Balance

[LexyLou]

Once again I am at a loss where to post this! :oops:

I'm loving the forums, especially being so free to talk without judgement, that's new to me :) I'd really like to ask for some members' advice on posting if possible? In particular I keep reading things I'd like to chip in on, but I keep stopping myself and realised this is for two reasons.

1. I don't want to 'butt in' on people's worlds. This is especially true of threads where there's familiarity between posters.
2. I feel like a rookie and that my thoughts are less valid than someone who's got a PTSD diagnosis and knows all the lingo etc.

Being really clear - this is not a criticism. I am entirely happy to acknowledge these are fears based only on my own hang ups around socialising and perfectionism. It is more a plea for reassurance :)

 

[Deleted member 12723]

I am entirely happy to acknowledge these are fears based only on my own hang ups around socialising and perfectionism. It is more a plea for reassurance :)

I would encourage you to go ahead and support people you want to . I think the longer you are active here, the more friends you will make and give and receive support to you too. You will be okay if you go at your own pace. I think we all learning anyway so you are not alone here.:hug:

 

[Chitoshi]

I agree with Rain. I lurk a lot in the forums because I don't want to presume things and I worry I'll get yelled at for a wrong assumption. I also feel like maybe my thoughts on things are less valid than others.

The most important thing to remember is that you can only work based off of your own experiences. Whenever I post I always hope that people assume that I'm only working off of what I know and what I've found to work for me personally, and that they will either take my advice and try to make it work for them, or they will not take my advice or point of view because it doesn't work with what they are working through and that either is okay.

You seem to have a good heart, and I know where you're coming from on being worried that I'm butting in on others' conversations. I think that's normal, and that if you have advice or something to give you should feel free to give it. :)

I know I always appreciate it if someone can give me their perspective because it helps me. I struggle seeing the forest through the trees, so other perspectives help me take a step back. Your thoughts and opinions and insight is valuable, and I for one would like to see more of it. ;)

 

[ladee]

We all had to start somewhere. And no way are you 'butting in' on any thing going on here.... yes, some of us know each other, because we have been here for awhile.. most of the people I talk with have been here years before I got here.....
You have your own unique experience and ways you are dealing with things... not one of here knows it all... and any suggestions or experiences are valued.... that's what we are about here.....just jump in... no need to apologize.... we will be reading and letting your words sink in .... and help... and we will get to know you, at your own pace.....
Remember, you are here for YOU first and foremost... and if you have questions or want to share an experience you are more than welcome... hope this helps you to feel a little less self conscious.... go for it... we need new voices.... sending you gentle hugs, you are one of us...

 

[Deleted member 541]

Just jump in and get your feet wet. Not to many people yell as that really isn't tolerated. Opinions yes, yelling?!?!? Not so much. Besides, I don't bite. Well, not too hard!!! LOL!!!! Welcome!!!

 

[Recovery4Me]

Welcome to the board! Glad you found us.:)

 

[Justmehere]

Welcome to the forums!

2. I feel like a rookie and that my thoughts are less valid than someone who's got a PTSD diagnosis and knows all the lingo etc.

This is a peer support forum. It's not an already-know-it-all support forum. It's not about being experts or knowing all the lingo. It's about being fellow travelers on the journey. Rookie or seasoned, you are welcome here.

 

[LuckiLee]

Hi there.

Any and all ideas are welcome. We need all the help we can get! ;)

 

[LexyLou]

I don't have many words right now but I have a few… thank you all for the encouragement.

 

[EveHarrington]

Jump on in! The water is just fine. ;)

 

[Ronin]

What they all said.

& Getting boundaries wrong the first few times? Is also a way to learn where they are and how to get them better, after. So that isn't something to fear. Don't think anyone'd jump on you for things. ;)