I can’t find peace

@creative_writer mm it's a really common trauma response. Especially if we've grown up with high expectations and ever-moving goal posts.

I think you can definitely be proud of yourself for that. You have more worth than your brain is lettnig you believe 💜

@creative_writer closure would be helpful I'm sure, and so it's tough sitting in this space where a lack of information can easily lead to assumptions that then leave you feeling pretty crappy about the whole experience. But it's good you're able to recognise where those assumptions are being made, so you can avoid turning them into truths and explore alternate possibilities.

Could you request further information? Like if you contacted them and asked for insight on why so that you can take that on for future learning or something.

@creative_writer Waiting is also good, especially if you've got support from your uni.

I think it's something that can be worked on, for sure. I don't think anyone finds it pleasant to be criticised, and no one deserves to be unappreciated. If the criticism is constructive and helps with learning, then it's fine, but criticism for the sake of criticism without any opportunity for growth just seems cruel.

@creative_writer "Engage more" is a very vague instruction. Did they demonstrate or otherwise elaborate on what they meant?

I think in terms of sensitivity vs 'toughening up', it is, like all things, a balance. If one becomes too sensitive, we allow our sense of self to be governed by others. Knowing you have self-worth despite anyone else's opinion of you is so empowering. On the other end of the spectrum, becoming too thick skinned can close one off from being open to change and self-improvement, as well as impacting our ability to be empathetic and caring toward others.

I think sometimes it is about building up a sense of self-worth to a point where we don't need validation from others in order to feel a sense of value and accomplishment. However, to do this we also must not simply shut down or repress the sensitive parts of ourselves, because they're also valuable parts that help us to care and connect with the people we work with.

@creative_writer definitely something that could be unpacked further and worked on, especially if it's come from your childhood. Emotions aren't really something that can be 'wrong', first of all because we don't choose what we feel. Secondly, because our emotions are the way our nervous system responds to the world around us. I'm glad it's something you are able to acknowledge can be worked on - and I wish you much luck in the journey 😊💜