Starting over and leaving behind certain aspects of your past can be challenging but also liberating. It's completely understandable that you might not want to discuss your past and family when meeting new people. Here are some steps and strategies to help you navigate this situation:
Focus on the present and the future: When meeting new people, concentrate on the person you are now and the things you want to achieve in the future. Discuss your interests, hobbies, career goals, and other positive aspects of your life that you are comfortable sharing.
Craft a new narrative: Think about the aspects of your life that you want to share with others and create a new narrative that doesn't involve your past or family. You can highlight experiences or accomplishments that are unrelated to your previous life.
Be vague if necessary: There's no obligation to disclose personal information that you are not comfortable sharing. You can be vague about certain aspects of your life without being dishonest. For example, if someone asks about your family, you can simply say, "I prefer not to talk about them much" or "My family situation is private."
Divert the conversation: If someone insists on prying into your personal life, politely change the subject or steer the conversation toward a different topic. You have the right to set boundaries and control what you discuss with others.
Surround yourself with understanding people: Seek out individuals who are accepting and non-judgmental. Genuine friends will respect your boundaries and won't pressure you into discussing topics you'd rather not talk about.
Focus on building trust: If you develop close relationships with certain individuals over time and feel comfortable sharing more about your past, you can do so gradually. Trust is earned, and it's okay to take your time before opening up.
Emphasize the present community: If you're joining new groups or communities, such as clubs or organizations, focus on the shared interests and activities within that community rather than discussing your personal history.
Learn from the past without dwelling on it: Acknowledge that your past has shaped you, but emphasize that you are looking forward to a fresh start and new opportunities. Letting go of the past can be empowering.
Remember, starting over doesn't mean denying your past or cutting off ties completely. It's about focusing on your growth, creating a new narrative for yourself, and building a future that aligns with your aspirations and values. It's essential to be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust to your new circumstances. If you find that dealing with the emotional impact of your past becomes overwhelming, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate through this process.