I always knew I was an introvert, but it wasn’t until I started working in the corporate world that I realized just how much of a struggle it can be. In meetings and presentations, I found myself shrinking back into my chair while more outgoing colleagues took the lead. I was too nervous to speak up, too afraid of saying the wrong thing.

It wasn’t just a matter of personality, though – the corporate culture itself seemed designed for extroverts. Everything was about results and charisma, about being heard and seen. I felt like I was constantly being pushed out of my comfort zone, forced to put on a show just to be taken seriously.

The worst part was the feeling of isolation. I craved quiet spaces to reflect and recharge, but there was nowhere to go. The open-plan office was always buzzing with activity, and even lunch breaks felt like an extension of the workday. It was hard to connect with my colleagues, and I often felt like I was missing out on important conversations and opportunities.

All of these challenges took a toll on me emotionally. I started to doubt myself, to feel like I wasn’t cut out for the corporate world. It was hard not to compare myself to my more outgoing colleagues and wonder if I was doing something wrong.

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Maybe it’s easier to look at it in this way.

It’s not you constantly fighting the FOMO, wanting to be available for your friends and colleagues.

It’s not you trying to escape your thoughts.

It’s not you gazing and scrolling because you just can’t stop.

It’s not.

Your device has needs. It really does. And if you want it to be there for you, respect its needs. It needs to go to sleep one hour before you. And wake up one hour after you wake up. Otherwise it will feel bad.

The other day, I read a text from a colleague, business related, just before going to sleep. It kept me up for 2 hours. I listened to music and podcasts till fading to sleep in a not so good mood. And it all happened because I wasn’t there for my device. It needed to sleep.

Deal with the hard stuff when well slept, worked out, fed and ready to rumble.