I, like most people, try to remain in a comfortable space.  When you find yourself in uncomfortable spaces, we try to get out as quickly as possible.  What happens when you can’t?

Very recently, I found myself sharing a room with a friend.  I usually travel with family members who are as used to my quirks as I am with theirs.  This would be a completely different experience. 

I like sleeping with a little bit of light so I can see where I’m going should I get up in the middle of the night.  She liked the room completely dark.  I typically stay up reading in bed until almost midnight.  She promptly turns the lights out at 10:00.  I’m a germaphobe and light clean the bed and room before touching anything.  She was walking around barefoot on the carpeted floor.  There were many more differences.   I decided to embrace the differences and not cause unnecessary discussions, arguments and such.  

The result: after almost two weeks, I found myself making subtle changes to what I did or giving in more to her different routines.  My routines were all shook up but I was still thriving in this new “normal”. I feel like going forward I’ll be able to adapt better to different and uncomfortable situations.  Just don’t ask me to give up spraying my natural “Lysol” to sanitize things – it’s not happening!!!!!