A while back I was thinking about how some people seem to make use of a social fabric that they use to communicate with the world around them. To me, it explained a basic theory of why they seem so much more at ease in their own skin. It dawned on me this morning, that it doesn't necessarily come down to particular personality traits, psychology or some mystical understanding, as much as it does openness. Being open allows others into your space.
Of course it makes sense, and is completely obvious, you need oxygen to ignite and maintain a flame.
Yesterday I found myself wishing that I could feel more involved in social situations I find myself 'in'. Sadly, there is a vast difference between being present and actually being present. Most of the time, you are the only person holding yourself back from really interacting. My problem is this: as soon as another person in the room has a strong personality, it seems to act like an unconscious signal for me to make way. It's like I have single handedly invented my very own invisibility cloak.
This is something that's affected me my entire life and it's gotten to the point of no return. I'm either going to find a way to overcome this major disability, or it's going to consume me. I'm told I need to focus on good thoughts about myself, but how do I hold onto that feeling when I find myself in that situation? Any ideas? Do I fake it till I make it? I'm starting to think that's the only way, I just hope I have it within myself. I'll have to go with, 'I know I do'.
I think the key lies in allowing yourself to be and realizing that just because others take up a great deal of space, doesn't mean it diminishes your own. There is enough to go around.
Of course it makes sense, and is completely obvious, you need oxygen to ignite and maintain a flame.
Yesterday I found myself wishing that I could feel more involved in social situations I find myself 'in'. Sadly, there is a vast difference between being present and actually being present. Most of the time, you are the only person holding yourself back from really interacting. My problem is this: as soon as another person in the room has a strong personality, it seems to act like an unconscious signal for me to make way. It's like I have single handedly invented my very own invisibility cloak.
This is something that's affected me my entire life and it's gotten to the point of no return. I'm either going to find a way to overcome this major disability, or it's going to consume me. I'm told I need to focus on good thoughts about myself, but how do I hold onto that feeling when I find myself in that situation? Any ideas? Do I fake it till I make it? I'm starting to think that's the only way, I just hope I have it within myself. I'll have to go with, 'I know I do'.
I think the key lies in allowing yourself to be and realizing that just because others take up a great deal of space, doesn't mean it diminishes your own. There is enough to go around.
