Hannah's blog

Yep. That's right. I am an autistic dog groomer! I was diagnosed at a fairly young age, and was determined to become a veterinarian. I have loved, and will probably always love MOST animals. (I am terrified of most snakes, and most rodents. Don't know why...) I am not on the path to be a veterinarian anymore, but I have been grooming dogs for a while now, and wanted to share some  perspective that I gained this past month that that made it kind of difficult for an aspie like me, and how I have realized that I NEED TO ASK FOR HELP. (us aspies are stubborn, am I right?) Over the past few years, I have been in the "corporate" world of grooming salons, but I also have experience in the small shops as well. However, with how things work, I need to be in the "corporate" side, and let me tell you. It is HARD. It is far more customer service based on my end than it would be, say, at a small shop where you have receptionists. As someone who has such bad anxiety and...

I realize it has been a while since I've really written something substantial on my blog, so here goes it. I have had some personal struggles that I have had a hard time with. My main struggle has and will probably always be with my social interaction at work, at home, at really anything. My eye contact is not great, the things I say may not be the best in every situation, and generally talking to people is not a strong suit for me. I currently work for a large corporation where I groom dogs as a full time stylist. I honestly love it. Really, I do. Although it is mandatory to talk to people, answer phones, try to finish dogs on time, and so much more, I have gratitude for working for them. Without them, I would not have the experience, the team, and most importantly, for me, I have insurance. That, to me, is important because I am getting the help I so desperately I have needed the last six months of my life. I am in Neuro feedback, which I'll write a separate post about ...

I sat down today after my vacation to read an article about employment, and it caught my attention immediately! I read it over at 'The Mighty' website, and I linked it right here for you guys to read if you want:  https://themighty.com/2017/09/tips-for-hiring-an-employee-with-autism/ What got to me in the article is that less than a third of people who have Asperger's are employed. That does not surprise me because it took me forever to find a job. When I did get my first job, I had a very difficult time, and in fact still, do struggle at my current job. It is difficult because of the smells, the noise, and the constant talking to people that really drain me. I am very sensitive to lights, smells, people and noises, and grooming dogs is probably not the best environment for someone with Asperger's. Could I be in a better grooming environment with my diagnosis? I am sure, but I have yet to find one. One thing I feel like that could have helped me from the very be...