1. Acknowledge the Initial Shock: It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or surprised when first realizing or understanding your autism. This new perspective can stir up a mix of emotions, and it’s okay to take your time to process it.

2. Allow Yourself to Grieve: It’s common to feel sadness or grief when looking back at challenges or missed opportunities. Give yourself permission to mourn the years spent not fully understanding yourself.

3. Find Relief and Validation: Take comfort in knowing that autism explains many of the challenges you’ve faced. The understanding of your neurodiversity can offer a sense of relief, as it affirms your experiences rather than invalidating them.

4. Practice Self-Forgiveness: You may have spent years trying to be something you’re not. Start forgiving yourself for past struggles and recognize that it was not your fault—you were simply operating in a world that didn’t understand you.

5. Learn to Accept and Embrace Your Traits: Instead of trying to change, focus on accepting your natural traits. Autism is a part of who you are, and embracing it can bring peace and self-empowerment.

6. Understand Feelings of Frustration: It’s normal to feel frustration when you realize how many of your challenges could have been understood or supported differently. Use this frustration as fuel for growth rather than self-blame.

7. Recognize the Loneliness, but Find Community: While it may feel isolating, know that you are not alone. Many others share similar experiences, and finding a supportive community can help you feel more connected.

8. Reframe Your Struggles as Strengths: Recognize that the traits you’ve struggled with can also be powerful strengths. Whether it’s hyperfocus, unique problem-solving, or creativity, these qualities make you different in valuable ways.

9. Experience the Relief of Understanding Yourself: Understanding your brain and behaviors can bring a sense of clarity. With this insight, you can begin to address your needs and navigate the world in a way that honors your true self.

10. Stay Hopeful for the Future: With greater self-awareness comes the opportunity for growth. Embrace the hope that the world will become more understanding of neurodiversity, and that you can create a life that works for you.