What shocks or surprises you about yourself? Explain.
By now, most of you would know that I am quite an introvert. Which means I need some time alone, or some would call it "me time", to rest and recharge myself. And over time, as I grew older, what surprised me was how well I was able to cope at being alone.
Of course, I wasn't naturally like that. When I was younger, I recalled I used to feel lonely at times, and even till now, it's also a misconception that people have for extreme introverts like me. I used to have a colleague who think people who dine alone are so sad, and it's probably because they have no friends. Lol. What a weird thought.
Anyway, back to myself, how did this behaviour change over time? I think it voices down to three factors.
One, being comfortable with yourself. It's probably an age thing, as I grew up, I gradually don't feel the need to impress people, to (pretend to) talk to people whom I don't like, or attend social gatherings that I don't feel like going. It's not really being anti-social, I am just reallocating time to things that matter. It can be spending more time with loved ones and closer friends, and just getting some exercise at the gym.
Two, find your passion and chase your dreams. When I was younger, I didn't have much hobbies or passions or dreams. And in recent years, I discovered so many things that I enjoyed doing, and I found dreams to chase too! It made a big difference because it channeled my focus and energies to these areas, and they became my North Star in everything I do and every decision I made in my life. And just like what people say, when you enjoy doing something, it will never feel like working or a dreadful chore. On the contrary, it is fun and gives you excitement!
Three, have fun and enjoy your life. I recalled watching a video on social media, telling viewers to think of life as though they are on a journey to enjoy new experiences, and not so much about getting good grades or chasing the monies. It's as though you enter a theme park and your admission ticket will expire in 80 years' time. Go for the rides, go for the haunted house (if you like horror), take as many photos as you like, etc. Don't leave any regrets when you leave the theme park upon the expiry of the admission ticket. I felt this perspective changed my outlook and I became more focused on experiences and really living life and each day to the fullest.
I never thought I would ever change my mindset and behaviour when I was in my 20s, but I guess we were all innocent and naive when were young. The world is always changing, and we will all mature and adapt our thinking over time. So this was definitely a positive surprise for me, to be able to cope so well at being alone. And my final message is, being solo and alone doesn't mean loneliness!
Alright, thanks for reading! Ending off with my solo exercise/chill out session this weekend!
