What do these people need me to be so we can relate together? It sounds selfless, but I don’t think it is; rather, it’s my attempt to be and do whatever the person before me needs. I’m terrified that if I am simply myself, it will not be enough to foster connection and friendship. I’m terrified of rejection. So, I choose certain connection over possible rejection. I immediately and subconsciously look to adapt myself, my behavior, and my speech, to best suit the needs of the room.
