There are times in life that require more of our energy.

For an autistic person, it often costs us double the energy and the tactic of second-guessing often comes to play.

Is it worth the extra effort? Is putting out all that extra energy going to pay off in the end?

Sometimes, you know yourself best and must put it to the test.

It means refocusing your priorities, even doing the unknown or fighting your fear not for you, but others know you can.

It may mean making changes to your day and having additional burnout later.

It may mean that the mail sits in the box a little longer than usual.

It may mean that you have to catch up on your sleep patterns through the rest of the weekend.

It may mean that you have to leave things messy a little bit longer.

Even if it means not making the bed until 5 PM the next day.

It may also mean that you prepare ahead of time.

Using time before to get things done that you would have done in that time you bent the schedule.

Setting alarms and times that you will take your medication, so you do not get off track.

It means making sure that you have everything you need to manage a world that is not made for you.

Making sure you know what to expect and having a pre-determined strategy for your plans.

This is how I manage things that are not the norm, because I too deserve a life of possibilities.

A life that is not dull or cookie-cutter. Where I can be a part of a community. Have a voice.

Be who I want to be, because I  want to be, learning more about my life as it flows.

Knowing that I too deserve the life I want, despite my personal challenges.  I know I can.

Because I have worked ever so hard to get this far.

Because it is worth the extra effort,

It pays off and makes me a happy person.

Not unhappy or isolated from living in a state of fear. Branching out a little bit.

Getting out of my comfort zone, because in the end, it’s worth that extra effort.