From Misunderstood to Empowered: Navigating New Places and Changing Perspectives

Introduction

Hi friends, It's been almost two months since I moved back to Florida, following my career dreams as a Walt Disney World Cast Member. I highlighted how my first Disney International Program shaped me in previous posts. Now, I want to dive deeper into how moving multiple times and adapting quickly to new environments has influenced my future. My first significant move was from the town I grew up in to Toronto, the country's most diverse and populated city. Growing up, Toronto was always exciting for me. I would take weekend trips by myself to meet up with city friends, and my hometown friends would joke about me living a "double life." I didn’t see it that way. I was expanding my horizons beyond my hometown. That taste of city life as a teenager made me want to move there for school, especially knowing that my grandparents also went there. I was torn between Toronto and Vancouver when choosing a school, but I finally chose Toronto because of its energy and connection to my family. However, my first year in Toronto didn’t go as planned. I felt like I had failed my dream of living in the big city. But I realized it’s all about what you make of any experience. I hadn’t set myself up for happiness that first year, but luckily, the opportunity to work at Disney that summer came along, and since then, each step has revealed something new about myself. 

First Impressions and Preconceptions

Growing up, I often clashed in friend groups, and it wasn’t until my twenties that I realized the issue wasn’t me; I hadn’t found people who embraced my strong personality. My mom, an elementary school principal, often talked about how girls are made fun of for simply getting along with everyone. I related to that. I enjoyed hanging out with the boys, not to flirt, but for drama-free friendships, yet I was often labelled as a “flirt.” Throughout middle and high school, I distanced myself from cliques, avoiding daily gossip and drama. In high school, I kept to a small circle of close friends, but when I began socializing more, the people I surrounded myself with made me feel judged. They saw me as loud and obnoxious, which fed my insecurities. Now, though, I’m proud to be dancing in the middle of the floor with my friends! The people who once controlled how I felt are now complimenting me for being open on social media. It’s funny how time changes perspectives. Looking back, I wonder how high school might have been different if we’d all had the life experiences we have now. Moving to Toronto for university felt like high school all over again. I surrounded myself with people who cared about status and materialism, which wasn’t me. Their judgmental nature weighed me down; even my mom noticed a change. But her support and understanding were crucial in my journey. I needed to go through these experiences to find the friends I have now: the ones who lift me, embrace adventure, and encourage me to be unapologetically myself.

Adapting to Different Social Dynamics

As I navigated the social dynamics of a big city like Toronto, I realized the value of authentic connections. Walking into my first lecture, Psychology 100, surrounded by 1,000 students, I felt overwhelmed at the thought of these being just a few classmates. The people I hung out with suggested joining a sorority was the only way to make friends, but that idea felt entirely out of my comfort zone. As a Canadian teenager, my weekends were spent at bush parties, local bars, hockey games, and anything but formal gatherings. I felt entirely out of place when I entered my first sorority rush. Known for my bubbly personality, the lack of authenticity took me aback. Panic set in as I questioned whether this was the only way to find my people. I had always dreamed of leaving my small-town life to explore the city and meet people like me, but I sensed there had to be a better way. Despite my reservations, I kept an open mind and rushed to a sorority. I had faced similar feelings of being out of place when I attended a private school on a scholarship, feeling different from my friends. Travelling from a young age exposed me to authentic cultures, making the materialistic vibe of Toronto challenging to navigate. My mom could see that something was off. I'd come home for weekends feeling anxious and panicked, especially after being dropped off at the train station. I tried my best to engage with others, but I didn’t understand why I wasn’t enjoying my first year like everyone else seemed to be after getting a bid into a sorority. Honestly, my first year was a blur. I blocked much of it out, holding onto the trauma of those experiences to the point where my mom didn’t want me to return. Yet, I was determined to finish the year, and I did! That’s when I got to go to Disney, where I finally met my people. The community at Disney was different. They embraced me for who I am, and I felt a sense of belonging that I hadn't experienced before. This experience at Disney was a turning point in my journey, and it made me realize that the people I encountered in Toronto weren’t meant to be my people, and that’s okay. We all have paths and needs that must be met, and we deserve to be treated with respect, kindness, and happiness. This understanding drives me to make everyone feel welcome and heard, as I know firsthand how hard it is to find yourself.

Breaking Through Judgments and Finding Connection

It’s been a long journey to get to where I am today, and the most challenging part was spending time alone to figure out who I truly am and what fuels my spirit. This process of self-discovery and self-awareness has been enlightening, allowing me to confidently articulate my needs to others and fully embrace myself without pretenses. Ultimately, it comes down to believing in yourself over the voices of doubt and knowing what is true. Disagreeing with others is perfectly okay; we all hold different beliefs and values. What matters most is surrounding yourself with people who align with your principles. If they don’t, you have to be confident enough to walk away, knowing it’s the best choice for you. Recently, I started working at a new location where people have warned me that if I share something, the whole staff will know. However, I trust myself enough to stand my ground. I know how to interact with others and am always willing to lend a hand because I understand what it feels like to be judged. It’s particularly challenging when people say they would never assume anything is wrong with me based solely on my appearance. Often, those who carry the heaviest emotions are battling the most profound inner struggles. We usually want to do so much for those we love that we forget to care for ourselves. It’s crucial never to judge anyone based on their appearance or any diagnoses they may have. You are not that person, and you have no idea what they’ve gone through to become the strong individual they are today. Anyone who attempts to undermine that strength doesn’t deserve a place in your life. By sharing my history with mental health, I hope to encourage others to share their battles as well. It’s hard to feel judged, but we shouldn’t have to live in that fear. The people who love us will never make us feel that way; they will always want us to feel safe and supported. Remember, you know your body and your struggles better than anyone else. The ones who genuinely love you will be there to help you through.

Lessons Learned Across Three Cities

Reflecting on my journey through three cities: my hometown, Toronto, and now Florida, I see how each move has significantly shaped my self-discovery and relationship perspective. Each environment presented unique challenges and opportunities for growth, allowing me to refine my understanding of what I truly value in friendships. In Toronto, I learned the importance of resilience in the face of judgment, discovering that my strong personality is a gift rather than a flaw. My time there taught me to seek out those who appreciate me for who I am rather than trying to fit into preconceived moulds. Moving to Florida as a Walt Disney World Cast Member has further solidified my adaptability and openness as I embrace the diverse personalities and stories around me. Each encounter has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the uniqueness of each place and the people within it. If I hadn’t participated in this program, I wouldn’t have a best friend from Norway and France today whom I plan to visit! I've realized that meaningful connections thrive in environments where authenticity is valued, and I’m grateful for the lessons learned along the way. Embracing my individuality while appreciating the differences in others has made my journey all the more enriching, and I look forward to where this path of self-discovery will take me next.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my journey through these diverse cities, I realize how each chapter has made me stronger and more self-aware. The challenges I faced taught me resilience, while the friendships I forged helped me understand the importance of surrounding myself with those who embrace my authenticity. I no longer feel the need to conform; I’ve learned to celebrate my bold personality and the unique perspectives of those around me. Each move has deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of experiences and cultures and reinforced my belief in the power of genuine connections. As I embark on this next chapter as a Walt Disney World Cast Member, I am filled with excitement and confidence. I look forward to breaking down barriers and thriving in new environments, knowing that I carry the lessons of my past with me. Embracing my true self and remaining open to the adventures ahead, I am ready to make meaningful connections that reflect my journey of self-discovery. Here’s to the next adventure!