longer.blue

There’s a difference between fake peak state and real peak state. Fake peak state is trying to act joyful because you think you’re supposed to be. You tell yourself you’re confident, but you’re still watching every word you say. You’re trying to prove you’re in flow instead of actually connecting. Real peak state is when gratitude reaches your body. You feel it in your bones. You remember what you love about being alive. You remember that God is with you, and you feel supported. You can speak boldly, laugh, and be present with the person in front of you. If you go out and can’t access that state, look at what’s happening. Maybe you’re nervous. Maybe you’re rusty. Maybe you’re putting pressure on yourself to be amazing the second you walk in. You can visualize, reconnect with gratitude, and give yourself time to warm up. And keep building your social skills. Even when you aren’t at your peak, you can start a conversation, listen, say what you think, and move through an awkward moment. Practice both. Learn how to reach a real peak state, and learn how to connect on the nights when it doesn’t come easily.