I am an autistic person who often takes things literally. It can be hard when I am told things that I do not want to hear. I want to often be angry about the things that surround what I am being told. I want to take my anger out on others. But in the end, I know that it doesn’t help anyone to do that. I had to learn to not take things personally and accept responsibility for my decisions.

It can be hard when you are called out for things that you have done that is not appropriate. You want to be angry with those behind the directives that are given to you. It can be hard to understand that some things in life are not appropriate to do. Sometimes, they are not meant to be done. There are expectations that need to be met. Just because I am autistic does not give me a pass at doing what I want to do. I must learn not to take the feedback I am given personally. Accepting feedback is just something that has to happen.

Of course it is hard when you are triggered by something negative about yourself. The first line of defense as is with me is that I want to avoid the situation at hand. It can seem easier than actually correcting the issues that were caused for the correction. Going back and doing what is right feels impossible. I feel targeted for what I did wrong. But in reality it can be many factors that can target why things are said. It takes being an adult and just doing what is right, even when you do not want to. That includes not taking things personally.

Of course feelings can be complex when things get involved. It is important to not let those feelings interfere with what is truly going on with the situation at hand. It takes being a real adult and understanding that there are expectations of whatever environment that you are in. Even if you are autistic, you can still make some effort. Being autistic does not completely excuse you from being an adult and doing what is right. Even as it can feel like you are being targeted, it is very important to not fight back. Do not let the tough feelings overwhelm you because of what is triggered within you.

It can be tempting to act on your emotions when certain situations trigger you. Still, it is very important that you do not react in a negative way. It is important to see the big picture of your environment. You need to understand what is at stake. Is it really worth reacting so intensely? Consequences can occur. You lose opportunities because of saying things you don’t really mean. It is always important to keep your composure throughout everything that you do.