Heather Cook

AuDHD Without Shame

Without shame, my AuDHD is so much easier to deal with. Here’s why, and an example of it in my real life.

Autistics Have it Harder

Here are several ways autistics have it harder than others, and a tip for getting the life you want anyway.

Close-up on assorted coins spilling out of a jar.

Why I’m Not Raising My Prices

Though the economy is making things harder, I won’t be raising my prices now. Here’s what I’m doing instead.

Is it rude for Autistics to spend holidays in their room?

Is it rude for Autistics to spend holiday gatherings in their room, or opt out, instead of with the family? Is it promoting bad behavior? And how do you explain it to family members?

Close-up on someone painting blue lines.

When Fixing Mistakes Makes Things Worse: Art Lessons 2

I’ve been re-examining some life lessons since I’ve been doing art again. This time, I’m exploring when mistakes can’t be fixed and leave a lasting echo.

When You Hate Being Perceived

Here’s what might be going on if you hate being perceived, if it feels bad or awful, especially if you’re Autistic or otherwise different from the majority around you.

Paint brushes tipped with paint on an orange canvas.

Getting Free From Mistakes: Art Lessons 1

I’ve been re-examining some life lessons since I’ve been doing art again. This time, I’m exploring how some mistakes can be fixed, reduced, or made so that their effects don’t echo.

What’s Next After Adult Autism Identification?

I want to share a little bit about the transition period following adult autism identification.

Wood background with the word "thankful" in the center, surrounded by stylized fall leaves and pumpkins.

Thoughts on Gratitude

Musings on my former reluctance to say “thank you,” saying it too often, and the 180 I’ve done since.

Aiming for A “Good Day” Is Too Much Pressure

If one thing goes wrong in your day, does it feel like the whole day is ruined? When it clicked for me that I didn’t have to categories the entire day that way, a lot of things felt better.