An undiagnosed Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is akin to playing a computer game that has been permanently set on “hard” mode, working furiously all the time, whilst suffering people forever asking you why you are constantly “dying” since life is all so simple and easy.
A diagnosed ASC has you knowing that the game is on “hard” mode and learning to strategize in order to survive and even win. The game is still hard to play, but at least you know the reasons why things that seem to go so easily and simply for others can be tremendously difficult to you. You learn to ignore others’ criticisms and complaints and to go easy on yourself. You are not failing, you are playing hard and fast at the highest level. And you are no longer dying hard, you’re staying in the game.
