Unmasking Myself: Finding Strength and Joy in Being Autistic

Why happiness isn’t about achieving an ideal but about noticing the moments that resonate with who you are. Living with autism is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. It shapes how I experience the world — sometimes in ways that are challenging, but often in ways that offer unique insights. My path has not been without struggle,Continue reading “Unmasking Myself: Finding Strength and Joy in Being Autistic”

Autism and Expertise: Toward a Nuanced, Inclusive Approach

© Tistje.com, represents autistic thinking Autism is an integral part of human diversity, not a riddle to be solved. A profound understanding of the spectrum of challenges, opportunities, and perspectives comes from centering autistic voices and empowering autistic individuals to lead discussions about their lives. Embracing neurodiversity requires acknowledging autistic people as the primary agents ofContinue reading “Autism and Expertise: Toward a Nuanced, Inclusive Approach”

Towards a Neuro-Inclusive Society with the Triple Empathy Theory

Why Neurodivergent individuals don’t need another abstract theoretical construct but deserve a society that recognizes them. A AI-symbol for the neuro-inclusive society © Tistje.com The Value of NeurodiversityNeurodiversity recognizes that individuals engage with and respond to their environment in varied ways. Approximately one in seven people is neurodivergent (ND), encompassing traits such as ADHD, autism,Continue reading “Towards a Neuro-Inclusive Society with the Triple Empathy Theory”

Autism: Why We Need to Value Different Ways of Being

Autism isn’t a limitation but a unique lens on the world, one that society often overlooks. Valuing perspectives enriches us all — let’s break down barriers, value diversity, and recognize autism as a powerful, irreplaceable part of humanity. Autism is often viewed as something to “treat” or “fix,” but that perspective misses the point entirely. People withContinue reading “Autism: Why We Need to Value Different Ways of Being”

Autism and Society: Embracing Real Inclusion

True inclusion means valuing neurodivergent people as they are — no idealizing, no expectations, just respect. In a world that moves fast, values fitting in, and often keeps things on the surface, neurodivergent people bring a unique view. We help others see society’s blind spots and remind them of the need for real diversity and understanding, especially whenContinue reading “Autism and Society: Embracing Real Inclusion”

Living a Meaningful Life with Autism: Finding My Way in a Neurotypical World

How living a meaningful life for me consists of exploring myself, setting boundaries, finding balance, and valuing authentic connections. How I see myself drawn by AI Autism is a part of who I am, and it shapes how I see and feel things, how I connect (or sometimes don’t connect) with others, and how I navigateContinue reading “Living a Meaningful Life with Autism: Finding My Way in a Neurotypical World”

A tale of strenghts and struggles

Autistic living means navigating daily challenges and it requires resilience, clear communication, and embracing both personal boundaries and unique strengths. Photo by Jen Theodore on Unsplash Living with autism is a true adventure. Some of my days are full of triumphs, others are full of challenges that may not be immediately obvious to the people aroundContinue reading “A tale of strenghts and struggles”

Why Success Stories Are Problematic

A Critical Analysis of Their Impact on Neurodiversity Success stories are everywhere in our society. Think of figures like Temple Grandin, a highly accomplished autistic woman who revolutionized livestock farming and autism advocacy. While her achievements are certainly impressive, the focus on such success stories raises questions about the message this sends to other neurodivergentContinue reading “Why Success Stories Are Problematic”

The Promise and Pitfalls of Neurodiversity: A Comprehensive Exploration

The neurodiversity movement offers a new perspective on neurological differences, but real inclusion requires both true recognition and structural change Photo by Lawless Capture on Unsplash In recent years, the term neurodiversity has emerged as a powerful framework for understanding neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. At its core, neurodiversity challenges the traditional medicalContinue reading “The Promise and Pitfalls of Neurodiversity: A Comprehensive Exploration”

Buddhism and Obsessive Thoughts: Call for a balanced approach

Some Buddhist practices may help autistic individuals with obsessive thoughts, but approaches must be personalized and respectful for what works for every autistic person. Photo by Ashley Batz on Unsplash Many autistic people often have obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Some say these thoughts repeat and grow, causing a lot of suffering. They look for answers inContinue reading “Buddhism and Obsessive Thoughts: Call for a balanced approach”