As an autistic person, I’ve often found myself drawn to things others may choose to overlook. One of those lifelong fascinations has been to do with the way vehicles interact with grassed areas. This can include any marks left when tyres press into softer ground.
While it may sound niche, this interest may reflect something deeper about how neurodivergent minds work. It started in childhood. I couldn't help but have my attention drawn to muddy tyre tracks in parks on some occasions, or notice how lorries disturbed the earth during removal of materials like soil. It was details like these that sparked questions about environmental impact, pressure, and movement. Looking back now, they were blending practical observation with quiet curiosity.
Now, as an adult and, especially as a driver myself now, experiences like parking on grassy overflow fields during parkruns reawakened this interest. What had begun as discomfort shifted into careful observation. These include how tyres, including different designs, behave on both wet and dry grass, how sound and traction change, and how soil type affects surface pressure. Such moments have become windows into broader ideas, and learning and applying new knowledge. These range from soil mechanics to vehicle design, and even learning foreign languages (I now even know how to say “the car is stuck in the mud” in French).
This is more than just tyres or grass. It’s about how autistic interests can turn everyday moments into deep learning. What may seem unusual may often be a gateway to knowledge, and contribution. These are the spaces where, as I like to say, “curiosity grows and strength quietly returns.”
If this topic interests you, my full podcast episode goes into more depth. You can listen below.
Please feel free to share any of your comments, perspectives, and questions in the comments section related to it.
Introduction In my ongoing exploration of metaphors and trees, one particular beech tree holds a special place in my heart. Nestled within the grounds of my old primary school, its branches whisper stories of resilience and growth—metaphors that beautifully align with my journey on the autism spectrum. The Symbolism of Beech Trees Beech trees, with […]
Navigating school can be challenging, but for individuals on the autism spectrum, it often comes with added layers of complexity. In this podcast episode, I share a deeply personal journey from my school years, offering a glimpse into life through an autistic lens. Drawing inspiration from the BBC series Inside Our Autistic Minds, I explore […]
Job interviews can be daunting, especially for autistic individuals who may face unique challenges in the process. In this episode, I discuss strategies that can empower autistic candidates to navigate interviews with confidence and success. I highlight the difficulties of non-verbal communication, such as eye contact, which is often expected but can feel unnatural for […]
