On what subject(s) are you an authority?

You know when someone asks you a question and your brain just stops working for a second? That was me when I read:

“On what subject(s) are you an authority?”

I blinked. I blinked again.

Authority? Me?

Is this about the time I told my dog I was the boss of the house? Because even she didn’t believe me.

Before I could even attempt an answer, I had to Google what the word meant. (Shoutout to whoever invented search engines — you’re the real MVP.) Turns out, being an authority means you know a lot about something — like, expert-level. People trust you. They might even ask for your advice.

So after recovering from the shock that this wasn’t about wearing a uniform or yelling “Order in the court!”, I started thinking.

What do I know a lot about?

Well…

✅ I’m an Authority On:

1. Living Life Differently

Thanks to cerebral palsy, my life comes with its own plot twists and creative solutions. I’ve learned how to adapt, laugh through frustration, and still find ways to do things — even if it takes a bit of inventiveness (and sometimes duct tape).

2. Making People Laugh at Awkward Moments

If I had a pound for every time I turned a hospital visit or physio session into a stand-up routine, I’d probably own a yacht. I believe humour is a survival tool — and I’m basically a ninja with it now.

3. Tea Drinking (Professional Level)

Ask me about the best biscuit for dunking. I dare you. I’m basically the Mary Poppins of tea time — always prepared, always opinionated.

4. Spotting a Bad Vibe From 100 Yards Away

Whether it’s a dodgy situation, a suspicious side-eye, or someone pretending to be nice, my radar is elite. Years of dealing with people in and out of medical spaces have sharpened my sixth sense.

5. Making Adaptations Work in Real Life

From adapted PE games to navigating buses that weren’t exactly built with accessibility in mind — I know what works and what’s just there for show. If you need advice on how to actually live in a world not built for you, I’ve got you.

So… Am I an Authority?

At first, I thought I wasn’t “qualified” to call myself one. But then I realised: your life, your journey, your experience — all of that counts.

I may not have a PhD (yet), but I’ve got wisdom in areas you can’t study from a textbook. And sometimes, the best authorities are the ones who had to live the lesson, not just learn it.

So next time someone asks me what I’m an authority on, I won’t panic. I’ll just smile and say:

“Me. I’m an authority on me. And I’m not too shabby, thanks very much.”

Want to find out what you’re an authority on? Start by asking yourself:

✔️ What have I lived through?

✔️ What do people come to me for?

✔️ What do I know better than I think I do?

Just don’t forget to Google the word first — you know, just in case.

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