Friday, September 2, 2022

Introvert Interview 4

I'm an Introvert

                                   

Introverted people have a hard time opening up to others and sharing their thoughts and feelings. This can make them seem standoffish and difficult to get to know but this is only a surface-level view of their personality.

My Introvert Interviews are aimed at learning more about the unique individual insights of introverts that other people often don't see and gaining more understanding of their introverted personality.

Introvert Interview 4


Welcome to Introvert Interview 4 where I'm with Amanda, the writer behind the Introvert Proofing blog which is a blog devoted to appreciating and empowering the anxious and/or introverted on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. 


Amanda, Introvert Proofing


Aside from blogging, Amanda is a freelance proofreader and ESL teacher. I was recommended her Instagram Page by Catalina from Words for Introverts and as soon as I visited her page, I sensed peaceful vibes and tranquil energy. I was drawn to Amanda's insightful captions and deep thoughts right away, and I knew she was the ideal candidate to reach out to for an Introvert Interview.


Let's read Amanda's Interview where she dives into her journey of exploring and discovering her introverted personality.


Amanda, Introvert Proofing


 1. When did you find out that you were an introvert?


Oh goodness! I don’t think I was even aware of the term until my mid-twenties. It was then that I began learning how it applies to me. However, I feel I truly embraced introversion when I entered my thirties and now consider it my superpower. And I have recently discovered that I am a highly sensitive person (HSP), so I’m also coming to terms with how that has impacted my personality and experiences.


2. Which period of your life did you most suffer from introversion thinking that something was wrong with you?


Probably elementary school (roughly ages 8-12). During that time of my life, I had a lot of people criticizing me for being quiet and instructing me on what not to do so I could seem “less weird.” It did take a shot at my confidence, and I retreated a lot throughout those years. Even my memories of that time are predominantly of me watching movies or reading books alone. However, I also had a great best friend who stood by me and stuck up for me. She made me really courageous, so I could start accepting myself.


3. Do the people around you know about your personality type and respect that?


Before I learned about introversion, many family and friends pushed me to be more outgoing. They believed they were helping by encouraging me to shed my shy demeanour. And it was frustrating to be so misunderstood by the people I am closest to. But now that I have learned how to express myself and my needs, they better understand how to support me. I feel very respected, understood and supported by the people in my life, and it’s a great feeling!


4. How do you get along with extroverts at home, at work or in a relationship?


I enjoy friendships and relationships with extroverts as I appreciate their energy and that they can speak up for me (especially at restaurants). I also believe having a good mix of introverts and extroverts makes for a dynamic and supportive friend group. However, I always set firm boundaries to ensure we value each other’s strengths and respect our limitations.

As for extroverts in the workplace, I have found those to be the most challenging. Work really forces people together rather than letting us choose. And if people don’t respect boundaries, it can make every day difficult. For example, I remember working with someone who told me, “You can’t act like that!” because I would listen to music rather than her stories. Everyone else respected the headphones. It was acceptable and common for people to listen to music in that office, so I felt I was being picked on. And, as an adult, it was incredibly frustrating! But that was just one bad apple, and, for the most part, I have worked with some genuinely great people.


5.  How do people usually characterize you or call you out?


One memory immediately came to mind with this question, so I feel I must share it. I volunteered at a Fan Expo in my city (it is an annual comic book/fan-of-all-things-nerdy-and-geeky convention). During orientation, which was only roughly 30 minutes long, I was dubbed The One Who Doesn’t Talk. It was embarrassing but not the first or last time I have been called out for being quiet. I am naturally quiet and often don’t realize when I have not spoken for a while. I feel I should carry a card or something to let people know that I enjoy listening and observing. But I understand that observing without speaking comes off as being shy and unconfident, which is really not who I am.


6.  Are you satisfied with your current job? If not, what does your dream job look like?


I used to work in an office building, which was not satisfying. I had to answer phones and work in a pod with people who loved chatting all day. I am not totally opposed to conversations, but I am not about chatting for the sake of chatting.

I am now a freelance proofreader, and I love it! I work from home and interact with clients online. I feel more dedicated to and fulfilled by my job. It allows me to flex my strengths and get paid for things I was already doing for free (yes, I correct mistakes while reading). While also allowing me to have an independent environment where I can thrive. Though I do find networking to be a challenge and something I am still adapting to.


7. What are your favourite hobbies/pastimes?


Puzzles are my number one free time activity. I like the calm that comes with working through a puzzle. I also enjoy reading and will often opt to listen to an audiobook while working on a puzzle. And as I genuinely enjoy being outside, I do a lot of (super) amateur nature photography. I have more photos than I know what to do with, so I use them on my blog even though it goes against everything I’ve been told about growing a successful blog.


8. What do you hate doing that sometimes you have to do?


I despise talking on the phone and avoid it at all costs. And it’s more than a preference: I literally dread them. I feel so anxious when I need to make a call, and the sound of a ringing phone gives me a slight panic attack. I’m grateful a lot of businesses offer online bookings now. And when I do need to make a phone call, I write a list of everything I need to say so I can focus on the list.


9. What would you like people to know more about you and introverts?


Well, for one thing, all introverts are different, and we have our own needs and boundaries. If you’re developing a friendship with an introvert, show that you value that bond by allowing them to be themselves. And understand that introverts do not avoid social interactions because they are shy. In fact, many, like me, enjoy deep conversations with the people we care about rather than one-dimensional small talk. I want to get lost in a discussion and not be stuck talking to someone who can’t stand a lull in the conversation.


10.  If you have written or found any Introvert-related posts, please share.


I want to give a shout-out to INFJ Woman. As an INFJ, I appreciate the information she shares, and I find comfort that we have similar experiences due to our shared personality type.


INFJ Woman Instagram Page


And I would like to share my own blog. I write about introversion, personality, anxiety, and mental health. The blog’s purpose is to share my journey of learning about and accepting myself in hopes that it will encourage and empower others to do the same.


Amanda, Introvert Proofing

My blog: https://introvertproofing.com


My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/introvert.proofing/


My Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IntrovertProofing/


If you are an introvert (blogger) and you would like to be featured on my blog by answering 10 Questions about your Introversion Discovery Journey please contact me so we can discuss all the details.



Download the Introvert Interview PDF Introvert Interview
below

 


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Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Coffee Lover Interview 11


I still clearly recall how I first came across Ella through her Instagram page @my.doors.photos only later to learn that she had four Instagram pages, each of which is specifically niched down to her interests. 

Ella Golfer

Ella is an Armenian working and living in Barcelona together with her husband spending her spare time exploring the Spanish culture, shooting amazing photos, playing golf, working out, experimenting with different food recipes and "naturally" drinking coffee:)

She is a frequent visitor of Spanish coffee shops and her photos and videos constantly take me back to my first visit in Barcelona where I was first introduced to the subtle art of "coffeeing in a cafe" aka "desuyonos":) So I can definitely say that Ella has me seriously considering going back to Barcelona soon:)

Ella Golfer

Let's read Ella's Coffee Lover Interview below to learn more about her coffee tastes and habits, which she kindly shared with me.

1.   What time of day do you usually drink coffee?

I usually drink coffee in the morning.


2.  How many cups of coffee do you drink per day?

 I drink maximum 2 cups of coffee per day.


3.   Do you prefer going out for coffee or drinking it at home?

I like both.


4.   What is your favorite coffee drink?

My favorite coffee drink is Americano.


5.   When drinking coffee do you prefer drinking it instantly and quickly or taking your time and enjoying it?

I prefer drinking coffee taking my time and enjoying it.

6.   What’s your primary reason for drinking coffee?

I think it's a habit.


7.  What do you take coffee with?

I take coffee with fruits and sometimes with croissaants or cakes baked by me.

8.  Do you currently own a Coffee Machine at home?

Yes, we have a coffee machine at home. It is Piccolo XS Krups.


9.  How often do you visit Coffee Shops?

2 or 3 times a week.


10. What is your favorite Coffee Shop?

My favorite Coffee shop is Omomento.


Ella Golfer



Make sure you follow Ella's 4 Instagram Pages!




@my.doors.photos




Coffee Lover Interview 10


And If you are a coffee lover and want to be featured on my blog, feel free to contact me and send me your answers to my 10 coffee-related questions. 

You can download the free printable "Coffee Lover Questionnaire" by clicking on the link below.



 
You can also read  

Coffee Lover Interview 3

Saturday, July 23, 2022

Coffee Traditions Around the World - Part 1

From its birthplace in Ethiopia to the streets of New York City, coffee has become a part of people's lives and the center stage in countless gatherings and ceremonies. No matter where you drink your coffee, it’s a sip of caffeine that gets you going.

Despite being the second most popular and consumed beverage in the world, coffee has its own traditions and customs that vary among different regions and populations.

Coffee Traditions

Some cultures brew coffee using machines called coffeemakers, while others use pots called percolators. Some people drink their coffee in the morning, while others enjoy their coffee in the afternoon.

The ways people brew, blend and drink their coffee is a reflection of not only their personal style and taste but also their culture, region and background.

If you want to learn more about the coffee traditions around the world from the mouths of the locals then you are in the right place. As you make yourself your cup of joy to fuel up for the day, come join me as we discover and learn more about the coffee traditions in coffee-loving countries.

1- Coffee Traditions, Armenia by @lusine_photos

Coffee Traditions - Armenia

I will start my Coffee Traditions Series from Armenia where I was born and lived for 23 years. A typical day here seems to go around coffee.

- Coffee is best enjoyed with family members, neighbors, friends and any guests (invited or uninvited).

-The first thing you offer your guests is Coffee. They are usually not asked if they drink coffee or no, only whether they prefer coffee with foam/sugar :)

- Coffee is usually made by boiling in coffee pots and served in Espresso-size cups with a saucer. The saucer is here in case you want to turn your cup upside down trying to find images or figures that can predict your future:)
(Once I was young and used to believe that:)

- Coffee is always served with something sweet, actually with MANY sweet things. Everything is put on the Coffee Table like a buffet: candies, chocolate bars, ice cream, cake, dried and seasonal fruits, anything that you can find at home. Your guests should feel like the king and they HAVE TO taste everything!

"I'm trying to cut down my sugar".
"Come on, only 1. It  will do you no harm".


This is the Armenian Coffee Hospitality :)


2- Coffee Traditions, Lebanon by @lusine_photos


Coffee Traditions - Lebanon


- Let me tell you about the coffee culture in Lebanon where I've been living since 2007.

- Keep in mind the specific design on this coffee cup as it is typically Lebanese, though no one is quite sure how and why it originated.

- Coffee cups without saucers are usually used at traditional Lebanese restaurants or among neighbors over their early morning coffee. Don't even dream to see any sweets with the Lebanese morning coffee. It should be as dark and bitter as possible.

- If you want to visit someone you may usually call them saying that you will pass by for a cup of coffee but be patient as you will usually be served lots of sweets, usually "homemade", and chocolate first. After you have spent plenty of time interacting and you show signs of leaving, you will be served the "Farewell" Coffee

- The younger generation prefer instant coffee with milk: "Nescafe" as they call it, while black coffee, which is made in coffee pots, is usually drunk by the older generation (like me:)

- Cardamom Coffee is also very popular but don't expect to like it from the first try. I could not swallow the first time I tried it though it is my favorite now

People change, tastes too😊

3- Coffee Traditions, Italy by @ane-grig

Coffee Traditions - Italy


- Italians start and end their days with a coffee, usually a cappuccino with a croissant in the morning, a caffè macchiato as an afternoon pick-me-up, and espresso after dinner.

- When Italians say coffee, they mean “espresso”. So when you are in a café, just say “un caffè per favore” and you will be served an espresso. Besides that, avoid ordering a Cappuccino in the afternoons and evenings like a typical Italian would do. Some say it's because the milk and foam serve as a meal substitute and the dairy in the cappuccino may upset the stomach.

The Italians have become famous for their espresso drinks, but the country is also home to dozens of other espresso styles.

Now it's time to learn how to order coffee in a typical Italian way using the Italian words.

caffè ristretto – a very strong espresso
caffè lungo – espresso with much more water (“lungo” means long)
caffè doppiò – double espresso
caffè shakerato – espresso with ice and sugar
caffè latte – espresso with milk
caffè latte senza schiuma – espresso with milk without foam
cappuccino – espresso with frothed milk usually taken in the mornings with your breakfast, usually a croissant
caffè macchiato - espresso with a drop of foamed milk
caffè macinato - ground coffee
caffè marocchino – espresso with milk froth and cocoa powder
caffè mocacino – cappuccino with whipped cream and chocolate
caffè coretto – espresso with a strong liquor, usually grappa, or a whiskey
caffè americano – 1/3 espresso with 2/3 of water usually


Coffee Traditions - My blog, coffee and camera!



If you are a coffee lover and would like to tell me about the coffee-drinking customs and traditions in your nation, please get in touch with me here. It would be immensely fascinating to learn more about your ideas and experiences concerning the coffee traditions in your region or country.

Monday, July 18, 2022

Coffee Lover Interview 10

I recently came across a fun Instagram account with engaging coffee content and energizing coffee shop vibes, so I couldn't resist but ask the creator behind this page for a Coffee Lover Interview and she gladly accepted my request:)




 Just how the page's bio says: "Come for the coffee, stay for the vibes", this is how you will instantly feel once you start following @coffeeshopgirlss

Coffee reviews and discounts, coffeeshop aesthetics and girl hangouts, funny coffee reels, mouthwatering desserts and menu reviews can all be found here.


Coffee with T



Let's read all about T's coffee habits and preferences in her Coffee Lover Interview below. 

1.   What time of day do you usually drink coffee?

I usually drink coffee in the late morning to afternoon because I actually don’t need it to get up in the morning! 


2.  How many cups of coffee do you drink per day?

 I only really have one a day or sometimes none at all


3.   Do you prefer going out for coffee or drinking it at home?

I prefer exploring and supporting small local coffeeshops in my area! 


4.   What is your favorite coffee drink?

My go-to is an Oatmilk Latte iced or hot depending on the mood I’m in 🙂


5.   When drinking coffee do you prefer drinking it instantly and quickly or taking your time and enjoying it?

I pretty much drink it instantly I’m not one to wait to let all the ice melts because I don’t like watery coffee. 


6.   What’s your primary reason for drinking coffee?

I drink coffee not for the caffeine but I love the aesthetic of it! 
I don’t really drink it all the time because I don’t want to rely on it too much to get energy as I already wake up early with enough motivation! 
I like coffee because I really enjoy going to cafes and meeting new people! You can never have a bad conversation over coffee and I 100% believe that coffee brings people together!! 


7.  What do you take coffee with?

I like my coffee plain with just oat milk or sometimes I add a little bit of Splenda to it! 


8.  Do you currently own a Coffee Machine at home?

No, BUT I WISH!! when T gets a coffee machine it will be game over!! 😂


9.  How often do you visit Coffee Shops?

I go to coffee shops about 3 times a week!! 


10. What is your favorite Coffee Shop?

Some of my favorites in my home town Texas are - Third Gen Coffee,  Love Beans, Campesino, and Blue Door 

In Boston, my favorites are - Jaho, Tatte, Jonquils, Blue Bottle

In Stamford, my favorites are Lorca Coffee Bar, Winfields, and CFCF

And many more to come!





T's interview reveals that she loves coffee hangouts and appreciates the ambiance and aesthetics of coffee shops.
Because she is a firm believer that coffee brings people together, which is why she keeps visiting small coffee shops and exploring new areas.

 
Coffee with T


Make sure you follow T's coffee adventures on



Coffee Lover Interview 10


And If you are a coffee lover and want to be featured on my blog, feel free to contact me and send me your answers to my 10 coffee-related questions. 

You can download the free printable "Coffee Lover Questionnaire" by clicking on the link below.



 
You can also read