I Don't Work Here

Life is so strange I swear sometimes I just want to exist anonymously. I have a very good friend that assures me that I'm actually good company. While I still feel this isn't true; I do make an effort to leave the house for stuff other than work. After having a discussion with my therapist it's more nuanced than that. I want to do my hobby/travel/work, and blend into the freaking background. The appreciation is great for a job well done, but you know what's better? When people just let me exist without pointing out how different I am or how unique my methods or reactions are. Some compliments feel like an effort to point this out. That's a me problem I'm working on.

At the same time, I'm noticing how much minutiae I'm have to actively to block or filter out to exist in peace. I want to disappear into the background, but at the same time I don't want you to walk around with spinach in your teeth or a bat hanging in the cave (nasal boogers). I'm not sure where this talent for detail stems from. I suspect my observation skills have probably been honed over the years by the military and coaching, but the foundation of these skills might stem from my autism if I believe my therapist.

Another friend suggested that it is because of my observation skills that I accidentally/subconsciously invite strangers to ask me for assistance in places where it's obvious I don't officially belong or work at. I'm not known to hide my expressions or judgement well. Without fail leaving my apartment opens me up to a variety of requests for assistance. Although, sometimes I freely give it when someone looks utterly defeated or is in apparent peril. I really like minding my own business, but if it's raining and you have no idea how to fix a flat, I will stop and help. If you drive a vehicle regularly, please learn how to change a flat. My goofy ass may not be nearby to help you.

But at a store or a shop, there's a uniform for people that work at those places. They are paid and more qualified to answer your questions than I am. I obviously don't work here since I have no nametag, no vest or apron so why do strangers ask me for help?