltdowns.
Fortunately, accommodations have been developed to address these challenges. Many neurodivergent individuals have sought therapy and received specialized training in social skills. Through therapy, they learn how to recognize and interpret social cues, develop effective communication strategies, and navigate social situations with greater ease. Noise-cancelling headphones can be helpful for sensory sensitivity, allowing them to block out excessive noise and create a more calming environment. Sensory-friendly classrooms and workplaces have also emerged, recognizing the importance of creating spaces that prioritize sensory needs.
By confronting these challenges head-on, neurodivergent people are forging their own paths to success. They are not only overcoming obstacles but also bringing about change. Their resilience and determination are inspiring others and challenging societal norms.
The Role of Support Systems
Behind every successful neurodivergent individual lies a strong and supportive community. Support systems play a crucial role in nurturing the strengths and talents of neurodivergent people. They provide a safe space for self-expression, offer guidance and encouragement, and help neurodivergent individuals navigate the complexities of the world. Whether it’s family, friends, support groups, or forward thinking companies, these systems uplift and inspire neurodivergent people on their path to success.
Support groups are another valuable resource within the neurodivergent support system. These groups bring together individuals who share similar experiences and challenges, providing a platform for sharing stories, advice, and strategies for success. Being part of a support group allows neurodivergent individuals to connect with others who truly understand their journey, fostering a sense of camaraderie and empowerment.
Community support systems, such as local organizations and advocacy groups such as Dreamzilla, also play a significant role in the lives of the neurodivergent community. These groups provide resources, information, and a sense of community for individuals and their families. They advocate for the rights and needs of neurodivergent people, working towards a more inclusive society where everyone is valued and supported.
There’s a growing trend among companies to appreciate and harness neurodiversity. Beyond inclusive hiring practices, they have introduced specialized training for managers and staff, aimed at understanding and supporting neurodivergent employees. This not only promotes inclusivity, but also boosts innovation and creativity by capitalizing on diverse perspectives.
Conclusion
The examples of successful neurodivergent individuals and the redefinition of success from a neurodivergent perspective demonstrate that there is no limit to what can be achieved. By embracing their unique strengths, overcoming challenges, and finding support systems, neurodivergent individuals are not just succeeding; they are transforming the world.
As society continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of success. Let us celebrate the accomplishments of the neurodivergent communities and recognize that success comes in many forms. Together, let us create a world where everyone has the opportunity to define and achieve their version of success, regardless of their neurotype.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/stories.html
- https://www.thinkingautism.org.uk/taking-action/testimonials/
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/stories.html
- https://entrepreneurship.uconn.edu/neurodiversitycenter-2/
About the Author:
Eric D Griffing