How I Learned to Need People (The Hard Way)

When work is all that matters, things can get a little lonely

A night with friends is more than a pleasant way to pass time, it is an essential human need and a way to create a sense of belonging for yourself and others. Monkey Business Image/Shutterstock

I’ve been told that I’m calm under pressure, but that’s only on the outside.

To prepare for my first TV news show appearance, I put on berry-red lipstick and started breathing into my belly, an alleged relaxation technique that never seems to work. In the background of the video feed, my turquoise-blue couch stood out against white walls, where I had hung Cambodian fans and other colorful souvenirs from my travels.