What’s Next?

It’s official. I’ve survived the full circuit of obligatory events for friends and family this year. Relief? Sure. Lightness? Absolutely. But I kind of miss it too. There’s a weird magic in anticipation. The buildup often lasts longer than the event itself.

The last wedding was for my oldest, sweetest college friend, and like all good things, it went by too fast. There were moments when my introvert instincts took over, retreating to the bridal suite, stretching in solitude, noodling over Korean phrases I’ll probably forget tomorrow. And then it hit me. This was a perfect chance to make myself uncomfortable. And I did.

No one really knew me there, save for the bride, the bridal party, and a few others. So I went for it. I pushed past the easy-going, quiet version of myself and leaned into a little extroversion. It reminded me that sometimes breaking your own mold only takes some self-talk and a little liquid courage.

Now the dust has settled. The obligatory duties are done. And I’m left with that quiet question. What’s next?