I am not a fan of team activities.

It’s a really funny thing to say, considering the fact that I’ve been in several extracurriculars and pursued many interests that aren’t solo acts.

From color guard to planning committees, I’ve constantly been thrust into the orbit of others, more than I can say I’d liked.

The problem lies within my short fuse of a temper and my introverted nature. Being extroverted is a ruse; I’m faking it until I make it.

I kind of hate people, to be honest.

They can be unreliable and unpleasant, or even worse, dull.

I’m used to relying on myself and being my own source of entertainment.

But opening up to new experiences means new people, too.

So as corny as it sounds, letting yourself get comfortable with being on a team is equally important as whatever you’re actually doing.

I’m not even gonna hold you: it sucks for a while, to be honest. 

But it’s how you meet some of the best people out there, and how your activities go from obligatory to enjoyable.

That doesn’t mean you’re gonna love everyone, or immediately fall in love with the concept of reaching out, but it gets easier with time.

Soon enough, the team starts to feel a little less like a mismatched cluster of socks, and more like an intricately woven web of people.

So even if you’re anti-team-player, like I am, take a deep breath and just relax into the atmosphere. People will be people: you just have to try to sync with their wavelengths.