1. Help
I don’t admit when I don’t know something or don’t understand it. Instead, I push myself and master the skill rather than ask for help. I know it’s a bit obsessive, but thanks to this, I’ve gotten pretty good at fixing water and electricity—even as a woman. I’m not intimidated by a gas boiler, hooking up a washing machine, or even car repairs.
2. Anger Cleaning
Some people cry, scream, or drink when they’re angry. I channel my anger into something super useful: cleaning. I honestly can’t think of a more productive way to release tension. If someone gets on my nerves at work or I have a fight with my boyfriend, I open the closet, pull out the vacuum, mop, duster, and cleaning supplies. Grabbing my little "relaxation tools," I dive into tidying up the apartment. By the time I’ve dusted, cleaned, and scrubbed everything out of frustration, I feel pleasantly tired and calm.
3. Letting Go
I can let go of people faster than you can say "bye." Did a relationship end? Others might mourn for weeks or months, but I decide that this person no longer exists to me, and that’s it. Did a friend hurt me? I block them on social media, then in my heart, and never think about them again. I never regret this choice and never look back.
4. On the Move
I’m terrible at talking about my feelings. So when I’m heartbroken, I don’t cry to my friends—I go for a run. Didn’t get a reply to your message? It’s been a week since the date and no word or a clear end? I lace up my imaginary (and real) running shoes and run my sadness away. It’s a super healthy and sporty way to heal a broken heart.
5. Checking Out
I think the official term is dissociation—when your brain switches off or drifts away in an uncomfortable situation. I’m really good at this. Boring meeting, boss scolding me, my mom lecturing, or my friend throwing a tantrum? I mentally "check out" and remove myself from the situation.
6. Extra Shifts
I take on every extra shift. If someone needs a substitute or extra work comes up, I compulsively volunteer. It’s not great for my rest time, but definitely good for my wallet.
7. Avoiding
I have conflict phobia. So I avoid confrontations, arguments, and fights like the plague. Sometimes it would be better to face issues head-on, but I just can’t. That’s why people around me see me as calm, kind, and pleasant.
8. Unhealthy
I don’t exercise—really, never—and I don’t eat healthily (not at all). Yet, according to my annual company medical checkup, my results were by far the best. My blood pressure, EKG, blood, and urine tests are perfect. I’m not proud of being lazy, but I am proud that despite that, I’m super healthy.
9. Sleep Deprivation
I get by on minimal sleep. I tend to work late, watch a movie afterward, then spend another hour scrolling on my phone in bed. I won’t say I wake up refreshed, but I manage well during the day and function fine. I know sleeping so little isn’t healthy, but it lets me fit a lot into my day.
10. Giving
I call this “bad” trait my "irresponsible generosity." I love helping people with money, time, or gifts. If someone mentions wanting something, I’m happy to buy it for them or invite anyone for a drink at the bar. I offer to help colleagues move, and more. Some have taken advantage of this, but most are grateful, and that makes me feel good.
