There’s a creature that lurks deep within the forests of the mind, a creature we all know by name but seldom speak of. It’s mysterious, misunderstood, elusive—kind of like you when you’re at that awkward family gathering, nodding along like you’re totally okay being there, when in reality, your energy is depleting faster than your phone battery on 2%. This is the journey of unmasking the Sasquatch within, discovering your true self beyond the masks we wear to blend in.
Yes, I’m talking about the Sasquatch. The cryptid, the legend, the neurodivergent mascot you didn’t know you needed.
You see, the Sasquatch is more than just a figure for conspiracy theorists and those grainy nature photos we all know are faked. No, Sasquatch is you. Or, at least, a part of you—the part that’s different, hidden, maybe even feared. The part that doesn’t always fit into the “norm,” whatever that even means. So, let’s talk about what it means to embrace your inner Sasquatch, to embrace your neurodivergent self, and to thrive in a world that’s constantly trying to shave off your fur and make you fit into a neat little human-sized box.
The Sasquatch of the Unknown
Let’s start with a fun fact: Sasquatch isn’t just hiding because it wants to. It’s out there in the wild because sometimes, it’s easier to exist in the margins where no one expects you to “blend in” or “be normal.” The forest is its safe place, its territory, where no one will ask it why it can’t make small talk or why it needs a 24-hour recovery period after socializing.
Sound familiar?
Whether you’re introverted, extroverted, or the ambivert who somehow straddles both worlds (seriously, how do you do it?), the reality is we all have parts of ourselves that feel unseen, unexplored. These are the parts that neurotypical society might call ‘strange’ or ‘awkward,’ but they’re really just parts of your Sasquatch self—the things that make you, well, you. Sometimes, this can feel like trying to navigate a forest of social expectations with a map written in a language you don’t speak. It’s confusing, exhausting, and more than a little isolating.
Strategy: Embrace the Mystery
When it comes to facing the unknown, give yourself permission to explore without needing all the answers. It’s okay to move at your own pace, gradually uncovering your strengths and unique ways of interacting with the world. Consider journaling or reflecting after social interactions—what felt right? What felt draining? Build on the experiences that leave you feeling energized and avoid those that don’t.
Masking: The Art of Sasquatch Camouflage
Of course, most of us don’t get to live in a world where we can just fully be our Sasquatch selves all the time. That’s where masking comes in—a.k.a. Sasquatch’s brilliant form of social camouflage.
You know how it goes: you’re at work, at school, or just trying to get through the checkout line without any small talk, and suddenly, you’ve morphed into someone else. You’re suppressing stimming behaviors, forcing eye contact, or pretending that the fluorescent lights above your head aren’t drilling into your brain. You smile, nod, maybe laugh on cue—and no one’s the wiser.
Except you. You’re exhausted.
Masking is survival in a world that doesn’t always feel made for you. And while it’s an incredible skill, it can also be draining, leading to what we affectionately call burnout. But here’s where the real magic happens: therapy is the space where you can learn to take off that mask—slowly, safely—and start to show the parts of yourself that have been hidden for so long. Kind of like a mythical creature emerging from the forest, but with a lot more snacks and self-compassion.
Strategy: The Unmasking Process
Unmasking doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start small by identifying safe spaces and people with whom you can be your true self. Gradually, as you feel more comfortable, allow more of your authentic self to shine through in other areas of your life. And most importantly, listen to your body. If you’re exhausted after social interactions, it’s a sign that you’re doing too much masking. Give yourself grace, and rest when needed.
Boundaries: Sasquatch Knows How to Say No
You know what else Sasquatch is good at? Boundaries. Seriously, the dude has lived for centuries without anyone getting too close. And while I’m not advocating for total isolation (though, let’s be honest, a little more alone time wouldn’t hurt), Sasquatch teaches us a thing or two about protecting our emotional space.
Setting boundaries is hard, especially if you’ve spent your life people-pleasing or trying to blend in. But let me tell you something: boundaries are your forest. They’re the space you carve out to keep yourself safe, to nurture your needs, to breathe. And if someone tells you you’re being too sensitive or too distant? Well, that’s just because they’re not used to a Sasquatch who knows how to say “no.”
Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re filters. They let in the people who are safe, the people who get you, and they keep out those who drain your energy like mosquitoes on a summer day.
Strategy: Setting Boundaries Without Guilt
Start by identifying the areas where you feel most drained. Are there specific relationships or activities that constantly sap your energy? Practice saying “no” in low-stakes situations to build your confidence. Remember, setting boundaries isn’t about pushing people away—it’s about creating a space where you can show up as your best, most authentic self.
The Struggles of the Sasquatch: Feeling Like an Outsider
Here’s a universal truth: at some point, we all feel like the Sasquatch—an outsider, lurking on the fringes while everyone else seems to have their “normal” lives figured out. Maybe it’s because of your neurodivergence, your personality, or just the way you’ve always processed the world differently.
Sasquatch knows this struggle well. Society loves to label anything different as strange, awkward, or even scary. But here’s the kicker: those differences? They’re what make you incredible. Neurodiverse minds think in ways that can’t be boxed in. Emotional sensitivity allows you to connect deeply with others. Your creativity, your unique way of solving problems, the way you experience the world—they’re all part of your Sasquatch strength.
Strategy: Reclaim Your Identity
One of the first steps to overcoming the feeling of being an outsider is to own it. Start reclaiming the parts of yourself that you’ve been told are “too much” or “weird.” Celebrate your neurodivergent strengths—whether that’s creativity, attention to detail, or the ability to hyper-focus. Surround yourself with people who see and appreciate your differences as strengths, not weaknesses.
Building Your Sasquatch Circle
While Sasquatch may be a lone wanderer in the wild, even the most elusive creatures deserve a community. You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Whether it’s finding like-minded people online, connecting with a therapist who sees and values your uniqueness, or joining a support group, building a supportive circle is key to thriving.
Your community will be the ones who cheer you on, whether you’re fully visible or still learning to emerge from the shadows.
Strategy: Seek Out Your Forest
Finding your community doesn’t have to happen overnight. Start by identifying spaces where you feel safe, whether that’s a group of friends who get you or an online forum for neurodivergent individuals. Over time, expand that circle to include others who see you, understand you, and celebrate your Sasquatch-ness.
The Power of Self-Compassion
Even the mighty Sasquatch needs rest, a safe place to retreat, and time to recover. In your own journey, remember to practice self-compassion. It’s easy to get caught up in society’s pressures to fit in, but taking a step back to care for yourself is essential.
Whether it’s through mindfulness, taking breaks, or simply telling yourself “It’s okay to be different,” self-compassion is your key to surviving and thriving.
Strategy: Daily Self-Compassion Practices
Start by incorporating small acts of kindness toward yourself daily. It could be as simple as taking a break when you feel overwhelmed or saying something kind to yourself when self-doubt creeps in. Remind yourself that you don’t have to be perfect, and that being different is part of your strength.
Celebrate Your Sasquatch Moments
Every small victory—whether it’s setting a boundary, unmasking in a safe space, or simply allowing yourself to rest—is worth celebrating. Just like Sasquatch stepping into the light for the first time, these moments matter.
Celebrate your quirks, your strengths, and your progress along the way. You’ve earned it.
Strategy: Keep a “Victory Journal”
Start a journal where you document your “Sasquatch moments”—times when you’ve shown up authentically or set a healthy boundary. These small wins build momentum and remind you how far you’ve come.
The Hero’s Journey: Embracing Your Sasquatch Self
So, where does that leave you? Well, this is where Sasquatch turns from hiding to hero. We’re talking hero’s journey territory now—cue the dramatic music.
The Sasquatch story is ultimately one of self-discovery. It’s the journey of embracing your quirks, your neurodivergence, your uniqueness. It’s the quest to understand that your mind, your emotional depth, your sensory sensitivity, and your creative ways of thinking are your superpowers, not your flaws. The world may tell you to fit in, but here’s the truth: Sasquatches were never meant to be tamed. You were never meant to be tamed.
Ready to start your Sasquatch journey? Storm Haven Counseling & Wellness is here to help you embrace your neurodiverse self, unmask, and thrive. Whether you’re looking to understand your boundaries, explore your shadow self, or just find a place where you can be fully you, we’re here for you.
Take the first step. We see you—and we’re not afraid of a little mystery.
Written by Jen Hyatt, a licensed psychotherapist at Storm Haven Counseling & Wellnessin Temecula, California.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice.