top of page
Writer's pictureDani Frank

7 Lessons Autism Has Taught Me About Business and Life


7 Lessons Autism Has Taught Me About Business and Life

Mental health was the reason I founded Sole Journey Wellness in 2016. After an almost decade-long career in human resources, I was beyond burnt out and a shell of a human. I had an ulcer raging in my belly and PTSD from unchecked sexual harassment flowing through my nervous system. When I left my job, I intended to heal my body and mind, not leave my career and start my own business. But after a few months of daily yoga and being with myself, I made a profound discovery: Just by openly and authentically being myself, I could change how people see themselves in their mental health and healing journey.


If I'm frank, I lost sight of breaking down the stigma of mental health for a while. After going through career coaching, I shifted the focus of my business to be more numbers-motivated. I fell into the trap of advice rooted in white supremacy and late stage capitalism. It's easy to do in today's social media landscape. Algorithm this, funnel that, here's your 6-figure blueprint blah blah blah.


Sharing heartfelt stories and lessons in mental health recovery was the cornerstone of my business. I'm returning to my roots. As an autistic woman and entrepreneur, my journey has been uniquely challenging and rewarding. Here are the 7 biggest lessons autism has taught me about business, life, and self-acceptance.


Lesson 1: Embracing neurodiversity is not just a strength, it's a superpower in entrepreneurship.


As an autistic woman, I've often felt the pressure to fit into a neurotypical model for entrepreneurs. But now, I see that my unique brain function, operating differently from most, gives me a powerful opportunity to innovate and stand out. It's not about fitting in, it's about embracing what makes me different and using it to my advantage.


Lesson 2: Compassion for my mental health is crucial.


This modern world was not designed for me, and in realizing that truth, I feel so much more compassion for my mental health. I can view my past struggles, like alcoholism, in a much kinder light, knowing I was trying to numb my overstimulated senses. I know my anxiety and depression are symptoms of trying to fit into a world that was never designed for me to thrive in. 


"Embracing my autism isn't just about accepting who I am—it's about recognizing the unique strengths it brings to my entrepreneurship. My neurodiversity isn't a limitation; it's my superpower in business and in life." – Dani Frank

Lesson 3: Moving at my own pace leads to success.


At almost 40, I can look back and see that a lot of my success comes when I am not rushed and not holding myself to a timetable created by someone else. I took time off this year, way more than I thought I would need, and it's been a big struggle for me to shift into a human being instead of a human doing. But the shift has happened, and I no longer feel unnecessary "urgency to produce."


Lesson 4: Deep empathy is a superpower.


My empathy is deep AF, and that's actually a pretty unique. My ability to understand someone else's struggles and meet them where they are is a superpower. I no longer wonder why some people can bury their heads in the sand as the world around us floods, burns down, or descends into chaos. That has nothing to do with me. I'd rather feel everything than nothing.



Lesson 5: It's more than okay to prioritize understanding relationships.


I've learned I don't owe anyone my time or energy if they're rooted in misunderstanding, being argumentative, or immediately thinking the worst of me. This includes those who perpetuate ableism or mock my mental and physical health. I've come to understand that it's not about explaining myself to these people, it's about valuing and nurturing relationships that are built on understanding and respect.


Lesson 6: Balancing extroversion and introversion is essential.


When I was a young child, I was painfully shy. I didn't want to talk to new people, so I hid behind adults to avoid interactions. Things shifted sometime in elementary school, and I never really looked back. Now that I'm removing my masks, I realize I may be extroverted, but I'm also introverted and need time and space to recharge and be alone.


Lesson 7: My unique perspective is a gift, not a limitation.


Embracing my autistic identity has allowed me to see solutions and opportunities that others might miss. Many of my peers turn to me to help them find creative solutions to things they are working on within their business or career. My neurodiversity brings creativity and innovation to my work and collaborations, enabling me to offer truly unique value to my clients and community.


In Closing...


These lessons have shaped not only how I approach my business but also how I navigate life and relationships. I've found strength, compassion, and renewed purpose by embracing my authentic self and the unique way my brain works.


To those who may see themselves reflected in these words, remember that your neurodiversity is not a weakness—it's a deep well of potential. I encourage you to embrace your unique perspective, move at your own pace, and never apologize for needing to recharge or for feeling things deeply.


As I continue on this journey of self-discovery and entrepreneurship, I'm recommitting to sharing openly about mental health and neurodiversity. Through our stories and shared experiences, we can break down stigmas and create a more inclusive, understanding world.


Here's to embracing our authentic selves and the beautiful, complex journeys that make us who we are.


1 Comment


frrmt7701
Oct 08

Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us. I applaud your honesty & the information you're willing to share with us is beyond valuable. I personally need every tool I can use trying to navigate my own uncharted 💧.

I will be waiting to see your morning routine♥️

Thank you again my friend ❤️

Francin Reynaga

Like
Dani Frank Sole Journey Yoga_edited.jpg

I'm Dani

I blend the transformative power of therapeutic yoga and career coaching to guide your toward holistic well-being and professional fulfillment. 

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
FREE RESOURCES
_edited.png

Access the free From Imposter to Empowered Bundle

Yoga for Grief 25 Minute practice.png

Access the free 25-min Yoga for Grief Class

Yoga for Grief eBook.png

Reserve Your Copy of The eBook Today

WHERE TO LISTEN

Build Your Resilience & Feel Empowered

You can tune on Apple Podcasts and Spotify - just search for "The Resilient Compass" on your desired platform or click the links below to find the show.

WAYS TO DIVE DEEPER
bottom of page