There’s a moment—rare, fleeting, almost sacred—when the curtain closes, the lights dim, and the performance ends. It’s then we catch a glimpse of truth: people stop acting and simply become themselves.

Much of life feels like a staged performance. We rehearse lines, wear costumes of conformity, and nod on cue. We perform because society expects us to play roles we’ve never auditioned for—and yet, beneath it all, we quietly yearn for authenticity.

Masking Isn’t Just for Autistic People—It’s for Everyone

For autistic people like me, masking isn’t just a social skill—it’s often survival. We quickly discover that authenticity isn’t always safe. We adapt, we mimic, we act. But here’s the revelation I’ve found: everyone masks. Not just autistic folks. Everyone around me, in some way or another, is putting on an act.

The main difference? Some people don’t realize they’re performing.

For a long time, I assumed I was uniquely burdened with this exhausting performance. Yet, the more honest conversations I have, the clearer it becomes: everyone wears masks. In quiet, heart-to-heart moments, these masks slip, revealing vulnerability, uncertainty, and genuine human truths.

It’s eye-opening to see that the world isn’t full of people who’ve mastered life while you’re scrambling behind. Instead, it’s filled with actors in roles they never consciously chose, hoping no one notices when they stumble over their lines.

When the Script Runs Out

Life, unlike theater, doesn’t provide cues or directors who yell “cut.” We simply improvise. When our scripts run dry, authenticity steps in, often messy, hesitant, but beautifully real. Those moments—unscripted, unpolished—are where meaningful connections and genuine experiences truly happen.

Creating Real Moments

So how can we invite more authenticity into our lives? Perhaps we start by dropping our own masks first. Instead of waiting for others, maybe we become the ones brave enough to say, “I don’t have all the answers,” or admit we’re struggling, confused, or afraid.

When we embrace vulnerability, we open the door for others to do the same. Life becomes richer, deeper, and more meaningful—not through perfect performances but through genuine, unfiltered interactions.

So let’s step off the stage, set aside our scripts, and embrace life beyond the performance. Because that’s where real connection, real beauty, and real humanity thrive.

Stay real, stay curious, stay you.

I’m Oddly Robbie.