If you have ever been called the ‘strong one,’ you know that this title doesn’t just get slapped on, and it likely didn’t become your core personality trait overnight, or after some shocking life event. Here’s the truth about being the strong one that no one tells you, and how you can change your perspective on what it means to have strength, and also take care of yourself.

In your 20’s, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. Whether it’s your friend who just bought a new outfit and you wonder how they afford it, a stranger running past you on the street and thinking, Why can’t I run as fast as them?, or a schoolmate who’s been traveling the world and you feel like you’re wasting your life by not doing the same—comparison is a natural tendency. But while it’s an instinct we all have, it doesn’t mean it’s always helpful.

I recently moved to a new city. I've got an apartment, a job, and my bills sorted out. I initially thought those would be the most challenging aspects of the move, but as it turns out, I was mistaken. After a month, I had only met a few co-workers for drinks, but they weren't really my kind of people. That's when I realized I needed to find a new way to meet new friends. Here’s what I did.