8 Comments
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Bernice Chao's avatar

As an introvert, I’ve learned to set hard time boundaries at networking events because there’s a law of diminishing return. I’ll stay for a set amount of time, then leave before my energy is completely drained.

Catherine Chao's avatar

That makes sense. I’m a little different in that I’m mindful of my energy in the moment so I can be most present for myself and others.

Simbarashe's avatar

I have a problem of eating that my body doesn’t tell me when I am full, and likewise at events there’s no internal alarm to tell me I should go. I am often one of the last people standing around and I hate it. It feels uncool, but more critically it socially signals that maybe I don’t have other/better things to do that night. I am not concerned about the perception. I am concerned about the constant realization that I’ve done it again. There are so many events I might not attend because of the failure of my internal social alarm.

Catherine Chao's avatar

For what it’s worth, I’m seemingly insatiable in the same ways.

Shawna Olsten's avatar

First-time reader, long-time 20-minute rule follower. Show up, stay long enough for the awkwardness to pass, find one real human, leave with your nervous system intact.

Libby Rodney's avatar

The ick hangover yes 🙌 I think it happens when we feel as you say it professionally performative, vs our true selves.

Catherine Chao's avatar

Hangover - what a good word. Also, if only the power of mimicry were as high for authenticity as it is for performance 🫠