One of the things I and many others on the autism spectrum despise the most is uncertainty. When plans are uncertain, or things happen unexpectedly, this can make us irritated. We sometimes express ourselves in ways that we don’t want to or like. It can be what sometimes makes or breaks a good day for us. But sometimes we just need to wait it out. When we don’t know how things will work out, we find that they actually do.

Patience is not one of my strong suits as is not many on the spectrum. But sometimes there are circumstances where I can’t control what is happening on the other side of the deal. Sometimes the best approach is to have a plan in place. At the last minute, I cancel that plan. Then, I go with the plan that I truly want to happen.

Over the years I had seen this play out in others. Still, it has not been until recently that I have realized how I too can act in a similar way. This happens when things do not go according to plan the way that I think they should. Sometimes, it involves thinking about the million “what-if’s” in the way. Yet, it also makes us really consider what we need to do. We must make sure that we have a plan in place. Even if things do not go as planned, we should adapt. It is important to switch to the plan initially intended for us when it does come a possibility.

In the past year or so I have understood that anything can happen at any time. You must always have a plan in place. Additionally, make sure you have a backup plan if that does not happen for you. This way, you are not caught unprepared if things don’t happen as planned. It’s essential to have a backup plan for when the original plan fails. It can be hard to know what is or is not going to happen. Staying calm and regulated is key. This ensures you stay calm when you need to suddenly switch from one task to another. You do not get emotional or upset.

We also have to make sure we have practices in plan. These practices help us when we need to reassure ourselves. They are useful when we second guess ourselves. It takes knowing how to find solutions. You must know what to do if things don’t go as planned. Decide what you will do and how to handle situations when they occur or do not occur. Knowing what is important and having reassurances in place can significantly help me stay regulated. It is particularly helpful during times of waiting. Additionally, it allows me to know the next steps if what is intended to happen doesn’t occur.

In the end it is finding out what works for you when uncertainty prevails in your mind and plans. It takes knowing what is the best way to stay regulated. You need to keep your mind at ease when things don’t go to plan. It’s also about advocating for solutions. Additionally, having backup plans in place helps when things do not happen the way they are intended to.