Grateful for a workplace that respects my boundaries
By Eli Mercer on
There are so many conversations about toxic workplaces and bullying, especially toward people with special needs. I’ve heard those stories too, and honestly, they scared me for a long time. I know there are people who are just perennial bullies but I’ve learned that doesn’t have to define every workplace.
Since I’m autistic, one trait that shows up for me at work is my strong need for clear communication and respect for boundaries. Ambiguous instructions, sudden changes, or being put on the spot can be really overwhelming. When expectations are clear, though, I do my best work.
I’m grateful for is that my coworkers actually understand this. They don’t take my need for clarity as incompetence. They don’t push past my boundaries or make jokes about my differences. Instead, they’re kind, respectful, and willing to meet me halfway. If I ask for clarification, I get it. If I need a bit of quiet to focus, it’s respected.
Because of that, I feel safe and that safety gives me the confidence to work effectively on every assignment I’m given. I’m productive not despite being autistic, but because I’m supported as an autistic person.
I know this isn’t everyone’s experience, especially for neurodivergent employees. But I wanted to put this out there to say: healthy, inclusive work environments do exist. And when they do, they don’t just help autistic employees they make work better for everyone.