My friends often misunderstand me as unfriendly for not being as outgoing as them, especially when they are partying, a situation I am not comfortable in, how do I stand my ground without feeling left out?
Dear Reader
Oh, how this question resonated with me! “Why don’t you just let loose once, Aditi?” That’s a classic inquiry I’m confronted with when I decline offers to go out, usually to a party. So, I can confidently say, you are undoubtedly not alone in this situation.
No two individuals define fun in an identical manner; not everyone fancies loud crowds, and that is completely normal. Your preferences and your personality traits are wholly valid. Your outlook towards parties does not define you as any less fun as the next person. Avoiding settings you do not feel comfortable with absolutely does not make you unfriendly.
The tricky aspect here, however, is that your more outgoing friends, who do cherish partying and maintain active social lives, may misinterpret your personal preference for disinterest in the friendship. It becomes crucial, therefore, in order to clear up any confusions, to share your perspective with your friends to explain how you feel about such settings.
You may choose to state that you value your friendship with them but don’t care much for big parties. Perhaps, you may offer an alternative option to spend time together, one where you both feel comfortable and have an opportunity to bond. Honesty is key in such an instance, since it invariably helps steer clear of any differences in the interpretation of the situation.
Furthermore, though you may not particularly have an affinity for going out often, you may still feel left out, and boy, does that hurt! I do wish to remind you that it’s completely natural to have contradictory thoughts about the same circumstance. It helps to be patient with yourself and remember that belonging is not about forcing yourself in places that don’t suit you; it’s about building a genuine connection, which can be done in your style, too. The right friends will invariably understand and respect your choices while making sure you don’t feel excluded at all times.
Putting yourself and your preferences first is an act of individuality and strength. This world is full of unique people, and you don’t have to force yourself to change if you feel best as you are. You’re a star!
Teens! Got questions, advice to seek, or topics to discuss? 💬 Send your queries to 📩 info@electroniccitycredence.in and let your voice be heard!
Your friend
Aditi Garg
High School Student
Dear Reader
Oh, how this question resonated with me! “Why don’t you just let loose once, Aditi?” That’s a classic inquiry I’m confronted with when I decline offers to go out, usually to a party. So, I can confidently say, you are undoubtedly not alone in this situation.
No two individuals define fun in an identical manner; not everyone fancies loud crowds, and that is completely normal. Your preferences and your personality traits are wholly valid. Your outlook towards parties does not define you as any less fun as the next person. Avoiding settings you do not feel comfortable with absolutely does not make you unfriendly.
The tricky aspect here, however, is that your more outgoing friends, who do cherish partying and maintain active social lives, may misinterpret your personal preference for disinterest in the friendship. It becomes crucial, therefore, in order to clear up any confusions, to share your perspective with your friends to explain how you feel about such settings.
You may choose to state that you value your friendship with them but don’t care much for big parties. Perhaps, you may offer an alternative option to spend time together, one where you both feel comfortable and have an opportunity to bond. Honesty is key in such an instance, since it invariably helps steer clear of any differences in the interpretation of the situation.
Furthermore, though you may not particularly have an affinity for going out often, you may still feel left out, and boy, does that hurt! I do wish to remind you that it’s completely natural to have contradictory thoughts about the same circumstance. It helps to be patient with yourself and remember that belonging is not about forcing yourself in places that don’t suit you; it’s about building a genuine connection, which can be done in your style, too. The right friends will invariably understand and respect your choices while making sure you don’t feel excluded at all times.
Putting yourself and your preferences first is an act of individuality and strength. This world is full of unique people, and you don’t have to force yourself to change if you feel best as you are. You’re a star!
Teens! Got questions, advice to seek, or topics to discuss? 💬 Send your queries to 📩 info@electroniccitycredence.in and let your voice be heard!
Your friend
Aditi Garg
High School Student