The Rollercoaster Ride of Unbelonging: Emotional Effects and Beyond
- by WONDERMOM
- Sept. 23, 2023
Isn’t it funny how a room full of people can sometimes make you feel the most alone? We’ve all been there, haven’t we? From those awkward primary school gatherings to mummy and baby groups where the toddlers seemed to gel better than the adults! Let’s delve into the emotional effects of feeling out of place or, dare I say, unaccepted in group settings.
Now, the emotional effects are a bit like the unpredictable weather. One moment, it’s the sunny spell of hopefulness, thinking, “Yes, I might fit in here,” and the next it’s a heavy downpour of self-doubt and loneliness. First off, it’s crucial to remember that these feelings, although genuine, don’t define our worth.
When we feel out of place, our mind starts this tricky game of comparison. You know the one: “Sophie seems so at ease talking about her son’s latest achievements, why can’t I be like that?” or “Jake’s mum bakes the most amazing cupcakes, and I can’t even sort out a packet of digestives without chaos!” These comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy and even escalate to anxiety. The emotional effects are truly profound and can significantly alter our self-perception.
The challenge is, these groups often create invisible standards – and trying to measure up can sometimes feel like you’re trying to find the end of a rainbow! Ever noticed how kids play? They don’t bother with who’s wearing the latest kiddie fashion or who has the most glitter on their artwork. It’s pure, it’s fun, and it’s without pretence. Perhaps, there’s a lesson there for us all!
Being unaccepted or feeling like the odd one out can sometimes have silver linings. It’s an opportunity to reflect, reassess, and sometimes, to reshape our circles. Maybe that book club isn’t for you, but the pottery class around the corner is just where your tribe is at!
And as mums, it’s paramount to remember that our little ones are always watching. They see us navigate the complexities of adult friendships and group dynamics. By showing them that it’s okay to sometimes feel out of place, and that it doesn’t diminish our worth or happiness, we impart life lessons of resilience and self-worth.