It's completely understandable to want to make friends and feel accepted by others. However, trying to hide or suppress aspects of yourself, such as ADHD, autism, OCD fixation, or anxiety, can be emotionally taxing and may not be the best approach to forming genuine connections with others. Instead, consider the following suggestions to improve your social interactions and build meaningful relationships:
Seek Supportive Spaces: Look for environments where people are more likely to be understanding and accepting of neurodiversity. Join clubs, support groups, or online communities that focus on common interests and offer a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere.
Educate and Advocate: If you feel comfortable, consider educating close friends or acquaintances about your conditions. Knowledge and understanding can lead to more empathetic and compassionate interactions.
Be Authentic: Embrace who you are and try to be authentic in your interactions. Authenticity can help you attract friends who appreciate and accept you for who you are, quirks and all.
Focus on Common Interests: When meeting new people, focus on shared hobbies, interests, or activities. Engaging in activities you enjoy can make it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.
Set Boundaries: If you encounter negative or unsupportive reactions from others, remember that you have the right to set boundaries. Surround yourself with people who respect and understand your needs.
Work on Social Skills: While it's essential to be yourself, working on social skills can improve your interactions and help you feel more confident. Social skills can be developed through practice and learning.
Consider Professional Support: Seeking help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in neurodiversity or social skills training can be beneficial. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate social situations.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and understand that everyone faces challenges. Embrace self-compassion and remember that it's okay to be different.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity: Instead of trying to make many friends, prioritize building deeper connections with a few people who genuinely understand and appreciate you.
Remember, forming authentic relationships is about finding people who appreciate you for who you are, including your neurodivergent traits. Hiding parts of yourself may lead to a sense of disconnection and frustration in the long run. Surrounding yourself with supportive and understanding individuals will ultimately lead to more fulfilling and meaningful friendships.