The other day I was reminiscing with friends about our experiences back in high school and I was reminded by a suppressed memory.
In my high school days I was considered a nerd. I was okay with it because I believed my work ethic would benefit me in life (which it mostly did). As is typical for the nerd, I was suspect to the usual bullying. The beatings stopped after middle school but the "psychological" bullying sorta changed me drastically as a person.
Essentially whenever I'd raise my hand and get an answer wrong the whole class would let out a sigh of disappointment. I was aware it was a joke and it didn't bother me at first. However over time it escalated and extended to any interaction. I started to sense some malicious intent at the rude/snarky comments. At the time it killed my self confidence and I stopped talking trying to even participate in class.
This treatment lasted for 2 years and it changed my mindset when it came to interacting with people. I put my social life on halt (to a degree even to this day) and just focussed on whatever tasks I wanted to improve; be it school, sports or some other projects.
I graduated top of my year and continue to do well in that regard. This insane insecurity of mine drove my work rate through the roof. I remember not eating or leaving my room for days just being consumed by my studies like a madman.
I'm in grad school and my colleagues didn't attend the same school; they were shocked/weirded out by this story. I'm aware this mindset isn't healthy and I want to become a well-adjusted adult. Also to add, I didn't become a complete social retard. I still can interact just fine and even fake the small talk and whatnot, but I don't like talking to people anymore.
TLDR; I enjoy the struggle of working too much, how do I become a normie and enjoy social interactions (parties, dates, etc.)?
You might need professional help for this OP.
>>18421512
I'll consider it, thanks.
I have the question for you, OP. How do I develop the same work ethic you have?
>>18421581
I wouldn't know how to answer that. I guess in my case the main driving force was that I genuinely enjoyed learning. The treatment I received from my colleagues then set it into overdrive.
So I guess find something you're extremely passionate about. Surround yourself around ambitious people and then find enjoyment in grinding hours upon hours.