Collette Alexandria Grimes, a 28-year-old content creator, has gone viral after sharing her deeply personal decision to quit her full-time job due to the challenges of balancing work with her autism-related executive dysfunction.
In a candid Instagram post and accompanying video, Grimes opened up about her struggles with basic self-care, shedding light on an issue many neurodivergent individuals face in traditional work environments.
Grimes explained that while she has excelled professionally, her personal well-being has suffered to the point where she often forgets to complete simple daily tasks like eating, showering, or brushing her teeth.
Raised by strict West Indian parents who instilled strong hygiene habits, she disclosed that her struggles are not due to a lack of discipline but rather a direct result of her autism.
“I quit my job because I can’t take care of my basic needs and work 40 hours a week at the same time,” she shared in her emotional video. “I’ve almost been fired from every job that I’ve ever had and it’s not because I’m not smart. I actually tend to overperform in the beginning. But inevitably, I burn out once I wake up one day and realize that I haven’t taken a shower in like three weeks.”
Grimes shared further that the demands of the workplace often force her to pour all her energy into productivity, leaving her with nothing left for herself.
“It’s a form of self-sabotage to be putting so much energy into these executive functioning skills at work and not have anything left to give myself,” she explained.
While acknowledging her fears of leaving a stable job during economic uncertainty, Grimes said prioritizing her health has to become her “full-time job” if she wants to build a sustainable future.
“I was not born to raise shareholder value. I’m actually meant to live a life, and I need to learn how to be a person in order to do that,” she quipped.
Her story has resonated with thousands, sparking conversations about workplace accessibility, neurodiversity, and the unrealistic expectations placed on employees, particularly those with disabilities.
“Omggggg feel THIS!!!!! You’re not alone, bby!! Sending you so much light and love,” someone commented. Another said, “You lost me at not not bathing for three weeks, then you found me.
heal”
Many others in the comments praised Grimes for her vulnerability and for speaking on a reality that is often overlooked in discussions about professional success.
