# Enhancing Communication Skills: An Autistic Journey
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Chapter 1: Overcoming Verbal Communication Challenges
In this sixth and final installment of my series on enhancing communication abilities as an autistic individual, I reflect on the hurdles I faced. Recently, I dealt with inflammation in my vocal cords for about six days, requiring anti-inflammatory medication. It was quite severe, as I experienced coughing up blood and mucus, alongside a sensation akin to smoking two packs of cigarettes daily.
I employed a "blast and cruise" approach, maintaining a speaking level equivalent to about one-quarter of an extroverted person as my baseline. On days off from work, I pushed myself harder to engage socially.
I ventured into train stations and shopping centers for sensory exposure training related to autism. My activities included loud reading and singing, which unfortunately led to severe headaches and even nausea.
During this phase, I focused on reading several books that emphasized low, medium, and high-conflict communication. This practice helped me connect better with myself and others while enhancing my problem-solving skills.
As a result, I became more adept at handling social interactions and general speaking, reaching about one-third of the communication capacity of an extroverted person. Public speaking has become manageable, and engaging in social exchanges across various contexts is now easier in moderate doses.
However, I've sensed some stagnation in my progress and don't anticipate significant advancements shortly. Nonetheless, achieving the ability to manage approximately one-third of an extroverted person's social communication has greatly improved my quality of life, and I am grateful for this journey.
I plan to shift my focus away from public speaking and instead explore singing, playing the guitar, and keyboard. I recognize that many individuals excel in public speaking and find it more efficient, so for now, I’ll leave that to them.
Section 1.1: Insights on Modernity and Acceleration
In my explorations, I also encountered concepts surrounding the acceleration of modernity. The Renaissance marked the beginning of a historical dialogue about "new time," where both proponents and critics of modernity acknowledged a shared experience: the rapid pace of life and individual experiences. Recent historical analyses suggest that much of cultural history can be understood through this lens of altered perceptions of time and space.
Section 1.2: Connecting with the Community
Through this project, I've built a strong foundation in my communication skills, and I look forward to engaging with my community through music and social interactions. I appreciate the support and interest from those following my journey.
Join me on my social media platforms to stay updated on my progress, and thank you for your time.
Reading Aloud
"From the love of movement to the law of acceleration: observations of modernity."
Chapter 2: Future Directions
As I transition into new avenues of expression, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. This journey has not only enhanced my communication skills but also enriched my life in numerous ways.