Over the years, it has been difficult for me to accept feedback or respect authoritative figures without getting defensive. Additionally, I would develop scripts (echolalia) along with negative thoughts that were not kind of myself because all I wanted was the hurt to escape my headspace and not hurt me anymore. Eventually, I learned that respecting feedback and authority figures is a critical skill in any environment of any life, regardless of neurotype.

Myself as an autistic person had great difficulty in respecting direction and feedback because it was something that was I was not planning or expecting to happen along with bringing hopes down and elevating anxiety, especially if something is different or changing unexpectedly. It can be hard for me to switch gears when I have had something planned or fear something happening that can be challenging. I would often get angry and see the flaws of authoritative figures to the point that it would be hard to manage life or want to avoid things that were difficult for me to withstand.

Eventually things got better for me and as much as one big change was very difficult to settle into. I continually wanted to blame authoritative figures behind the change because I could not see to respect them for doing what was best for not just me, but for many. I now look back and see that things are much better the way that all and what I have remaining in thoughts are residual in nature. It is up to me to work and process them rather than not let them get to my emotional or mental well-being by occupying my headspace continuously and making me more miserable.

I must understand that everyone has a different personality and the way that they expressed are what they are. When the responses are difficult to receive, I am not always able to see the whole picture behind the feedback or the person and while that can be hard to understand, it is still something to be respected. While it can be difficult to take things personally, there are times when it is not worth the energy to consume or let it get to me or my wellbeing. It is just words in most cases and while it may seem like the end of the world, it is just one thing in a part of the day that someone is saying.

As hard as it can be to feel the desire to disregard an authoritative figure, for myself it is knowing that many of them have been through some of my challenging meltdowns and episodes or seen that I was in a state of decomposition more than I was able to see. They allowed me to both see and understand why caring or my mental health is important and not give up on me when there could have been a million reasons to. They are people who believed in me and keep me able to do the things that I do because they see the values and assets I bring to the table rather than the barriers that are in the way. If only every place was like that! I now know that in addition to understanding my role. I must also respect feedback and authority in that process as well.

Life is never easy nor is it going to be perfect. Things are going to happen where you are going to have to have feedback and get directives from others that you may not agree with. Although you may want to overreact in a negative tone towards others, including authority figures because you may not agree with what is being told to you, it is important to respect authority by not doing any reactive measures that could be consequential. Be respectful and focus on the positives. Relax and think about it later.  It is not the only thing that has to consume your life. It is important to live the life you want to have by taking care of yourself and doing the things that you want to be when you are able to do them.