Feeling a bit lost with my role
I'm having a year 'off' of starting new and challenging projects and work. I like the idea of helping people, but I suffer from so much anxiety around people that I have decided to have a full break this year.
Sometimes I think I should withdraw from situations that involve lots of people permanently, and just turn inward to more creative things in my spare time, and accept that busy, social activities can't be a part of myself if I want to stay healthy.
But then I feel like it would be great to do more and challenge myself to help others. I think I could join a charity and work with them, or start a local community project for a good cause. I find these things so stressful but I feel like helping to make the world a better place is really important...
Does anyone else feel like they can't choose between more introvert activities and actively getting out there and helping others?
@TaoistDragon88 You're not alone in this 🤍 and I hope your break brings you peace and clarity. Sending lots of love to you! ❤️❤️
Thanks, it's currently bringing me turmoil and a sense of isolation! But it's just the start of the year, I think it will be an important one for me in the long run.
I can relate to a lot of what you’re expressing. It can feel so overwhelming having this strong urge to help others but feeling held back by anxiety or the concern over how it will affect us mentally and emotionally.
It’s important to recognize and appreciate how you’re processing your feelings and taking the time you need to really ensure you’re keeping yourself healthy.
How does that old saying go? Something like, “you can’t pour from an empty cup”? It’s totally true. If you’re feeling stressed or pressured to help others while still working through getting yourself healthy, it could hurt you more in the long run and even potentially impact those you’re wanting to help by not being able to provide the type of support you’d be able to otherwise.
Being introverted and working through anxiety can be extremely isolating. Try to remember to be kind to yourself. Take this time to rest, recharge, and find things that fulfill you and make you happy.
You can still take a step back and withdraw in whatever way that helps you. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing - you can try to find a comfortable balance between complete isolation and joining a charity or taking on a big role within the community. Even coming here and sharing your thoughts and feelings (as you did) is a great way to stay connected without overwhelming yourself 💜
Sending you so much peace, love, and strength, @TaoistDragon88!
@ThirteenHearts
It's really nice to hear you can relate and to hear that it's ok to step back. I seem to be surrounded by people always charging into the fray while I sit here being 'overly sensitive'.
I am learning to appreciate my own qualities but it's harder on some days.
Thank you for your words of encouragement :)