I have worked in sales/retail/and customer service since I was 16 (11 years!!) and I have found that about 99.95% of the time I have a work mode where I'm higher functioning that my disorder I feel like.. and I just have my work face and work thoughts.. and like you said.. so focused on whats outside and just what you have to do, that you don't put too much in trying to interpret people's reaction. One good thing about reatil in my opinion, which is also the worst thing, if someone has a problem they'll tell you! haha.. and if they don't tell you... it isn't your problem! Maybe just stay away from a retail position for now where you need to figure out what people want from you. I work in a heath insurance call center for medicare subscribers and it's hard to get people to tell you what they want sometimes.. cuz they don't know themselves.The anger and agression I am faced with from customers sometimes actually makes me laugh/.and I hate to admit it but I kinda get off on being above the **** and nonsense and illogical arguements and swearing... Its some sweet solace holding the high ground..
That's how I deal with it.. I get enjoyment out of providing service -cutting through the idocy and ignorance- and solving the issue professionaly. But thats just me. Long story short - It hasn't kept me from working in face to face roles with customers.