This is an old picture of me— when I just turned 16 in late 2009.
For the record, my father took the photo without me knowing. The first time I saw it was after our holidays in sunny Mallorca, Spain.
The reason I mention this and, more important, what it means for you:
When there’s one thing other people value in me, it’s my ability to stay calm under pressure. (Sometimes too calm.)
How to keep your calm
The only advice I can really give: Don’t take anything personal.
Most of the time, it’s not about you.
If someone’s angry of you, it says more about them (than about you).
If someone’s kind to you, it also says more about them.
Sure, you may increase the odds by having a positive attitude. However, it only increases the odds. It doesn’t turn the odds into your favor. By not taking anything personal and too serious… you stay in control. Ath the same time, you accept the fact that there are things you cannot control. This makes you feel more calm, at ease, and helps you keep your cool under pressure.
Another piece of advice: Every weakness is a strength in disguise (and vice versa).
For a long time, I felt that my calm and quiet nature was a weakness.
In fact, it is.
In situation where you need an energetic personality, you can’t be all calm and quiet. You’ve got to engage. Entertain. Stir up emotions. And some more.
While I’ve gotten better at this, I will never be as good as a true extrovert.
And, vice versa.
An extrovert will never be as good as me (or any other introvert for that matter) at providing a safe, calm, relaxed environment.
