The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery - by Sol Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

"A guide to self-acceptance and empowerment for autistic adults. Through research, practical advice, and personal anecdotes, the book helps readers embrace their neurodivergence, navigate social challenges, and lead fulfilling, authentic lives"--

Book Synopsis

Live Authentically and Function Effectively in All Areas of Your Life

In this first-of-its-kind book, Sol Smith combines current research, his personal experience as a late-diagnosed autistic adult, and lessons learned as an educator to show how you can transcend common mischaracterizations, overcome shame, and gain the skills to flourish. Sol knows that neurodivergent people often feel that nothing they have been taught relates to how they experience the world. To resolve this conflict, they try to change or mask who they are, which can cause isolation, depression, and anxiety. He advises the opposite: Understand yourself, accept yourself, and reduce conflict. Designed to help you peel away the shell of inadequacy and self-blame that often comes with neurodivergence, The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery offers the necessary tools and knowledge to function effectively at home, at work, and in the wider world.

Review Quotes

"Finally, an expert who truly gets the experience of navigating life as a neurodivergent adult in a neurotypical world! Sol Smith's shame-busting guide isn't about fixing who you are -- it's about understanding how your autistic brain works, recognizing and embracing your unique strengths, and discovering tailored tools and strategies to help you thrive authentically and confidently in a neurotypical world."
-- Shawn C. Horn, PsyD, clinical psychologist and author of The Adult ADHD Guide to Social Success

"Sol has managed to make the entire book feel like a love letter to the autistic experience. The message is delivered with an overt kindness and gentleness, filled with the exact kind of affirming encouragement most of us need more of in our everyday life."
-- Melanie Deziel, Late-Diagnosed Diaries

"I followed Sol Smith's advice, and it helped me get out of severe burnout. It's hard, but it worked for me. Working with Sol was validating and life-changing. I am continually thankful for his fantastic coaching and advice."
-- Serena Valentino, New York Times bestselling author of the Villains series

"Sol Smith's guide is a beacon of hope and understanding for neurodivergent adults. With profound empathy and insight, he invites us to embrace our true selves, shed the weight of shame, and step into a life of authenticity and connection."
-- Mackenzie Dunham, LICSW, LCSW, host of the Camp Wild Heart podcast and founder of Wild Heart Society

"Neurodivergent individuals often feel shame and inadequacy due to living in a world that is set up for neurotypical individuals. With The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery, you'll learn how to position yourself for success as you begin to discover and appreciate who you are!"
-- Dr. Kojo Sarfo, Hollywood mental health expert

"This book was a revelation. It led me through a succession of aha moments that were alternately hilarious, jaw-dropping, and heart-wrenching. Not only did it introduce me to myself in a way I have waited for my whole life -- it restored some of the dignity that a world built for neurotypical brains has been stripping away for the past five decades. As someone with a PhD in English literature and thirteen years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist who was diagnosed with autism at fifty, I can say that my lifelong, urgent drive for deep understanding was not only met but honored by this book."
-- Kristina Kyser, PhD, meditation facilitator

"Eloquently portrays the late-diagnosed autistic experience and invites the reader on a journey of self-acceptance through riveting perspectives while challenging stereotypical ideals."
-- Rachel Lorton, late-diagnosed autism advocate

"In addition to the millions of autistic Americans who are aware of their neurotype, millions more are living with inaccurate or partial psychiatric diagnoses like depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and borderline personality disorder. For most of my twenties, I was one of them. Professor Sol's guide is a must-read for anyone questioning the presence or influence of autism in themselves or loved ones in the 2020s. It is the fruit of years of research, critical self-reflection, and community consultation, written by and for high-masking, high-performing, and recently diagnosed (or not-diagnosed-but-pretty-sure) autistic and AuDHD people."
-- Rachel S., MPH, Washington, DC

"This book touches on experiences that I could never put into words, and I cannot imagine how impactful it will be for young people or parents seeking understanding. After falling into autistic burnout myself, I am so grateful this book exists and I get to share it with my clients."
-- Savannah Archer, founder of Sav's Life Skills (late-diagnosed female adult with autism and ADHD)

About the Author

Sol Smith spent nearly two decades as a college professor, always feeling and doing things a little out of step from everyone else, before realizing that his differences had a lot to do with his being autistic. He works with individuals and offers educational seminars about neurodiversity to business and community organizations. He also manages NeuroSpicyCommunity.com, an online community for adult autistics where they can support and learn from one another. Sol lives in Southern California with his wife and four children.