A little here, a little there

This fall, beginning to take part in a two-year leadership program, I have already learned a few things about myself:

1. In certain company, and under the influence of group-generated enthusiasm, I can appear to be an extrovert. That was a surprise.
2. In an effort to get to know more of the group, and in my flitting from one small group to another, I may reduce my chances for having a niche or a subgroup of my own. (In college, I hung out mostly with other English majors, theatre and music geeks, swing and ballroom dancers, and the people I happened to live nearby.) A desire to broaden my circle or a lack of commitment?
3. I am definitely an anomaly for my age group in my demographic in my locale. Unmarried, no children, well traveled, not a college football fan, not a Republican. Nontraditional.

I've never been afraid to do things on my own, my own way, but not loudly. I usually prefer going unnoticed. But in doing so, I may also limit my chances for new friendships, close connections and shared experiences.

I'm not sure what the solution is, or if there needs to be a solution. Just a few thoughts to save for later.

Comments

[Bill]

I believe the trait is partially hereditary. Your father is similar and your grandfather Louie was very much the same---wide range of interests and not many close friends though many acquaintances via his love of golf.

[Matt]

Very interesting post. I see a lot of interesting similarities in myself, though I think I have expanded more in the social area because of my work.

I do constantly enjoy telling people about myself and my background, though. Partially because I enjoy talking about myself :-), but also because I have a much different background than nearly everyone. I think it's one of the reasons why I have a number of different social circles; I think I would get easily bored with a single group of friends.

That said, I do find that deep, lasting relationships are what I value the most. Outside of family I only have a couple of them but they are very important to me.