Danielle S. April 17, 2025

Although I’d do it all again in a heartbeat, I found myself completely shut down after traveling to California for my sister’s wedding. It was the most beautiful week, and I was so grateful to be part of it.

If you know me, you probably know I struggle with social anxiety—alongside a few other challenges. Attending gatherings or even making small talk can take a lot out of me. I pushed myself hard for eight full days, showing up for every moment. Then, on the way home, I got hit with a string of weather delays, turning my return into a two-day trek.

When I say “socializing,” I mean all of it—not just the big events, but the everyday interactions too. Talking to an Uber driver, checking into a hotel, ordering food, figuring out where I’m supposed to be—it all requires energy. And the bigger stuff, like meeting extended family at a restaurant, going to a bar, or attending functions where I have to juggle different versions of myself… that can be completely draining.

After even a small gathering, I usually need a few hours—or a few days—to recalibrate. So after ten days of travel, with multiple outings and constant stimulation, it’s taken me over two weeks to start feeling like myself again.

The good news? I’m coming out of it. Even though we’re still on the road and traveling regularly, I’ve learned to find moments of calm—to breathe, regulate my emotions, and give myself grace. In the past, I would’ve just kept pushing through without stopping, heading straight for burnout. Now, I’m learning how to rest.