#spicy !
#neurodivergent and #neurospicy friends. where are you in the scale?
It's so interesting to think about a 'sense of belonging scale' for us neurodivergent and neurospicy folks! I mean, it's not like there's one official, universal chart we can all point to, right? But the idea itself really resonates with me. As someone navigating the world with a neurodivergent brain, I've spent a lot of time trying to figure out where I truly fit in – or if I even want to fit into certain spaces. For me, a 'sense of belonging' isn't just about being present in a group; it’s about feeling seen, understood, and genuinely valued for who I am, without having to mask or pretend. It’s that comfortable feeling where my quirks aren't just tolerated, but celebrated, or at the very least, accepted without question. I've been in situations where I felt like I was constantly performing, trying to mimic neurotypical social cues, and honestly, that's exhausting. In those moments, my 'belonging scale' would be plummeting towards zero. On the flip side, I’ve found incredible solace and connection in neurodivergent-affirming spaces, whether online or in person. It’s where I can stim freely, where my communication style isn't viewed as strange, and where others get it without me having to over-explain. In those environments, my sense of belonging skyrockets! It feels like coming home. So, when I think about 'where I am on the scale,' I often reflect on a few things: Authenticity: How much can I truly be myself in this space? Understanding: Do I feel understood by others, or do I constantly feel misunderstood? Reciprocity: Is there a give-and-take in relationships, or do I feel like I'm always the one adapting? Safety: Do I feel safe to express my thoughts and feelings without judgment? Shared Experience: Do I encounter others who share similar lived experiences or perspectives? It’s not static either; my 'score' on this imaginary scale can change daily, depending on who I interact with and what environment I’m in. Sometimes I feel profoundly connected to the broader neurodivergent community, like we're all on this journey together. Other times, I might feel a bit isolated, even within neurodivergent spaces, because our experiences are so diverse. I love that the original post prompted us to think about this. It's such a crucial aspect of well-being for anyone, but especially for us who often feel like outsiders by default. What does a sense of belonging mean to you? How do you measure it in your own life? I'm curious to hear what makes you feel truly at home in a community, whether it's within the neurodivergent sphere or beyond.
