I think you sound very much like I was or still am to a certain extent. I understand the isolating part. I work face to face with the public, and after a long shift, I just want to come home and chill. I don't want or need the interaction like I used to. I now value my time to read, reflect, write, and work on a side business idea.

I've been hurt too and it's a perfectly natural thing to just want to crawl into a hole and stay there. At some point though, I came out of that cave. (this job forced me) I was timid, quiet, and felt so awkward and not authentic at all. After being at this job...face to face with people ALL the time...my boss LOL and says, "Now, I can't get you to shut up" That is the authentic me @ my job...

I enjoyed reading your post and see nothing less than a person that wants to get better and change. My hat's off to you...change is hard but it's attainable! I'm glad you are part of our community...Cat