Does anyone else feel this way? (introvert, boyfriend, girlfriend, generation)

[talloolla]

I am trying to pinpoint why certain "groups" make me uncomfortable and if anyone can relate or offer insight I would appreciate it.

I will start by saying I consider myself to be more an introvert then a extrovert although I enjoy socializing as much as anyone providing I have time to regroup with solitary time. I prefer small groups or one on one situations over large groups. I value the freedom and ability to make my own choices and while I feel as though I am open to listening to contrary arguments ( discussions), I dislike a too vigorous effort by someone to change my position.

My boyfriend has become involved in a reputable multiple marketing company and is doing well. I can say that 99% of the people I have met through this company are a good group of people. As you can imagine, they are from a variety of backgrounds and generations. I have attended a number of social events as my BF's guest and enjoyed the benefits but there is something that continues to nag at me. I am not sure If I can clearly explain this or if I understand it myself - that is why I am writing this.

The whole sales - group mutual back slapping environment makes me very uncomfortable. I want to be supportive of my BF this kind of group hand holding is something I can understand but it really is not for me. It is getting to the point where I get irritable so it made me wonder why this kind of thing bothers me. It is a group that makes me feel very much an outsider but it is also a group I have no real interest in being part of.

For example, I read FB posts between people I know have just been introduced and the back and forth conversation seems too cheer-leadership-ish to be real. I would consider myself a fairly private person so something about the excessive sharing on FB and the like is something I don't understand and to a certain extent don't trust.

Anyone else have a difficult time dealing with the group mentality? I appreciate any insights.

[Tracysherm]

Maybe it makes you uncomfortable because it's mostly artificial, and everyone is being artificial to further an agenda. If it DIDN'T make you uncomfortable, that would say something about you.

Is this a multi-level marketing thing? If so, most of those are like cults, with everyone repeating the same mantras and buzz-terms, encouraging each other on the surface, but underneath, trying to prove that they are the best cult member. Non-cult people are clearly shown that they are outsiders.

[Billy_J]

Just tell them all how wonderful they are! Also might want to mention how exceptionally good looking each of them is.

There is no end to the amount of praise you can heap on those guys. (Then just hope the get-together ends soon! )

It does pay the bills, so best to help your boyfriend.

Can you get out of going to some of those meetings? Do other girlfriends / wives not go?

Also you might want to try selling something door to door. People say NO a LOT and it can be quite discouraging. How do you and your friends treat door-to-door salesmen? (probably not very good.) I had to sell stuff door-to-door for fund raising in high school - quite discouraging to be told no by 10 houses in a row!