Simply put, vast success requires you be unique. If we could all do it, we'd all be rich, and then rich would be the new middle class and the dollar would be worth a nickel. Aspies are without a doubt unique, and often highly intelligent. I might think a guy who lives in a world of numbers, stock trends, and tactical strategy might almost have to have Asperger's.
Case in point: I am a consultant. This is a job that requires all kinds of social traits that waved bye bye to me when I will still a zygote. Having Asperger's, I just plain suck at reading people intuitively. I usually ignore them, but if I REALLY need something, I will study a person like it’s my only purpose in life. Every expression, every movement, every time they scratch their nose, you name it. This exercise brings me absolutely no closer to understanding what they mean or why they mean it. I haven’t a clue how they feel. I just see patterns in everything (even people) and usually can predict, albeit mechanically, what they will do next. It isn't a social event anymore, it is a game of chess.
Now, with that said, maybe he is and maybe he isn't. I don't know as I have never met the man. I am simply suggesting that having Asperger's means you are impaired in your intuitive ability to function a certain way, but it doesn't mean you can't still be effective through very unconventional means.
29 Jul 2009, 5:32 am
