The Nine (Plus One) Neurodivergent Traits That Speak to Me (And Maybe You)

 

I recently watched the above video: 9 Weird Autistic Traits (You Didn’t Realise Were Signs of Autism!), and it was one of those moments where I got further insight into those quirks and traits I carried around for decades, wondering why I felt so different. Being AuDHD (autistic and ADHD), I don’t fully line up with every trait described, but I resonate with many (and for the ones I don’t, I’ve observed them often in the neurodivergent community). 

Here’s how the list landed for me: 

1. Forgetting to Say “Hi” Before Launching Into A Conversation 

For much of my life, I would just launch into whatever was on my mind with no preamble, no warm-up, just pure unfiltered stream-of-consciousness. If I needed to borrow a pen, why not just ask? I’ve gotten better after enough reprimands, but the "small talk greeting" is still something I have to actively remind myself to do. It’s not natural, but it’s become part of my social masking toolkit. 

2. Distinct Walk or Posture 

Apparently, I walk in a way that’s unmistakably “Christopher.” I’ve been told by many people that I have a unique stride and recognizable way of carrying myself. For a long time, I thought this was a bad thing. Now I just accept that I’m animated and expressive, and that’s how my body chooses to move through the world. 

3. Bold Hair and Clothing Choices 

I haven’t dyed my hair in decades (and now, let’s be honest, there’s not much left to dye). For years, I wore dark clothes as part of my masking strategy—I thought blending in would make life easier. But deep down, my instincts lean toward bold, colourful, and loud outfits. Lately, I’ve been embracing that part of myself a bit more. The handful of bright, playful shirts I own make me feel more “me.” 

4. Gender Nonconforming Tendencies 

This one doesn’t apply to me personally, but I’ve absolutely seen how neurodivergent spaces are often more welcoming of gender fluidity and expression. There’s something beautiful about how these communities question rigid norms and embrace authenticity in all forms. 

5. Laughing Alone and Living in My Own Head 

Absolutely. I make myself laugh constantly, whether it is writing something absurd or a random thought bouncing in my head. My inner world has always been vivid, weird, and full of wonder. Being able to slip into it is one of my favourite things. 

6. Verbal Diarrhea and Oversharing 

Hi, I’m Christopher, and I over-explain things. Whether it’s talking a mile a minute about a passion topic, giving more context than necessary, or processing ideas out loud, I’ve been known to talk at length—sometimes long past the point where most people would have wrapped it up. This also bleeds into my writing, although I eventually have time (or an editor) to make it more concise. Sometimes.

7. Rule-Breaker or Rule-Clinger (Sometimes Both) 

Here’s the contradictory part: sometimes I’m rigid about how something must be done, and other times I question why we even have that rule. I’ve been known to mismatch socks and question unspoken social customs. But I’ve also melted down when something doesn’t go “the right way.” It really depends on the day, my attachment to this routine, and how tired or overwhelmed I am. 

8. All or Nothing Social Energy 

Yep. I can be the life of the party, buzzing with excitement and engaging everyone in sight, or I can be hiding in a corner, drained and silent. I might reach out to someone 20 times in a day, or go months without initiating contact. It’s a bit chaotic, but apparently, that’s not just “a me thing.” It’s an AuDHD thing. 

9. Unique Voice or Manner of Speaking 

I’ve been told I have a distinctive voice and that I sometimes say things in very odd, Christopher-specific ways. My phrasing and cadence can be a little offbeat. Emily reminds me of this regularly. It seems like there is a reason for my mishmashing of words. 

Bonus Trait (#10, Because ADHD Always Adds a Tangent) 

One of the most telling traits of my AuDHD brain? Wildly ambitious, over-the-top ideas that ignite sudden, powerful passion—often for things that may not be entirely realistic. I used to pitch grand creative projects or world-changing plans constantly. Over time, I buried that side of myself, tired of being shut down. But I’m starting to unearth it again, even if I now preface it with, “I know this is a bit much, but hear me out…” 

If you watched the video, I’d love to know which traits you connect with? And which ones surprised you? 

Also: Yes, it’s another week without a podcast episode and no new movie reviews. I do intend to get back on track, but the next few weeks might be bumpy. We’ll see what my wonderfully unpredictable brain and life allow.