Asperger’s Experiences & Personal Growth: Stephen’s Evolution

Unlocking Potential Through Curiosity and Inquiry

• Stephen McHugh • Episode 36

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Curiosity isn't just a trait; it's a transformative tool. Join me, as I recount my journey growing up on the autism spectrum and how the simple act of asking myself questions has fundamentally reshaped my life. From struggling to understand social cues and figurative language to mastering effective communication, I share the personal milestones that have helped me thrive. Learn how focusing my curiosity on topics of genuine interest has not only improved my language skills, but also enabled me to form meaningful connections and succeed in collaborative projects.

In this episode, I delve into how questioning can deepen our understanding of complex subjects like astrophysics and ecology. Ever wondered about the roles of dark matter and dark energy in the universe's expansion, or why grass grows differently in various park areas? By exploring possible solutions to these questions, I illustrate how a curious mind can lead to groundbreaking insights and critical thinking. You'll also gain practical tips on consulting diverse sources to develop a well-rounded perspective. Tune in to discover how fostering a habit of asking yourself questions and exploring answers can make a profound impact on your personal and professional life.

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Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Stephen McHugh:

Hello everyone and welcome to another episode of the Stephen's Evolution podcast. I'm Stephen McHugh, your host, and I'm glad to have you join me for this latest episode. As someone living on the autism spectrum, there have been times when I've faced numerous challenges and triumphs. Throughout my journey, that includes facing challenges and overcoming them, helping me along the way in my evolution. In this podcast, I aim to share about all those experiences and the strategies that I believe have helped me along the way. In this episode, I'm going to dive into a topic that's been of great interest to me for a long time. It is to do with the power of asking questions. More specifically, it's going to be to do with asking myself questions about any topics and subjects that may pique my curiosity. This, I believe, has played an important role in my development, especially regarding the improvement in my language and communication skills. But firstly, let me take this opportunity to tell you a bit more about my experiences on the autism spectrum growing up.

Stephen McHugh:

One thing I found difficult was forming friendships. There were times when I found navigating social situations both confusing and overwhelming. In addition, there were times when I would ask inappropriate questions, not fully appreciating the social norms. Plus, I had difficulties reading various forms of body language and voice tones of others. These social cues seemed to come naturally to others, whereas to me it could be like trying to learn a foreign language. I also took a rather literal and precise view of language, which added another layer of complexity to my interactions. Figurative language, like idioms, took extra time. Trying to understand sarcasm also took longer. Overall, my language ability affected my ability to grasp new concepts and apply new knowledge swiftly. These challenges I had in understanding language and communication led to my weaknesses in my interactions and overall social skills.

Stephen McHugh:

In this particular episode, I aim to discuss how the simple, yet powerful technique of asking myself questions and challenging myself to answer them has played an important role in my evolution on the autism spectrum. I'll share how this method has helped me to not only improve my language and communication skills, but also to think more critically and understand the world around me more easily.

Stephen McHugh:

And now let's dive into how asking myself questions and exploring them has helped to shape my journey and how it could make a difference in yours too. Let's get started.

Stephen McHugh:

Now, let's delve a bit deeper into the specific language and speech development challenges I've faced over time,, why overcoming them has been very important for me when me. I When was young and growing up. up, one of of most significant hurdles I faced was trying to understand what somebody was asking me to do. This was particularly true when it came to applying new knowledge, concepts and ideas. This was evident in my schoolwork. Instructions that may have seemed more straightforward to my classmates could often leave me puzzled, struggling to grasp and apply them to specific problems outlined. This would make academic tasks more challenging, and it would often leave me feeling frustrated.

Stephen McHugh:

One of important challenge for me was trying to figure out what questions may have been appropriate to ask when interacting with other people. This can include times when there have been moments where I could have asked something and not realized it might offend or confuse others. Navigating these social intricacies, including trying to understand various forms of body language, voice tones and other social cues, felt like I was trying at times to work out a complicated and ever-changing puzzle. Taking literal views of complicated forms of language like idioms and metaphors, added another layer of complexity. Idioms and other forms of figurative speech I found particularly challenging. For instance, hearing someone say, "cost an arm and a leg" when talking about the cost of something was bewildering to say the least, until I learned it was a way of saying that something cost a lot of money. These literal interpretations would often lead me to misunderstanding things and make communication that bit more challenging.

Stephen McHugh:

Trying to understand and overcome these challenges has been incredibly important for several reasons. Firstly, it has helped me in forming friendships. Being able to communicate more effectively and understanding social cues I found, is key to making connections with others. Looking back, I believe it has made an important difference in my personal interactions. In the past, working on group projects I would find daunting, because I would struggle at times to get my ideas across clearly. By improving my communication skills, this has enabled me to contribute more effectively and confidently in these collaborative settings. As time went on, this improvement, I believe, has also been vital in sharing my experiences through my blog and podcast. By being able to express myself clearly and engagingly, it is allowing me to connect with a broader audience, sharing insights and strategies in relation to my lived experiences that have helped me, and could potentially help others on a similar path to me.

Stephen McHugh:

Additionally, overcoming all these challenges has allowed me to put my creative mind to more use. I have had numerous ideas for stories and creative projects where I can now express myself more clearly and effectively. Looking at this, the way I see it is, it not only serves as a creative outlet, but also as another means to further develop my language and communication skills. It's been a transformative journey which continues to evolve, and I'm excited to share more about the strategies that have helped me, and continue to help me along the way. Let's now explore one such strategy in detail, the power of asking yourself questions and exploring the answers yourself, from my point of view, that is.

Stephen McHugh:

And now here we are, we find ourselves in the main part of this episode, the questioning technique. This strategy has been very important for me, certainly in terms of aiding me in my improvement in my communication and language skills, and deepen my understanding of various subjects and topics.

Stephen McHugh:

The first step in the technique is to find topics and subjects that are of genuine interest to me. This could be anything from finding intriguing articles in books, and also in various websites, and all the way to breaking news stories. Whenever something from such sources piques my curiosity, I make a note of it and prepare to explore it further, and engage with the material the printed material, that is. I take time to pause so that I can take more time to process the information. What I find here is this deliberate approach, helping me to fully appreciate and understand what I'm learning, rather than just simply skimming through it. By slowing down, I can absorb the details, allowing me to think more critically about the content.

Stephen McHugh:

Logical thinking, I found, plays a crucial role in this process. I combine new information from relevant sources with facts I may already know, and weigh these against any material I may have already engaged with. This, I found, can help me to build a more comprehensive understanding, and see how new knowledge can fit into my already existing framework. I also like to think back to any teaching techniques that may have benefited me the most in the past, for example, breaking down more complicated concepts into smaller and more manageable chunks, or even using visual aids to better understand abstract ideas. By applying these techniques to my self-guided learning process, I find it easier to grasp new concepts and retain information more easily more easily.

Stephen McHugh:

Interestingly, spending more time outdoors, in nature, can also aid in this technique. Being outdoors provides me a tranquil setting that can encourage reflection and deeper thinking. It's a great way to clear my mind, be away from the distractions of everyday life and focus on the questions I'm asking myself at the given moment. By combining these methods finding interesting topics, taking time to process information, applying logical thinking, recalling effective teaching techniques and embracing the calmness of nature, I can explore my curiosity in a more structured and meaningful way. This questioning technique, I found, has not only enhanced my understanding of various subjects and topics, but I believe it's also helped me to significantly improve my ability to communicate and connect with other people, and the world in general.

Stephen McHugh:

Now that I have given you an overview of the questioning technique, I'm going to delve into some practical steps and real-life challenges of where I've used it, and also where it has worked for me most effectively. And now I'm going to talk about how I implement the questioning technique, along with some real life examples that illustrate the impact it has on my learning and understanding. In implementing this strategy, the first step I take is to note what sparks my interest in the first place and any resulting questions about how or why something occurred the way it did. For instance, I have always had a strong interest in science related topics, especially astronomy. I have often found myself wondering about various scientific phenomena. For me, this curiosity has led me to asking questions at times, and I've also tried to make predictions based on facts I may already know in combination with the way I think, which can be in combination with my logical thinking sometimes. I'm going to now share a couple of examples, with the aim of showing you how this works in practice.

Stephen McHugh:

One subject area that has always fascinated me is the possible fate of the universe. I've always loved pondering about how various factors, and how they might influence its fate in the future. For instance, the fate of the universe could be determined by the amount of dark matter contained in it. Dark matter interacts primarily through gravity, and if there is enough of it, this might cause the universe to contract. On the other hand, there is another mysterious force driving the acceleration of the universe's expansion. It is known as dark energy.

Stephen McHugh:

Despite the fact that little seems to be known about dark energy, by combining these concepts with what we may all understand about the universe can allow me to make educated predictions. There are times when I find myself questioning how much dark matter does it really contain, and how does dark energy influence the rate at which it may expand? What I find here is that this kind of thinking can not only satisfy my curiosity, but also help me to develop a more in-depth understanding of astrophysics.

Stephen McHugh:

Another example I find, can come from the times when I spend time in nature. I find this not only relaxing but also intellectually stimulating. Whenever I'm walking through a local park, in the more open areas of the park there's plenty of grassland. But when I go into more shaded areas, such as under trees, what I notice is significantly less grass and more in the way of patches of soil. Such an observation here often makes me wonder why such differences exist. Here I ask myself questions like why does the grass grow abundantly in the open areas but not under the trees? One possible explanation I can come up with, looking at the size of trees, it can be logical to assume that they'll have extensive root systems to help them be more anchored into the ground. And with their extensive root systems, this can help them to be better at competing for important nutrients and water, leaving less for the grass. In addition, the shade provided by the tree canopy can limit the amount of sunlight reaching the ground. This is crucial for grass and any other plant and vegetation growth. Sunlight is used by plants in a process called photosynthesis to make food, of which it can be used for growth. That's one thing. All these questions and logical deductions I find help me to connect my observations with broader ecological principles and enhance my understanding of environmental science and plant biology.

Stephen McHugh:

What I have found here is, by implementing the questioning technique in all these ways, has been incredibly interesting and, at the same time, rewarding, as I continuously ask myself questions about things that intrigue me. What I find is it helps to keep my mind more in tune with what's going on around me and more active. The method not only helps me to learn new information, but also strengthen my ability to apply new knowledge in various ways and contexts. When I'm curious about something, what I start by doing is, I jot down the questions. For instance, I could write what factors might affect the growth of grass in different environments, or how might dark matter and dark energy influence the fate of the universe.

Stephen McHugh:

After that, the next step is for me to dive into research, using relevant books, scientific articles and any trusted websites or any trusted YouTube channels to find any easy to understand solutions. During this process, I always make the time to pause frequently. This can allow me to fully process and reflect on any new information I may come across. What I find is, by combining new knowledge with what I may already know, I find that I have a logical mind to a degree. The way I put this to use is to weigh different pieces of information. This approach, I find, helps me to form well-rounded conclusions and meaningful predictions. Additionally, what I like to try and think back to and try and recall are what teaching strategies were most effective, including breaking down more complex topics into more simpler and understandable parts, thus making the learning and understanding process more manageable.

Stephen McHugh:

By being out in nature, this can provide a peaceful setting for this questioning process. It's amazing how a simple walk in the park can spark a multitude of questions, thus leading to a deeper appreciation of the natural world. By applying this questioning technique, what I find is it can enhance my understanding of many various subjects and how they have significantly improved my understanding, language and communication skills. This method, I find, can be effective in encouraging continuous learning and critical thinking. Both of these have been invaluable in my personal and intellectual growth. Next, we'll explore the benefits of this technique in more detail where, in the forthcoming section, I talk about how you can start implementing it in your own ways.

Stephen McHugh:

And now that we've explored the implementation of the questioning technique and having seen some real life examples of how I've put it into use, we're going to now go deeper into the many benefits I see from this approach in terms of what it can offer. for

Stephen McHugh:

For me. one One of the most important advantages of the questioning technique that I have described that has worked for me is that I have found it has encouraged me to look at things from different angles. I have always been keen on looking at things from different angles. What I have found is, whenever I have asked myself a question about a topic, I find myself naturally pushed to consider various perspectives. What I have found here is this habit can foster some degree of flexibility and bring an openness to a broader range of ideas. This, for me, has been incredibly enriching, both intellectually and personally. One of the benefits I have found is to consult multiple sources of information. By doing this, I can sometimes find certain explanations easier to understand than others. This comparative approach, I find, not only deepens deepen my understanding, but it can also equip me for strategies to simplify more complex ideas I may come across again in the future. You might even discover ways to explain certain concepts more clearly to others and enhance your own language and communication skills.

Stephen McHugh:

This questioning technique, I've also found, can train your eye for detail and help to develop sound research skills. By consistently asking and seeking answers to any questions you may ask yourself, I have found that it's possible to become more adept at identifying key information, scrutinizing small details and discerning credible sources. These can be crucial skills that can, in time, benefit you in various academic and professional settings. Moreover, what I found is by engaging in this method, you can open the doors to understanding how others may process information. By exploring the different ways in which things are explained, along with different perspectives, one can gain insights into diverse approaches. This can not only broaden one's knowledge, but it can also enhance your empathy and ability to communicate with people who may think differently and in a wide variety of ways. In terms of personal growth, the questioning technique I've used for myself has significantly contributed to me developing more critical thinking skills.

Stephen McHugh:

As I continue to practice formulating my own questions, seeking answers and evaluating information, I believe I can continue to sharpen my ability to analyse and synthesize data. To analyse and synthesise data this continuous process of questioning and reflection is, and continues to be, a cornerstone of critical thinking for me, and helped me to become a more insightful and discerning individual. For me, the questioning technique has been opening up, and continues to open up a world of possibilities. It not only continues to enhance my understanding of various and numerous subjects, but also continues to improve my ability to communicate more complex ideas more clearly and effectively. The habit I have of asking myself questions, I find, can keep my mind engaged, encouraging continuous learning by fostering flexibility in thinking, developing research skills, enhancing critical thinking. I believe this questioning technique has become an invaluable tool in my personal and intellectual growth.

Stephen McHugh:

If you're looking to expand your knowledge, improve your communication language and enhance your critical thinking, why not give the technique of incorporating this questioning into your daily routine? Up next, I aim to discuss and give you some practical tips regarding how you can get started with this method.

Stephen McHugh:

And now that we've covered the benefits of the questioning technique, I'm going to now give you some practical tips that I believe can help you get started and make the most out of this method..

Stephen McHugh:

Firstly, what I want to stress to you here is that it's essential to start with easy questions. It's not necessary to dive into more complex subjects and topics straight away. In fact, you can simply start with everyday observations and curiosities. For example, have you ever wondered why some objects may float and others sink in water? This can be a good place to get started. You can do a simple experiment here. Why not fill a bucket and gather a variety of objects, both light and heavy. Ideally, you should begin by placing the lighter objects, like a small piece of wood or a plastic bottle cap, in the water. Notice how they may float. And then afterwards why not find heavier objects, like stones, and metal spoons. You should notice that these objects may sink.

Stephen McHugh:

Such a simple experiment like this can demonstrate that lighter objects are less dense than heavier ones, which greatly affects buoyancy. By asking why this happens and seeking answers, you find this can spark your curiosity and lead you onto a deeper understanding of concepts like density and buoyancy.

Stephen McHugh:

Persistence is another important thing to consider when asking yourself questions, and you're trying to explore answers. Don't be discouraged if the answers are not obvious to you straight away. Keep searching until you come across an explanation that makes the most sense to you, or you can wait until you feel you've gathered enough information to satisfy your understanding and come to a meaningful conclusion. The process of seeking answers is, I found, valuable in itself. This can encourage more in the way of critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Stephen McHugh:

One effective way to persist in your search can be by using a variety of resources. One obvious source can be the internet, which, for me, is a treasure trove of information, and there are countless websites to explaining various concepts in more detail. Certain YouTube channels can be also fantastic and valuable resources offering visual and interesting explanations that can make even the most complex ideas easier to grasp. Books can also be another excellent resource, whether it's a library book, an e-book or a book you've already had for many years. Reading these can allow us to dive into subjects and explore them at our own pace and in our own time. Always look to choose a book on topics that may interest you and from there, you can use them to satisfy your curiosity.

Stephen McHugh:

To recap, start with simple questions and use everyday observations to spark your curiosity. Aim to be persistent in your search for solutions and don't give up until you believe you have found an explanation that makes the most sense to you. Utilize a variety of resources, including internet websites, YouTube channels and books, to gather information, compare it and which may, in time, may lead to a deeper understanding of a concept that may be of interest to you. By following these tips, I believe you can effectively incorporate the questioning technique into your daily routine. What I believe here is not only can this technique enhance your knowledge and understanding, but it has the potential to improve critical thinking, language and communication skills.

Stephen McHugh:

And now, as I wrap up this episode, I'm going to summarise the key points that have been covered. I started by discussing the power of the questioning technique. Looking back over time, this has been a strategy that has helped me to significantly improve my language and communication skills and deepen my understanding of various topics, along with applying my knowledge to various situations and questions that I have asked myself. I have shared some personal examples, and experiences, and real life examples, aiming to illustrate how asking yourself questions and exploring different perspectives can lead to meaningful insights. I also delved into the benefits of this technique, including developing flexibility in the way you may think, develop research skills and enhance your critical thinking.

Stephen McHugh:

Finally, I gave some practical tips for some of you to perhaps take on board and get started with your own questioning technique, emphasising the importance of starting with simple questions, being persistent and comparing information from a variety of resources. What I encourage you to do here is, feel free to adapt these techniques in ways that may work best for you. Everyone's journey is unique, and finding your own ways and approaches to learning and questioning can be very rewarding. I'm open to hearing your experiences or any questions you might have in relation to this episode. You can text the podcast using the link in the description. Additionally, you can connect with me on Twitter by finding a link to my Twitter account at the footer of my website, . By sharing your stories, experiences and questions, you can help to create a community of learners and thinkers, and I'm always open and eager and looking for opportunities to engage with you.

Stephen McHugh:

Thank you so much for listening today, if you've made it this far. If you've enjoyed the episode, why not consider subscribing to the podcast? You can do this by visiting a link close to the footer of the home page of my website . By clicking on this link, you'll be taken to a form where you can sign up for news regarding newly released episodes, and other podcast-related news and updates. And also, why not take the time and a moment to rate and review the podcast on directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podchaser, and Podcast Addict. Any feedback can help me to reach more people who might benefit from these discussions and strategies. Once again, thank you for joining me on this journey. Keep asking questions, stay curious and continue exploring the world around you. Until next time, take care and, above all, keep learning.