Can People with Asperger's Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorders Be Successful?

Yes…Ultimately, I was able to attain regular paid work as a freelance writer and editor, but it was certainly an uphill battle with many pitching rejections and instances where people attempted to avoid payment because they thought they could get away with it. Sometimes my “mask” fell off at the wrong time, making people uncomfortable. Additionally, I attracted individuals who tried to capitalize on my network, used me to gain access to publicists and editors, and poached my contacts. In some cases, these very same individuals turned against me, realizing they couldn’t write and consequently giving me a chance after all. My website is a testament to my persistence, but I often wonder how much more successful I could have been had I not faced these challenges.

While many of the people who wronged me experienced a visit from karma, I remain disappointed that some still see my disability and my behavior on bad days, rather than the whole picture. Moreover, when discussing 9-to-5 jobs, there are often additional layers of complexity. Today, getting hired at certain outlets is heavily influenced by ‘pretty privilege’ due to the influence of influencers. Now, at the age of 40, I no longer look like the ‘pretty’ that some seem to be seeking. This irony comes from my 30s, a time when appearance was less critical, and most of my peers were either friends or mentors who were well-established and significantly older than I was.

Challenges and Success

It is indeed challenging, but success can take many forms. It depends on what you mean by successful. For me, I currently fit all external social criteria for it: I had a great career and was able to retire at a fairly young age. I’m married. However, it wasn’t easy, and achieving these criteria came later than typically ‘normal’. Additionally, the usual challenges associated with being on the autism spectrum persist.

I didn't find my current career until my early 30s. Prior to that, I lived pretty close to the poverty line, was alone with few friends, and most of them were through a 12-step program rather than through Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. My self-esteem was low, and I did everything possible to live down to my mother and stepfather’s expectations. I had no love life, and was not diagnosed until my early 60s, making it difficult to fit into any definition of successful. I married late in life and have no children. I found out much later that there were opportunities for love but was unable to 'see' them.

Perspectives on Success

The journey to success is multifaceted. Success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. For someone with Asperger's or autism, it often looks different and takes longer to manifest. It is important to celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, and to understand that success is not just about career achievements or financial prosperity.

Building a strong support network and finding coping mechanisms are crucial steps. Seeking therapy, joining support groups, and engaging with professionals who understand the nuances of living with autism can significantly enhance one's quality of life and increase the likelihood of achieving long-term success. Additionally, focusing on personal growth and setting realistic goals can provide a clear path forward.

Conclusion

Yes, individuals with Asperger's Syndrome or autism spectrum disorders can be successful, but it requires perseverance, self-awareness, and a supportive environment. Whether in a career, personal life, or any other aspect of life, success is subjective. It's important to celebrate every achievement and recognize that challenges are part of the journey.