Over the years, several studies have stated that the unemployment rate for autistic adults is high. In many cases, it is up to 85%. It is one of the highest subsections of people that are unemployed. I am proud to not be in that category. There have been times when it has been hard to push on. One thing I do enjoy is my job.

I always say that when my old supervisor was looking for me to work, I didn’t even want to. There were so many misconceptions about working while disabled. There was even some resistance in my parents thinking that I should work. While it was hard in the beginning to go and stick to a work schedule, I stuck through it. I still work two days a week over 15 years later.

Working can be difficult for autistic people. There are so many challenges. Often, many employers do not want to bend the industry standard. They resist accommodating what is needed for the individual. For me I have found solace in knowing that there are things that I have always been accommodated for. That can go a long way in making a job successful.

While there can be challenges in the spectrum of employment, there are also many benefits to hiring an autistic employee. The value that I have demonstrated by showcasing my talents has significantly rewarded me over the years. Even in recent years, I had doubts about those who criticized my pointless decisions. These decisions were destructive. Nonetheless, their concern saved me from falling through to my worst.

Even during the COVID pandemic, my employer gave me enough work. It amounted to one day a week. They did this at a time when they did not have to. I am forever grateful for this extended courtesy. My life was greatly in shambles then. Again, I helped them, and the work paid off in dividends. It paid off just as it did before.

In the past few years, I have gotten back on the right track. I have seen the value of showing up at work mentally well. Being prepared to tackle the day is important. It has made me feel good about myself and proud of being a contributor to society. I also know the value of earning a paycheck. Having a financial coach for over two years has made me wiser at spending my earnings.

Regardless, there is the value of putting someone to work if they want to. It can be hard at first. Yet, breaking down the barriers can help someone with dedication and stamina. They can do what they want to do and earn some money. This also conveys a sense of respect and dignity. It can guarantee more independence instead of becoming a statistic.

Even when I didn’t want to, I am glad that I endured those early days. I allowed my position to become what it is today. There were many times when I wanted to throw in the towel and not keep going. I had to see past the emotions that I was experiencing and allow my sense to come into play. Each week, I am proud that I am not a statistic. I am contributing to society. I am also earning money.