I do not like events (usually)

I own a small company and I’m the chairman of a non-governmental organization.

It’s nothing big — I’m developing both slowly.

I have a strong idea for the NGO,
but I want to give it a bit more time —
to clear it in my mind and to wait for my boy to start kindergarten,
so I can have more space to focus.

Last week, we had an event.

I couldn’t miss it — it was organized by the NGO,
and as chairman, I had to be there.

It started well.

As a former waitress, I took care of the catering,
made sure the seating was arranged properly,
and that everyone had water.

I actually loved the whole organization process.

But when the guests started arriving,
my stomach tightened.

My staff gave me a little whiskey “for the nerves.”
I took a sip or two,
then left it — the presentation was about to begin.

Everything went fine.

Thank God I didn’t have to speak.

They had asked me beforehand,
but I refused.

There were even people from the local press,
which made me even more anxious.

Still — the presentation ended,
and the “social” part began.

Wine. Food. People.

I didn’t know more than half of them,
and I felt so uncomfortable.

Also — mixing whiskey and wine?
Not a great idea.

I didn’t get drunk, of course,
but I was stressed that I might —
which didn’t help at all.

The whole event lasted about two hours.

It felt like two days.

People were happy.

They loved the food,
the wine from a local winery,
and the event itself was useful and meaningful.

But for me?

It took three days to feel like myself again.

I felt completely drained.

I even told my staff I don’t want to see people until Christmas.

They laughed.

I wasn’t joking.

Unfortunately, that’s not really an option,
so I keep pushing my introverted self
a little outside of its comfort zone.

One interaction at a time.

If being around people sometimes drains you more than it gives:

→ The pressure is overwhelming  

→ When your mind is loud but you keep going