I've always been really shy and socially anxious, but I have two brothers who are autistic so lately I've been wondering if I am also autistic. I go back and forth on it; some days I think I must be autistic, and other days I think I'm probably just shy with low self-esteem. I don't have any obvious sensory difficulties apart from I hate having my hair down in my face. I can be good at socialising but only if the atmosphere/vibe is right. I am always aware of being an overactive listener, nodding and smiling away rather than concentrating on what is being said. I am really good at reading people and situations, but I don't know if that is because I'm overcompensating by intellectualising social situations because I don't have the natural social skills that neurotypicals innately know and have.
Has anyone else had this dilemma of not knowing if they are autistic or shy? Did you pursue diagnosis and, if so, how did it work out?