How An Introverted And Neurodivergent Woman Is On Her Way To Becoming Unstoppable!
- Sep 26, 2024
- 3 min read
by Julie Lavia
If you had known who I was as a child, my life growing up was not an easy journey. We can all agree that we went through struggles in our lifetime, which either made us or broke us. However, I would never have thought that my life obstacles would have brought me here to where I am sharing my story to create an impact on the world.
You see, growing up, I was super shy, introverted, and lacked a voice to speak up for myself, and as a result, I received bullying and harassment from my peers while attending school. I was also dealing with an undiagnosed intellectual disability, which turned out to be high-functioning Autism. Due to the lack of proper social skills, it was hard to relate to children my age, and I was often outcasted, not to mention that I was masking my disability in front of strangers.
The bullying continued not only in school but when I had my first job as well. It was not until I took on unreasonable stress due to working, attending university classes, and dealing with a highly demanding boss who had so many expectations. I winded up being diagnosed as well with Coronary Artery Disease at the young age of 27.
When I reached my thirties, I started to think more about my sole purpose on this earth. I used to wallow in self-pity, wondering why I had it so difficult when others had it so much easier.
There had to be a reason as to why I was put here to experience life as a neurodivergent who has a lifetime of heart disease. Then it hit me that instead of looking at it as a negative thing, I can see it as a positive influence in my life.
Firstly, I started holding myself accountable that I have mild Autism, and it will always be a part of me. I used to be ashamed of telling people that I had it because I grew up with the idea and pressure to conform with everyone else. I was bullied in elementary school for being different and not fitting in with the popular kids. This was a part of who I am, and if people were not going to accept me, that was their problem, and I would not sell myself short to be accepted.
I started to embrace my disability by giving back to organizations such as the Autism Speaks annual event that happens every year. Each year, I volunteer my services and raise money to support children with Autism. I felt great giving back to such a cause.
This newfound self-discovery led me to want to share my story with the world and become a female empowerment advocate. I wanted to help inspire other women to share their truth by amplifying their voices.
I connected with She Rises Studios, a PR marketing company representing women from all walks of life who want to elevate their brand. Since I decided to collaborate with this fantastic platform, I am releasing two books. One is a co-authored book, Becoming an Unstoppable Woman in Faith, and the other is a self-help book that guides introverted female entrepreneurs on how to show up online.
I have a show called Her Roadmap to Resiliency, which will be released on Fenix TV this year. I am also an entrepreneur who helps introverted women with visibility in their businesses.
Don't let your past life experiences define your future!
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