and how do you deflect prying questions about you and limit these rituals to 2 minutes instead of wasting 30 minutes?
asking as somebody who, if not on the spectrum, is socially awkward, likes solitude, boundaries and to be left alone (to do the job)
I still believe none of your answers is going to help me because neurotypical solutions don’t work for me but I have nothing to lose with this question.
As someone who is likely on the spectrum, they can tell you are… off, in some way. I think we trigger some sort of anti-sociopath response in people that just makes everyone who doesnt take the time to know you, just feel uneasy. Coupled with the fact that we are anti-social. Theyre going to get the feeling like you intend harm, emotionally or physically.
People have litterally told me, “I thought you hated me” or “youre allright, I thought you were an asshole”. The reality is I do not want to be here and Id rather be anywhere else. Coworkers try to “break up the routine” and have a chat. But when my schedule is thrown off, i go home later, I eat later, I have less me time, I sleep less, and I blame them.
All that being said, Ive come to realize that being “in tune” with coworkers IS part of any job. You dont have to like them, but smiling at them, holding doors, offering help, making jokes, and being generally upbeat improves overall efficiency. It takes no time at all, and It will keep people from feeling like they need to "confront"you to get a feel for who you are. Its stupid but its how they feel “safe”.
If youre busy, politely dismiss conversations and move on. If you cant thats on you, If they get upset/pushy its on them. For being more friendly, I find that watching TV shows about social groups and structure helps alot. Personal favorites include “The Good Place”, “Community”, “Star Trek”, “Golden Girls”. I cant think of more off the top, but maybe lemmy can help add some that resonate with you.