I’d like to know how you experience life and if it’s anything like I do.

I was painfully shy as a child, “too quiet”, “too shy”, “too reserved”, “too sensitive”. I was always hyper aware and fearful of people’s judgments. To the point I tried to not take up space, tried to be invisible, felt like I was a burden. If I’m around people who knew me like that - mainly my family - if they are discouraging especially, it can cause me to regress into people pleasing and trying to be invisible again. I freeze and fawn when in danger, go totally blank when I’m put on the spot. I’ve never felt like I fit in.

Yet, I’ve never wanted to be like everyone else, style or looks, or whatever - I have always been unique in style of clothes etc.

And there’s another aide of me that is bold and adventurous, opinionated and challenging. Sometimes even charismatic and charming.

Dichotomous always. Confused a lot.

Tell me I’m not alone? Tell me how you are and feel?

————UPDATE———

You all have blown me away. I didn’t know there were so many of us...I suppose cuz we stay quiet lol.

I see you all. 💜