As autistic people, we often thrive routine and rituals, but sometimes we deserve our own sense of casualness. We don’t have to always wear or do what is part of our lives. We should consider if it serves us for what we have to go through. It is about understanding that we don’t have to act the same way all the time. We can do this as long as we are caring for ourselves.

It can be hard to let loose and just be us. We often feel the need to be outside of what the world and those around us expect us to be. Sometimes we just feel too cold or too hot that we have to learn to adapt to what is. Sometimes we have to sense when the temperature outside is extreme. Our heating and cooling systems can only do so much to keep up. We need to do something different to make ourselves comfortable. It’s better than just feeling comfortable. It’s okay and acceptable to do what is needed during unusual circumstances when we feel too cold or too hot.

You need to have what makes you happy and feel good and comfortable. This must be in an appropriate way. Doing so lets you live life without being miserable. It helps you not be out of sorts. This is crucial when it comes to regulating your body temperature in adverse weather, as it has been in 2026. I have realized that having thermometers in my home helps me know the temperature. Nevertheless, it doesn’t always put everything in perspective. One morning when I woke up, the temperature was zero degrees Fahrenheit. Even though the heat was working, I had to put on sweatpants and a sweater. This was different even when the weather outside also was different.

I have become more self-aware of what my body feels like. I recognize moments when I need to do things to keep myself warm instead of being miserable. I understand what I look like on the outside. I am worthy of being my best self regardless of who sees me or the potential of being seen. I now know that I want to feel comfortable and confident. I want to look my best self. For decades, I did not do so. I avoided choosing to do what it takes to stay warm. I was not aware of things in the outside world to be properly dressed.

I should not have to feel miserable or be prone to being sick. I should not be called out for not being capable of doing important things for the community. I also should not have to attract unwanted attention for unpleasant matters. I do not want to feel embarrassed or horrible for not looking and feeling good and comfortable. I had gotten tired of the looks, laughs, and comments for far too long. I realized that it was up to me, with my family’s help, to get the things I needed. This allowed me to look decent, feel good, and be comfortable. But I know that it isn’t always the same in the outside world. I need to adapt and not always stick to the same old ways that I know.