Summary

 
Being newly identified or diagnosed as autistic can bring big questions, especially about work, income, and purpose.

This guide explores what sustainable employment and meaningful activity might look like for you. It includes reflections on burnout, unmasking, and rebuilding a life that works with your needs – not against them.

Whether you’re thinking about paid work, volunteering, or a mix of both, this guide gently supports you to reflect on what you need next. There’s no rush. There’s no single path. The most important thing is building a life that’s sustainable, fulfilling, and yours.

2. Autistic People and Employment

Employment can be a big area of stress for many autistic adults. The statistics around autistic unemployment and underemployment are unfortunately high, often due to workplace discrimination, lack of adjustments, or burnout.

But being autistic does not mean you cannot or will not work. It just means that how you work—and what kind of work suits you—might be different. And that is okay.

3. Redefining What a Meaningful Life Looks Like

 
Work does not have to mean full-time employment in a traditional job. A meaningful life might include:

• • Volunteering
• • Being a carer or parent
• • Self-employment or freelance work
• • A flexible or part-time role
• • Creative or community work
• • Or any combination of the above

What matters most is that it supports your well-being and does not lead you into burnout. You deserve to feel safe and fulfilled.

4. Burnout, Boundaries & Unmasking

Many autistic adults reach a point of burnout before diagnosis or identification. Part of healing is being honest with yourself about your limits – and honouring them.

Unmasking can mean admitting:

• • “I cannot do what I used to.”
• • “I need rest.”
• • “I want to work differently now.”

That is not failure. That is self-awareness.

5. Different Paths to Purpose

 
Purpose does not have to come with a payslip.

What gives your life meaning might be:

• • Helping others
• • Creating something you love
• • Having supportive relationships
• • Making space for your well-being

Some people thrive in traditional jobs. Others do better working for themselves, or in autistic-led organisations.

You might enjoy working in short bursts, with long breaks. You might be most productive late at night, or in a quiet space.

All of these are valid.

6. Making Small, Sustainable Changes

You do not need to redesign your life overnight. You can start small.

Try asking:

• • What gave me energy in the past and what drained me?
• • Do I want to explore new options slowly, or pause and rest first?
• • What is one small change I could try to improve balance or joy?

Kindness to yourself is key. You are not behind. You are beginning a new chapter with more information and support.

7. Next Steps & Where to Get Support

You do not have to figure this all out alone. Connecting with other autistic people can make a big difference.

You will find that many others are asking the same questions you are – and are figuring it out one step at a time.

8. Key Takeaways

• • Being autistic does not mean you cannot work.
• • Burnout is real, and recovery takes time. Go gently.
• • There is no rush to “figure it all out.” Small steps matter.
• • Purpose can look different for everyone – volunteering, flexible work, creating, caring.
• • Connecting with the autistic community can help you feel understood and supported.
• • You do not have to do this alone – support is out there.

10. Watch the Embrace Autism Video: Employment & Next Steps

Related Guides