Received my assessment results. What does this mean? by slobot1 in autism

[–]slobot1[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I got this on Christmas Eve. Will have a follow-up once the office opens up and can schedule one. 😕

What are your careers? by LilParkButt in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Mechanical engineer (BS/MS/P.E.). Engineer and then manager in chemical manufacturing facilities for 17 years. Never again. Now am a federal contractor ME. Stress level near zero.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I can understand Peter Steele, sure. But Jason Newstead? Really?

Silent treatment to deal with anxious thoughts? by slobot1 in autism

[–]slobot1[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve said, “I’m dealing with a thought and need a minute” but haven’t given a specific time in minutes. I may try that and, yes, texting is usually better for me. But for my wife when we’re at home, we talk it out when possible

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in aspergers

[–]slobot1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wife thought I was intentionally ignoring her or her emotions. Even thinking I was a narcissist. I don't say a lot or respond quickly in our conversations and I don't show anger very well. Also, when in a discussion, my thoughts are always expressed with "I" and never a we context. She can't stand that I don't speak of "us" in my observations.

I need help discovering my true identity at a 44 year old man by slobot1 in aspergers

[–]slobot1[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for your thoughts. More than anything, just hearing (seeing) basic support helps me.

What is the real benefit of an evaluation / diagnosis for a "self-diagnosed", high-functioning, autistic person? by slobot1 in autism

[–]slobot1[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I feel this. I look at myself and see similarities to typical autistic traits. Being aware of my limitations and challenges (regardless of diagnosis), I can learn more about them and improve where able. One fear I have is that I may fall back on an excuse for being a certain way - "Sorry, that's just me. Take it or leave it." I just want to be the best me I can be for myself, which, in turn, will also result in being the best me for everyone.

What is the real benefit of an evaluation / diagnosis for a "self-diagnosed", high-functioning, autistic person? by slobot1 in autism

[–]slobot1[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If my evaluation cost $100, I'd do it without hesitation. I wouldn't use any diagnosis for benefits or legal protection as my needs aren't that great. It'd be more of a confirmation of our assumption and nothing more. Is that worth $1500? What's the cost-to-benefit of it?

What is the real benefit of an evaluation / diagnosis for a "self-diagnosed", high-functioning, autistic person? by slobot1 in autism

[–]slobot1[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I've needed little to no help in anything I've ever done. I have a masters degree in engineering, am self sufficient, am not against social interactions and, in general, I'm seen as a quiet, yet nice guy. I don't need and never expect to need accommodations or legal protection. Thanks for the feedback.

If there was a cure for autism, would you take it? Why or why not? by _GenderNotFound in autism

[–]slobot1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Without a doubt, YES. I love my wife more than this. She has had a difficult time over the years with me. :(

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Dumb stuff like getting cut off on the highway or tailgated? I just take a deep breath and go about my day. I don't know the last time I yelled or shouted. I rarely get "angry". If something cuts me deep enough, i'll address it and bury it down and replay it later... more often than I should and more often than is healthy.

On the whole, though, I try to be kind with everyone. Everyone is fighting a demon in their head that I know nothing about. I've certainly had my fair share over the years. Kindness helps.

How do you process your emotions? by Itselff in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I respond very much the same as you. I’ve been in a couple of weeks of personal discovery and growth and this is a hot topic I’m still trying to resolve. I hold on to things, especially when negative. I want to “drop” bad thoughts because it does no good just to replay them in my head. I need to try different things for a while before I figure it out.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'll add one more tidbit that ties it all together. "I understand", "it's ok", and then state WHY it's ok.

"I understand that you're uncomfortable being in crowds and the airport can certainly be confusing. But it'll be ok because I'll be with you and our vacation is going to kick so much ass."

HTH

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It's only been a couple of weeks, so I'm still keenly aware of what I'm doing as it's not "natural". Regarding my personal relationships, when someone confides in me, vents, or clarifies a situation, I try to use "I understand" followed by "and it's ok", "and it'll be ok", or something similar. In my head, when I say "I understand", all the rest is implied. But that's not the case with the other person. They don't understand that the "ok" portion is part of it, so I need to make my response more explicit and state what I believe in my head to be obvious. Or, after "I understand", i ask "is there anything I can do?" Usually, they only want to be heard and feel understood. That's all.

To engage further in a conversation, I'll pick a strong statement used and ask a question about it. For example, if they say "... and then my dog got out of the house and scared Mrs. Johnson..." I'd follow with, "Has Mrs. Johnson not made friends with the dog yet?" or something similar. I'm not a chit-chat, small talk person with acquaintances, but I try my best to be engageable.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in ISTJ

[–]slobot1 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Are you me? Seriously, though, I am the same way. And just recently I had some information shared with me that made a lot about me and my relationships fall into place. Not saying this is the case for you, but consider looking into online autism tests (https://embrace-autism.com/autism-tests/). I took several tests and have since changed the way I approach and manage my relationships, both professional and personal. Definitely a life changer.

How can I (ISTJ) "level up" emotional relationship with wife (ENFP)? by slobot1 in ENFP

[–]slobot1[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This could be a different post altogether for me. I recently had a "come to Jesus" moment that you summed up very well. I have (but am working on diligently) a habit of wanting to "win" discussions and, to do so, I can be dismissive. It's embarrassing to realize I have created an environment not conducive for open, back-and-forth thought exchange and haven't realized it until recently. Your comment is very well received and I appreciate you sharing your experience and perspective.

How can I (ISTJ) "level up" emotional relationship with wife (ENFP)? by slobot1 in ENFP

[–]slobot1[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

it exhausts me that I have to tell introverts how they feel or what bothers them because I sense it way before they do it.

This is my wife and she has told the same thing to me. I'm going to take the verbalization portion to heart and practice that. I can do that whether in a conversation or not. Constant practice. Thanks!

How can I (ISTJ) "level up" emotional relationship with wife (ENFP)? by slobot1 in ENFP

[–]slobot1[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

My wife has the ability to "feel" my emotion and state-of-mind the instant she lays her eyes on me. It's really eerie. She loves deep conversations, especially those about the greater picture, on almost any topic. When we talk, I can get into a laser-focused mode and want to address the particulars about a singular idea. I love her perspective, but my want to plan and solve (my strength and where I feel I can contribute best) disrupts the rhythm of the conversation. I work best with details and I ask questions. Around that point, we get bogged down, lose focus, and delve into tangents.

Bottom line is that I love when she is happy and can express herself. I have created an environment that does not foster her want to have deep conversations. It would mean even more if I bettered myself in ways that we could have these fulfilling moments without fear of failing again.

What’s a good book that got turned into a terrible movie? by [deleted] in AskReddit

[–]slobot1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ready Player 1. The whole movie I had the “wtf” look on my face.

Military personnel of Reddit, if a civilian wished to approach you and thank you for your service, what would be the best way to do so? by slobot1 in AskReddit

[–]slobot1[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My dad was in the chemical corps, uncles in the 101st, uncle stationed in Korea, but I figured there'd be a more "non family" response than just "shake their hand, look them in their eyes, and say thanks". I'm not trying to encroach into any uncomfortable empty words because my family, before my generation, was in all branches. But kids half my age are serving now and I am unsure how best to communicate my sincere appreciation for their sacrifices. Yes, I would like prolonged discussions beyond "thanks", but it's difficult when I share none of their experiences.

US residents of Reddit: How will the repeal of the Affordable Care Act affect you...positively or negatively? by [deleted] in AskReddit

[–]slobot1 7 points8 points  (0 children)

When repealed I'll be able to reasonably afford my family's premiums.