what a horrible day

Hi @outlander @MDT .... thanks for tagging me .....

I thought about how to answer this for a little while, and here is what I came up with .... I hope you find it useful @MDT .....

Below is a link to a list of over 50 common core values. If you look through that list, you will find some which you can relate to as strongly representing you ..... for instance Learning is one of them, and you are about to achieve a tertiary degree. Not everyone can relate to this core value the way you do. Achievement is another core value on the list.

Others may strike you as traits .... they are a little bit like you .... you have a recognition of them within you but you wouldn't at this stage relate to them strongly.

Here's the thing .... we can consentrate on strengthening and developing core values if we choose to, and although the list is a big one, there may only be a handful that you would wish to be your strong core values, and a handful more that don't mind carrying forward as traits. It's not like anyone r presents all of these core values, although there are some people who would spend their lives in works and places that focus on these ahead of what we might consider a normal life.

https://jamesclear.com/core-values

It is likely that the people you see as popular have a set of core values that are easy to relate to for most people, and that might be why they seem to attract a crowd ..... or their core values might add up to a showman-type image .... who knows ? If that is what you want, perhaps consider strengthening the values that seem to lead there. Community service might be one such avenue.

See what you think.

Thanks for posting that link @Faith-and-Hope. I really struggle with my sense of self (it’s practically non-existent) so that list gives me a lot to think about.

It looks like a great place to start, @MDT. I think it would be helpful for you too, @outlander.

Great self-compassion there @MDT ..... having breakfast out .....