A place for the foolish and gullible...
“But there is also space in this big world for a writing retreat that does things differently, understands that we are all different, and have different ways of writing, learning, and being.”
I, an autistic content writer and former PR who also copes with the compound effects of ADHD, dyscalculia, trauma, PTSD and possible BPD, say...
Umm. Almost all neurodivergent people I know require structure and purpose—a reason and an outcome. I am part of a PR and journalism industry support group for professionals with neurodivergence.
We have all had to carve out our paths to success. We have identified a lack of structure as a consensus issue in our industry.
Our brains drive us toward purpose. We need others to provide clear briefs and explanations, but those handing out the briefs often fail to articulate their needs clearly.
This lack of clarity triggers anxiety, self-doubt, and procrastination in us.
I posted a link to the Venice and Oxford retreats with just a poll, implying that I was considering them. I asked: Do these look: Good | Bad | Other, please state.
Forty-eight writers and PRs responded—forty-eight! That's an unprecedented number. More than half the group responded.
The neurodivergent PR and writing community said:
At the most positive, not one person found value in attending. At worst, they criticised it
as "ableist cosplay."
This isn't the first time we've encountered this critique of Liz, is it?
These participants are not novice journalists and PRs, Liz. They work as employed staff or regular freelance contributors for newsstand publications, national newspapers, big brands, or agencies, delivering high-quality campaigns for clients.
Liz, you said:
“But there is also space in this big world for a writing retreat that does things differently, understands that we are all different, and have different ways of writing, learning, and being. As someone who has struggled with all of those things, who understands the limitations caused by Real Life, by things like neurodivergence, trauma, self doubt, age (!) etc, I am hugely aware of the needs for space, time and doing things the way they work for each of us. I hope my writing retreats will give you the confidence, inspiration, insight, information and support that YOU need, to create your best work, to ENJOY it, and to achieve whatever you are hoping to get from it.”
I conclude:
The writers and PRs in this industry group are doers. We engage actively. We discuss our personal challenges and the broader issues in our field.
We exchange tips, advice, resources and contacts. We support and uplift each other, pulling our peers out of their darkest moments to ensure we all succeed.
And then, there are the talkers, Liz. People who only talk about action but never take any.
Liz, you represent so many like this who tarnish our industry's reputation. Please, do not afflict the neurodivergent writer and PR community with your toxic traits and excuses. We already have to work twice as hard.
If it wouldn't reflect poorly on the outstanding teaching community, I'd echo the phrase, "those who can, do; those who can't, teach."
I’m not convinced you can teach either. Sex only sells short term thrills.
See Mike and He Who Can’t Be. Both are now thriving. You were, quite literally, a hole in their lives to fill. They now fill this with purpose and meaningful relationships.
If you were anymore than just surviving, you’d be doing, not talking about doing. I’m a DV survivor, not thriver. I have mental and emotional challenges.
I see you Liz. In many ways I get you Liz. Many in the industry group would too, but you are too blinded by your own bile to see us.
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Of course she can’t
.