Wisconsin Autism Empowerment

Adult Panel: Surviving Daily Life

Our Treasures and Wisconsin Autism Empowerment held a panel on July 12, 2025, where three autistic adults came together to share the methods they’ve developed for managing everyday challenges. Their wisdom—hard-earned through experience—offered practical insights and validating reminders for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of adulthood.

Below is a summary of the strategies they discussed, framed around key areas of daily life:

1. How Do You Keep Track of Appointments or Things to Do?

• Google Calendar – Easy to sync across devices and color-code for different task types.
• AI and Virtual Assistants – Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant can set reminders on the fly.
• Phone Alarms & Reminders – Simple and effective; set it and forget it until the ping.
• Physical Calendars – A wall calendar or planner offers a helpful visual overview.
• Outlook Calendar with Reminders – Ideal for workplace environments.
• Appointment Texts & Emails – Many providers offer automated reminders—opt in when possible.

Pro Tip: It’s okay to say no. Not everything has to go on your schedule. And if you’re running late, a quick explanation goes a long way.

2. How Do You Manage Tasks That Need to Be Done?

• Break It Down – One chore a day makes things feel less overwhelming.
• Clean as You Go – Especially helpful while cooking to avoid a big mess later.
• Designate Task Days – Laundry on Sundays, groceries on Mondays, etc.
• Do It Right Away – Sometimes the best time is now.
• Prioritize – Knock out the most urgent or important things first.
• External Prompting – Parents, roommates, or reminders from others can help.
• Use Task Tools – Outlook tasks or software like Smartsheet for work.
• If the Boss Says So… – That moves to the top of the list.

3. How Do You Maintain Structure and Routine?

• Check-In with Someone You Trust – Accountability doesn’t have to be pressure.
• Anxiety as Fuel – Not ideal, but many wait until the last minute because it works.
• Cued Recall – Notes by the front door, keys, or other places you can’t miss.
• Structured Check-In Times – A set time each day or week to pause, plan, and reset.

4. How Do You Manage Paperwork?

• Ask Questions – Don’t sign until you understand what you’re signing.
• Be Wary of Pressure – If someone is rushing you to sign, pause and evaluate.
• Learn the Format – Some online forms are picky (e.g., MM/DD/YYYY).
• Find Support – For complex paperwork like taxes, ask for help.
• Keep It Together – Create a folder or box for important documents.

5. How Do You Manage Stress and Overwhelm?

• Lean on Community – You’re not alone. Support matters.
• Wrap Yourself in Comfort – Take a nap, become a burrito, and breathe.
• Deep Breathing – Simple, but powerful.
• Focus on the Positive – A shiny rock, a bird’s song—find a “glimmer.”
• Think Logically – Ask yourself: What can I actually do about this?
• Stim It Out – Fidgeting or repetitive motion can release emotional pressure.
• Get Moving – A walk, a workout, or even doing dishes can help reset your brain.
• Take Space – A timeout isn’t giving up—it’s strategy.

Know who your allies are. And remember to question the source of the stress. Who made these rules? Do they serve you?

6. How Do You Re-Engage After Burnout or Shutdown?

• Brute Force It – Push through, check the box, move on.
• Step Away First – Sometimes a short break makes all the difference.
• Nap, Then Try Again – Rest is not failure.
• Do Something Enjoyable First – Music, games, reading—then return with more energy.
• Use “Do This, Then That” – One task earns you the next activity. Build momentum.

7. Final Thoughts from the Group

• Times are tough—support is essential.
• Perfection is a myth—“Close enough” often is enough.
• You can start over—as many times as you need.
• You define your path—no one else gets to decide who you are.
• It’s okay to care for yourself—and okay to ask for help.

Bonus: What Surprised Us About Being an Adult?

• You have to buy or make food… again and again and again.
• Everything costs money.
• There are real consequences for every decision—or indecision.
• There’s deep wisdom in experience—from mentors, advisors, and even mistakes.

Conclusion

To those building a life in a world that doesn’t always make sense: you’re doing better than you think. These strategies don’t guarantee ease, but they offer a foothold. And sometimes, that’s all you need to take the next step.