It's the little things

I am an extrovert. This is not a shock to most people. I love being around people, get energy from those who are equally positive and happy, and am inspired to work by getting others together, with a view to making something better, making a difference or helping others out. No, I am not a version of Mother Teresa...my previous blogs should make you well aware of that ! The thing I have in common with other extroverts though is the fact that when we meet negativity, when others fail to appreciate our efforts or when we are met with obstacles to what we think are simple quick wins, our stress levels increase, our energy drops and the gregarious sociable happy funny one pulls away, becomes quite introvert and develops a pessimistic outlook . Recently bigfoodiemama's energy took a nosedive. It's kinda hard for others to tell when this happens, as I pride myself on a strong ability to " fake it" , as GASP could testify ! I can turn on the smile, put on a show and give the appearance that all is well with the world, even when the opposite is true. I could win an Oscar on days when, behind closed doors, I cannot raise a smile. I'm old enough now to identify being caught in " the grip" and the part of me which withdraws from company, declines social events, turns to the couch and pj's and loses the confidence which others think is natural to me.
So, how do I turn it around ? I have realised, that it's just like the ads say " It's the little things". I remember the importance of fresh air and exercise. I write....a stream of consciousness or a poem...or a blog...I ask for hugs from my boys , who are only too happy to deliver a "Mam Samwich". I watch a funny programme sitting beside GASP with a cup of tea and treat myself to a scone or a bag of Moams...yes a whole bag ! This week I decided I needed to touch base with some people who make me feel better. I made the decision to tell the KOK's that my form was not the best, but that I was working on returning to walking and their company, as I was missing the fun, positivity and encouragement they always bring. I was met with a barrage of kind, wonderful, supportive messages and they immediately made me smile . I made a lunch date with the Blonde and the FA , two of the most generous people I know, who bring love and sound advice and a listening ear. I am a different woman today. I'm not at full BFM but this weekend will ensure her to full return to fabulousness as tomorrow I am included in a 48 hour trip to Carcassonne with the Mad One, The Caribbean Queen and the aptly named Sunshine....if ever there was a cure for melancholy, it's this magic combination. I also have a sense that I may not be the only one of the four in need of this trip. You see we are, all four of us, happy clappy extroverts. Sometimes extroverts need to act like introverts, sometimes they need to get away and be allowed to be the quiet one...it's a bit exhausting being the one to buoy everyone else up. For the next two days, we will simply relax together, enjoy laughter, fresh air , french bread, good cheese and a few glasses of vino...simple things. So , if you've noticed your extrovert friend is not full of beans, not around so much and keeping to the background, give them a ring, send them a message or give them a reason to smile a little....