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Jenn's avatar

This is so fantastic! It not only explains why I'm uncomfortable in friend groups, but also why I can not make myself turn my camera on in work Zoom meetings, and why I hate family reunions with the fire of a thousand suns 🙂.

"I'm not awkward. Group dynamics are awkward" is my new mantra.

And "It's a fact rather than a shortcoming" had me all emotional. I guess I haven't grown out of needing to be told I'm not broken. Maybe we never do.

Thanks for helping out the Jen(n)s of the world, Ellen ❤️

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Ellen Hendriksen's avatar

I don't think any of us grow out of being told we're normal and understandable! Thank you again for your amazing question--it resonated with so many people. Also my conclusion is that everyone has something we hate with the fire of a thousand suns. ☀️☀️☀️

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Cheyenne's avatar

I struggle with this same thing so much. Thank you to Jenn for sharing my experience and to Ellen for the great advice!

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Ellen Hendriksen's avatar

"Thank you to Jenn for sharing my experience"---agreed!

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The Gender Nerd's avatar

So helpful! Thank you

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Wait a minute!'s avatar

“Again, rather than focusing on how well you’re doing or how you’re coming across, focus on sharing your message.”

Great advice!! ❤️

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Ellen Hendriksen's avatar

Hey thanks! I truly stand by sharing stories with the energy of "look at this cool rock I found!"

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Stef Garvin's avatar

Thank you for the reminder to focus on social connection rather than performance! Much needed and appreciated article.

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