Yeah, really good point, and I question my own diagnoses sometimes. However: I did not understand for many years why I needed to mask. I was not being contrary or looking for attention - I really did not get it.
Once you understand that neurotypicals have special needs and you must play-act to smooth things over, then you play the game.
I think your comment is very insightful. It made me think and reflect. I am not socially awkward, however: but I am autistic. I really think so. My ability to appear less so over time is my own achievement.
I think I have some kind of autism because I have been doing this social skill game for decades and still has not "clicked" with me.
It does not mean I am bad at it, it means I don't understand the rules. I can copy others people tactics and sometimes it works, but still don't know why.
Once you understand that neurotypicals have special needs and you must play-act to smooth things over, then you play the game.
I think your comment is very insightful. It made me think and reflect. I am not socially awkward, however: but I am autistic. I really think so. My ability to appear less so over time is my own achievement.