Hello @crypto.piotr,
Thank you for your heart-felt and very candid post. Everyone has their own unique journey in life. You were blessed to experience different cultures for a significant amount of time, respectively. It's interesting how life can show you a certain way of living and then later thrust you into a completely different lifestyle. With each experience you've evolved whether you notice it or not.
I'm sure when you initially traveled there was a period of adjustment, but with time you found your groove. When you go back home to Europe it will be a similar situation in regards to adjusting to the daily living in your hometown. At first, even though it was place you grew up in, it will be challenging. What I would suggest is to take things in stride. Like that older gentleman you mentioned earlier about the trash incident. Sometimes, no matter how small or big the situation is, we take it personally. I mean who wouldn't, right? It can be difficult to ignore the brashness or rudeness of people, but what I have found helpful in that situation is to 1)Tell myself "It's not personal" (More times than not I have to say that to myself multiple times and try to genuinely feel it) 2) I try not to judge the other person, because everyone has their own life’s journey and you never know what events led them to be the way they are. Which ties into the “Don’t take it personal”. 3) “Let it go” like Elsa says in Frozen, lol :D and last but not lease 4) Reciprocate with kindness. Crazy right?....kindness? Yes, spread positivity and good vibes. Be your own beacon for optimism in the world.
I’ve always found myself gravitate to people who seem to be considered “outsiders” or not part of the “in-crowd”. One of my dearest and oldest friends is a serious introvert, especially when I first met him. He primarily kept to himself and that is okay. I was like that too when I was younger. I was painfully shy. I would be the one who would rather blend in with the wall than make new friends. It wasn’t until college that I started to be more social and my bff, he didn’t start to break out of his shell till he started working for Disney. He’s more outspoken and comfortable with himself now. Granted he still, like myself, sometimes want some alone time, away from people. It’s all good.
For someone who is shy or prefers to be alone, if you know that you are going to be in an environment where being social or recognized is inevitable try to prepare yourself mentally and try to relax. Do some meditation and try put yourself in a calm state. Have the expectation that people will want to talk to you, especially if it has been several years since you’ve been home for a long period of time. Keep in mind your family and friends genuinely want to get to know you better. I’m sure they missed you. Encourage yourself to be open to a conversation. Be excited, not nervous, to share your fabulous experience. Not everyone had that amazing opportunity to live in another country and submerge themselves in a different culture. That my friend, in itself, is awesome. Kudos to you for having the guts to do that.
Take your time, just enjoy yourself, and the experience. Be your authentic self and just be happy! You Got This Piotr!
Also Happy Steemit Anniversary Piotr! :)
Dear @shari-loveurlife
Thank you for your kind words and I'm sorry for such a late reply. Somehow I missed it and had a pleasure to read it a seconds ago.
It really is ...
Those are very mature advises. Thanks.
Cheers, Piotr