[klabb3]

Definitely gonna borrow this language, it’s a really important aspect of social life. I’ve always been very, very thermometer-like, with a strong tendency to mirror which allows me to connect with people 1 on 1 easy, but on the flip side I absorb vibes I don’t want. My coping mechanism is to avoid bad vibes, confrontational situations, etc. Even being in a social group for long can affect me negatively if the people there have values I don’t agree with, even if I have no desire to change them. Any tips for how to manage that better?

[Trasmatta]

Therapy helps. Building a stronger sense of self and with it, more internal boundaries between your thoughts and beliefs and those of others.

I'm this way as well, and it's like your emotions are totally porous, absorbing everything from those around you. It's a blessing and a curse. Generally stems from a childhood where you had to be very in tune with the emotions of your caregiver in order to stay safe.

[hi_hi]

Thank you. This lines up with my experiences, which I never knew were connected. Prefer 1:1, alcoholic mum growing up who had good days and bad days. I could tell which it would be from the "vibe" when I walked through the door after school before seeing anyone.

[sethammons]

Oof. Being in tune with your caregiver hits hard. My mom was a manic, bi-polar, depressive person also suffering from schizophrenia. I learned to read some situations like you mention but toss in some randomness so it gets real dicey.

[jjj123]

Wow I’ve always felt much more comfortable in 1:1 situations than group situations, but I never framed it the way you have here. Your comment really resonates, thank you!