”Hobbies include collecting themed items and objects, engaging in creative and artistic pursuits, playing sports, or pursuing other amusements. Participation in hobbies encourages acquiring substantial skills and knowledge in that area”.

Wikipedia

I have a range of hobbies, some more specific than others and some that have progressed over the years. These activities allow me to express my personality and the excitement I find in them, it allows me to step out of my comfort zone and almost feel ‘normal’. This then allows me to recognise ‘special interests’ I have in specific categories.

Unfortunately before Autism was properly understood, interventions for Autism have tried to limit ‘these interests’ or have used them as a form of good behaviour to those who behave properly. Now in the current day and age, many Autistic individuals have considered these ‘special interests’ to be an important strength for themselves and a great stress reliver. Allowing an individual to peruse their interests, encourages them to become a better version of themselves and to potentially create a career path on that interest, if they are that ingrained into it.

Being able to have an interest in anything will always enhance skills in day to day life. Social skills can be gained from interests and hobbies and can even create a special niche of friends who have the same interests as yourself. This is very important for anyone, to be able to gain friends who share a liking to something you like. By incorporating ‘special interests’ with friends, this can reduce anxiety and further improve social interactions.

I can say from this, that my confidence has boosted significantly by making friends, talking about specific interests and hobbies. You don’t necessarily have to be able to make friends in person, being able to do this online is another option, but it is encouraged to have some physical companionship in your life.