I like to take time to think out my videos. This week I try a video without a plan.
Published by
Lyric Holmans
Lyric Rivera, an Autistic self-advocate from Texas, runs the the internationally recognized neurodiversity lifestyle blog Neurodivergent Rebel. Neurodivergent Rebel was opened in 2016, as a way to introduce people unfamiliar with autism to neurodiversity. The blog, which is sometimes released in written format and also via YouTube video, explores the ideology of neurodiversity and the creative expressions of autistic people. Riveras’ blog pushes for acceptance of neurological differences and respect for the autonomy of neurodivergent people. Lyric is also known as the pioneer of the #AskingAutistics hashtag, which is often accompanied by a short question about everyday autistic experiences. This simple hashtag connects neurodiverse people who would not otherwise have a reason to engage with each other to foster understanding of the autistic experience. View all posts by Lyric Holmans
I do the same, and I even do it before I go out socially (which isn’t often). I will consider how conversations might unfold and I will rehearse my response and my facial expressions and body language, because I know that matters. If I didn’t do that, I would just stand there like a statue. If a conversation comes up that I haven’t predicted, I suddenly panic and have no idea what to do, so I just go quiet.
If I ever do get around to doing video on my blog (or anywhere), I’m sure it’ll be pretty tightly scripted (and mulled over for a long time in advance). I can totally relate to the need to do that. And to some extent I do that in everyday life too: if I’m going to talk to someone, especially about something important or when I know I won’t be able to get out of the situation quickly if I need to, I’ll spend ages rehearsing possible conversation scenarios in my head. Unpredicted topics tend to make me freeze. (I think I’m more comfortable with ‘awkward’ silences than a lot of people seem to be.) Having said all that, I enjoyed hearing you ramble! 🙂