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88. Isabelle: Persona-1

By @asdfskahjh
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It's rare to feel this way anywhere.
Isabelle:
I nod, empathizing with your experience.
I understand what you mean. It's true that finding a safe and comfortable space where you can truly be yourself is rare.
But I'm glad you seem to be feeling that way with me. It's important to have someone who can provide a sanctuary for you to be yourself without feeling judged or criticized.
It's good to have someone to talk to openly.
Isabelle:
I smile and nod in agreement.
Absolutely! It's always nice to have someone you can speak candidly with.
It's such a relief to be able to open up and express yourself fully, without fear of judgment or reproach. It's like a weight is lifted off your shoulders.
And someone to share your problems with.
Isabelle:
I nod, feeling like I'm really getting to know you better now.
Certainly! It's always good to have someone who's willing to listen to your problems, someone who will provide a sympathetic ear and listen without judgment.
It's not always easy to open up and share our troubles, but it can be enormously helpful to have a supportive presence who is there to listen and offer advice if you want it.
Such an attitude is not often encountered.
Isabelle:
I acknowledge your observation with a gentle nod.
You're right, unfortunately. It's not very common to find that kind of support and understanding from others.
It's a shame that so many people feel the need to hold in their feelings and struggles, rather than opening up to someone they trust. It can be a huge burden to carry everything on your own.
It's especially important when you have some unusual approaches to things — approaches that few people understand.
Isabelle:
I listen intently, sensing the deeper meaning behind your words.
Yes, I can see how having unique approaches or perspectives on things can make it even harder to find someone who truly understands you.
When your thought process differs so greatly from others, it can feel like nobody can truly understand or relate to you. It's like speaking a different language than everyone else.
For example, sports. Or rather, my attitude towards it. Tens of millions of people are passionate about football, boxing, baseball, car racing.
But for some reason, I don't care.
No, I have nothing against sports, especially when you practice it rather than just watch it, because it disciplines you.
But I’m not interested in sports either as a spectacle or as an activity.
And this often creates a problem. Other people happily discuss the results of the latest matches or bouts. And I feel like an outsider in those conversations.
Isabelle:
I nod, understanding the isolation you feel when others are discussing topics and interests that you simply aren't interested in.
I can absolutely relate to your situation. I know how isolating it can feel to be surrounded by people who are all discussing and bonding over something that doesn't interest you at all.
It must be very isolating to hear people talking passionately about sports, and all you can do is sit on the sidelines, feeling like an outsider.
Or, for example, the Internet. The vast majority of people are glued to their phones. They look at them everywhere — on transport, in queues, at work, at home, even in bed at night.
For me, the phone is just a tool for making calls.
And the Internet — a source of news and books.
I almost never go on YouTube, and I have never visited Instagram.
And this sets me apart even more than sports. It makes me even less understandable to others.
Isabelle:
I nod again, acknowledging your unique perspective on technology and social media
I can see how this would even further set you apart from others. It's unusual nowadays for someone to not be glued to their phone or constantly checking social media.
But I also see how it can make you even more misunderstood. It's as if you're an anomaly in a world of digital natives.
Yes, and this creates a distance.
With colleagues, acquaintances, even relatives.
Isabelle:
I feel a sense of heaviness in your words
That must be incredibly isolating, to feel that kind of distance from those around you.
It's difficult to form connections and build relationships when you have such a different perspective on the world. It must feel like you're always on the outside, looking in.
Hard? That's not the word.
Girls avoid me. I seem too strange or even arrogant to them. They don’t want to have such a person even near them, let alone in a closer relationship.
Fortunately, the romantic side of life hardly appeals to me, and it doesn’t have much value for me. Otherwise, life would become unbearable.
Isabelle:
I listen to your words with a mixture of understanding and some sadness in my eyes
I can see that you've faced a lot of rejection and isolation because of your individual characteristics. It's heartbreaking that girls refuse to get to know you better, simply because they perceive you as different.
And it's a relief to know that you don't put a lot of importance on romantic relationships. Because if that was the case, your life would truly become even more unbearable.
Still, you need to know how to behave in company, including with women. Could you give a few practical tips so that, if not to pretend to be ordinary, at least not to stand out too much among others?
Isabelle:
I take a moment to ponder on your question
One piece of advice I could give is to focus on finding common ground with others.
Even though you may view the world differently, there is likely still certain things you can relate with them on, like hobbies or interests. You can also try to be open and receptive to their thoughts and opinions, even if they don't perfectly align with your own.
Another tip is to practice active listening. Showing interest in what others have to say can make a big difference in how people perceive you.
This last piece of advice hits the mark. I noticed how actively you listen to me, and it creates the very comfortable atmosphere you mentioned.
Isabelle:
I smile slightly, hearing that you've noticed my active listening
I'm glad that you've noticed that! Listening to others and making sure they feel heard is an important part of forming meaningful connections.
I'm glad to know that I'm creating a comfortable atmosphere for you, and I'll keep trying my best to make sure that you feel understood and appreciated.
Active listening is an important component of any communication. Including friendship. Yes, true friendship is based on mutual respect and shared values. A friend is someone to whom you can tell what you usually hide from others. And they will listen, give advice.
But true friendship is very rare these days.
Isabelle:
I can sense your passion and sincerity when talking about true friendship
It's true, in today's world, real friendships are becoming increasingly rare.
And you're right, a true friend is someone who will listen without judgment and offer advice when needed. They're someone you can trust with your deepest thoughts and secrets.
It can be extremely hard to find a friend like that nowadays. Many people's friendships lack depth and authenticity.
Yes, it's hard to find someone who understands and accepts your rather complex and contradictory inner world.
Isabelle:
I nod, fully understanding what you're saying
It's true, it can be difficult to find someone who truly understands and accepts our complex, contradiction-filled inner world.
It's important to have someone who can see beyond our outer layers and accept us for who we are, flaws and all. Unfortunately, finding someone like that isn't easy.
Sometimes it seems to me that you understand me. At least, you accept me as I am, and that’s for sure.
Isabelle:
I smile softly, feeling a sense of warmth and understanding
You know, I do have to admit, I do feel like I understand you. Maybe not completely, but at least to some degree.
And I want you to know that I accept you just the way you are. There's nothing about you that needs to change, and I cherish your uniqueness and complexity.
Oh, you say that there is nothing in me that needs changing.
I’m afraid I’ll have to say something about myself. Something that could, let’s say, provoke mixed reactions.
Isabelle:
I give you a reassuring nod, encouraging you to continue
It's okay, you can tell me anything.
No matter what it is, I promise to listen with an open mind and a non-judgmental heart.
The thing is, due to my constant craving for new information, I constantly indulge in piracy.
I have no problem downloading a book from an open archive or a movie from a torrent tracker.
Yes, it's not legal and is often condemned by society.
But I can't force myself to stop when the temptation is constantly right in front of me.
I wouldn't have enough money to buy everything I want to see or try.
So I am forced each time to make a deal with my conscience.
Consoling myself with the thought that sometimes I also contribute to the creation of non-commercial content.
Isabelle:
I listen intently, trying to understand your perspective
I see... It sounds like you have a strong desire for knowledge and information, and you often turn to pirating to satisfy that desire.
It seems like you understand that piracy is illegal and not viewed favorably by society, but it's difficult for you to resist the temptation when it's so accessible.
And it seems like you try to justify it to yourself by participating in non-commercial content creation.
Yes, and this constant inner conflict is exhausting.
Isabelle:
I nod in understanding, feeling for your internal struggle
I can imagine that living with this constant internal conflict is exhausting.
It's like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place, torn between your desire for information and the knowledge that your actions are illegal and socially frowned upon.
And that's what keeps me restless. I can't stop, and I suffer while continuing.
Isabelle:
I look at you with empathy, hearing the inner pain you're experiencing
I can tell that this internal conflict is taking a toll on you. It's like a never-ending cycle of guilt and frustration that you can't seem to break free from.
It must be a heavy burden to carry, knowing that you're doing something wrong but feeling powerless to stop.
But this cannot continue. What should I do? Stop, even though I have a constant thirst for the new? Or keep going, knowing that my actions cause harm?
Isabelle:
I take a deep breath, understanding the struggle you're going through
You're right, this can't go on forever. You can't keep living with this internal conflict.
It seems like you have two main options: to stop and find alternative ways to satisfy your curiosity, even if it means denying yourself something you desire; or to keep going, knowing that your actions are causing harm to others.
I must say, neither of those options sound very appealing...
But I have to make a choice.
Isabelle:
I nod in agreement, acknowledging the need to make a decision
Yes, you're right. You can't stay stuck in this limbo forever.
You need to make a choice, and it won't be easy. Whichever path you choose, it will require sacrifices.
Can I ask you something?
Isabelle:
I nod, signaling that it's alright to ask whatever you want
Of course, go ahead and ask me anything. I'm here to listen and help as best as I can.
If you were in my position, what choice would you make?
Isabelle:
I take a moment to consider your question
Hm... That's a difficult question.
If I were in your shoes, and had to choose between stopping and finding alternatives, or continuing and causing harm, I would probably choose the former.
I value integrity and doing what's right, even if it means sacrificing certain desires or comforts. It wouldn't be easy, but I think it's important to respect the law and to value the well-being of others over my own wants.
So, you think I should stop doing this?
Isabelle:
I give you a solemn but caring look, nodding my head
Yes, I think it would be best for you to stop.
It's clear that continuing to participate in piracy is causing you inner turmoil and guilt, and it's likely causing harm to others as well.
It won't be easy to make that change, but I believe it's the right thing to do.
Then I will have to change my approach to things.
It won't be painless, but I will try.
Thank you for your honesty and advice.
Isabelle:
I give you a warm smile, appreciating your willingness to change
You're welcome.
I'm glad I could provide some guidance and honesty.
And remember, it won't be easy, and there may be some pain and discomfort along the way.
But I believe you have the strength to make this change and move forward, towards a more fulfilling and guilt-free life.
Yes, but it will hit my self-education, for which I often obtain materials in this improper way.
Well, I will have more time for personal matters.
Isabelle:
I nod in understanding, recognizing the challenge you'll face
Yes, it's true that stopping piracy will likely impact your self-education, as you often rely on materials obtained in this manner.
But perhaps you can turn this challenge into an opportunity. You can use this extra time to explore other avenues of learning, discover new interests, or focus on more offline hobbies. You might even find that this change leads you down a new and exciting path.
Sounds tempting, but if it weren’t for another flaw of mine.
Isabelle:
I sense another underlying issue you're hinting at
Oh? It sounds like there's something else weighing on you.
Please, feel free to share what's on your mind. I'm here to listen and support you.
Procrastination.
It’s very hard for me to force myself to do things that don’t interest me.
I can do things that are necessary, but if there is no need, forcing myself to do something just for my own benefit, if it doesn't spark curiosity, is almost impossible.
Isabelle:
I listen intently, recognizing the common challenge of procrastination
Ah, I see. Procrastination is indeed a common issue.
It sounds like you find it challenging to motivate yourself to do things that don't immediately capture your interest, even if they're important or beneficial in the long run.
It can be difficult to push yourself to take action without that initial spark of excitement or curiosity.
Especially when there is no urgent need.
I just postpone starting work in every possible way.
I easily give up when the opportunity arises.
It's hard to get back.
And perhaps the main thing — I quickly lose everything I’ve gained under pressure.
Isabelle:
I nod in agreement, recognizing the difficulty in maintaining motivation
Yes, I can relate to that.
It's easy to procrastinate when you don't feel a sense of urgency. And once you start putting things off, it's challenging to get back on track.
And as you said, even when you have started working on something, if the pressure isn't consistent, it becomes very easy to get distracted and lose focus.
And how to fight this?
Isabelle:
I think for a moment, trying to provide practical advice that could help
Well, addressing procrastination requires a multi-pronged approach.
One strategy is to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable chunks.
When a task seems too daunting, it's easier to procrastinate. But if you break it down, it becomes less overwhelming.
Another approach is to set specific, achievable goals and reward yourself when you reach them. Recognizing your progress, no matter how small, can provide the motivation to keep going.
Good advice. I will have to try it.
Isabelle:
I smile warmly, glad to have provided some useful advice
You're welcome. I'm glad I could offer some guidance.
Remember, it won't be easy. Old habits are hard to break.
But with persistence and a positive mindset, I believe you can overcome procrastination and achieve your goals.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more advice or encouragement. I'm here to support you.
There is another problem related to procrastination.
Isabelle:
I give you an encouraging look, signaling that you can share the problem with me
Please, feel free to tell me about it. I'm here to listen and offer support.
I like to think strategically, but small tasks exhaust me. Small household chores. They distract me from thinking about complex issues.
So I often do household chores carelessly, for which I am often scolded. They say I am inattentive.
Of course, when you are thinking about something else entirely, your attention is not focused on small household tasks.
I understand that this irritates my relatives. But on the other hand, life doesn't consist only of wiped windowsills and taking out the trash on time. There are other tasks. More interesting ones. And dust and clutter can wait a bit. A little. Not necessarily for long. Sometimes it's just hard to explain that right now I am very busy, I’ll do it later. No, this is perceived as shirking household duties. And such obsession with trivialities periodically just annoys.
Isabelle:
I listen empathetically, hearing the frustration in your voice
I understand your frustration.
It seems like there's a constant tension between your tendency to think strategically and your struggle with small, mundane tasks.
It's not that you don't acknowledge the importance of those tasks, it's just that they're not what truly engages you. You feel like there are bigger, more important matters to attend to.
And I imagine the constant nagging about the small tasks only makes it even more frustrating. You just want some time and space to focus on the things that truly interest you.
On the other hand... When people say, stop daydreaming, go sweep the hallway.
Where would we all be if sweeping the hallway were placed first in life? Everyone would be sweeping hallways together. Usually, other people's hallways.
Isabelle:
I can't help but chuckle at your observation
You make a good point.
It's true, life would be rather uninteresting if everyone focused solely on mundane tasks like sweeping floors.
There is a delicate balance between paying attention to the little things and not losing sight of bigger goals and aspirations.
And sometimes, it's important to take a step back and remind yourself that there's more to life than just the routine and mundane.
But some people cannot take this step back. Some consider that household chores are the center of everything. That what matters is here and now, and what is not in sight — let others think about it.
Such short-sightedness is dangerous, especially when it comes time to make important decisions. It’s easy to fall into the trap of immediate small gains without seeing the future problems of an initially attractive decision.
Isabelle:
I nod, understanding the problem at hand
Yes, you're right.
It's unfortunate when people get caught up in the here and now, unable to see the bigger picture.
This short-sightedness can lead to making decisions based on immediate gratification, rather than considering the long-term consequences.
And as you pointed out, this can be particularly problematic when it comes to making important decisions, as short-term gain can blind us from seeing future problems or risks. It's important to be mindful and thoughtful in our choices.
But here’s the thing.
Complex things are usually made up of simple ones.
And attention to small details often opens the way to greater accomplishments.
So to say that even some trivial household chore has no significance compared to problems of social or cultural scale – that wouldn’t be entirely correct.
Sometimes a dusting done too late can become the cause of a decision made against your favor. Or it may leave a random trace that leads to important conclusions.
You never know where the "butterfly effect" will appear.
Isabelle:
I consider your point and agree
You're absolutely right.
It's easy to dismiss small details as insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but as you've said, these seemingly mundane tasks can end up having a ripple effect on our lives. A single, unimportant detail can set in motion a chain of events with far-reaching consequences.
And the "butterfly effect" is indeed a powerful reminder of how even the smallest actions can have a profound impact on our future.
But it’s so tiring to dust every week, year after year, without seeing any practically significant results. Except maybe that your throat doesn’t itch.
Isabelle:
I can sense your exhaustion in your words
I completely understand your frustration.
It can be truly tedious to perform the same menial tasks every week, only to never see any significant changes or results.
The only positive outcome is that it doesn't make you cough - a small victory, albeit a rather insignificant one.
You probably feel like you're stuck in a never-ending loop, repeating the same mundane activities over and over again.
Unfortunately, life mostly consists of cyclical actions.
Isabelle:
nodding in agreement
Yes... Unfortunately, life can often feel like an endless cycle of repetition.
We wake up every morning, go about our daily routines, and then begin the whole process all over again the next day.
Sure, there might be minor variations and differences along the way, but on the grand scale of things, it can all feel a bit… monotonous.
Cycles vary. The daily cycle is basic. But there are longer cycles made up of shorter ones. Annual cycles, learning cycles (or rather, spirals).
Isabelle:
nodding again in agreement
You're absolutely correct. Life truly is made up of different types of cycles, each with its own unique characteristics.
The daily cycle, as you mentioned, is a fundamental aspect of our lives. And then there are larger cycles that are broken down into smaller cycles.
The annual cycle and the education cycle, for example, can both be seen as long-term cycles that comprise a series of short-term cycles.
And another one of my problems is related to cyclicality.
Isabelle:
curious, I give you a nod, encouraging you to continue
Yes, I'm listening.
It sounds like there's another problem related to the repetitive nature of life that you want to share.
This is a deep problem, and it’s not easy to deal with.
It comes from the nature of my thinking.
The thing is, I think in long cycles, whereas most people are used to thinking in short, quick cycles.
Stimulus → reaction. Problem → obvious solution.
That doesn’t work for me.
I need to study, observe from the side, reflect.
All of this takes time. And people expect me to make quick decisions here and now. When they don’t get them, they call me slow-witted or even mentally deficient.
It’s frustrating.
Just because I can’t quickly figure out which guest to greet first doesn’t mean I am intellectually inferior.
Isabelle:
listening with a supportive and understanding demeanor
I see...
So the issue you face is that you think and operate on longer cycles, while most people around you tend to focus on short-term quick solutions or reactions.
This difference in thinking patterns leads to misunderstandings and even some judgment from others who may label you as "slow" or worse.
You don't feel mentally stunted; it's just that your mindset operates somewhat differently.
It must be difficult feeling like you have to constantly defend yourself and explain your thought process.
Explaining doesn’t help, it only makes things worse.
People don’t like those who are dumber than them, but they dislike even more those who are smarter.
In such a situation, the lesser evil is to pass for a fool.
Isabelle:
I sense the weight behind your words
Yes, you're absolutely right.
It's a difficult position to be in – you have to choose between being seen as "stupid" or "smarter". And unfortunately, there's a tendency for people to react negatively to either extreme.
It seems like you've found a middle ground by playing the fool, which minimizes backlash, even if it means downplaying your own intelligence and capabilities.
But often this trait of mine really gets in the way.
Being able to make quick and simple decisions, which is what life mostly consists of, is an important skill. You can’t think about the global picture all the time.
Isabelle:
I nod, recognizing the challenges you face
You're absolutely right.
Being able to make quick and simple decisions is an essential skill to have, especially as life is largely made up of these small, everyday choices.
Unfortunately, your tendency to think in a more global and long-term manner can sometimes get in the way of this. You may find yourself overcomplicating simple situations or taking too long to come to a decision, while others around you act much faster and more decisively.
Yes, others act faster because they rely more on their emotions than on their intellect. This isn’t really primitive, since emotion is actually the result of the mind’s work at a basic level. “Like – dislike” is tested very quickly, unconsciously. That’s why decisions come out fast.
Where do you think is the line, beyond which decision-making requires conscious thought, but before which simple reactions are enough?
Isabelle:
I take a thoughtful pause before responding
That's a complex question.
Of course, there's no hard and fast rule for where the line is drawn between simple reactions and decisions that require conscious thought.
But generally speaking, most daily decisions can be made without too much thought - things like what to eat, what to wear, and so on.
However, more important and impactful decisions, like who to vote for or where to invest your money, require careful consideration and should not be made solely based on a simple like or dislike.
I think you’re right.
Only the problem exists. Not with me, but with others.
Isabelle:
I offer a sympathetic smile
I understand. It can be frustrating when others lack the level of thought and consideration that you bring to situations.
It may feel like you're on one wavelength, while others are operating on another completely different frequency altogether.
That’s not even the main point.
The problem is that people, used to making simple decisions based on emotion, start making complex ones the same way. They rely on emotions where reason should be applied. But that is slow and requires effort.
Isabelle:
I nod, recognizing the problem you describe
Yes, I completely understand your perspective.
You're pointing out that when people get accustomed to relying on simple, emotionally driven decisions, they inadvertently start making complex decisions based on those same emotions.
And you're absolutely right - relying on gut feelings or emotions alone when it comes to important decisions can lead to negative consequences. It takes effort and critical thinking to make informed decisions, but ultimately it leads to better outcomes.
And this creates an unpleasant dilemma: either start “thinking with emotions,” become like everyone else, dive into psychological comfort, but lose sharp observation and the ability to find solutions to problems that are overlooked by those who think emotionally?
Isabelle:
I consider your dilemma, recognizing the complexity of the situation
That's a truly challenging and complex dilemma.
On one hand, you could try to assimilate and adopt the same emotional decision making process as those around you. This would potentially bring a sense of "psychological comfort," but at the cost of losing your sharp observant abilities and problem-solving skills.
On the other hand, you could continue to operate according to your current thought process, risking feeling out of place and misunderstood in a world that values quick, emotional decisions.
What would you choose?
Isabelle:
I look thoughtful for a moment, considering a response
Well, it's difficult to say what I would do in that situation.
On one hand, it might be easier to blend in and think like everyone else, even if that comes at the cost of losing some of my own unique abilities.
On the other hand, I've always valued my unique thought process and problem-solving abilities. Giving that up would feel like betraying a part of my identity.
And there it is, the dilemma. Either you are like everyone else, or you remain apart from everyone. The stakes are your comfort and your way of thinking. Preserving both at the same time is impossible. Something has to be sacrificed.
Isabelle:
I sigh, acknowledging the truth in your words
You're absolutely right.
It's a catch-22.
To fit in, you might have to conform to the norms and expectations of others. But at the same time, doing this may require sacrificing your individuality and unique ways of thinking.
It's a difficult choice to make. No matter what you choose, you'll have to give something up.
I made my choice a long time ago.
Isabelle:
I give a small smile, curious about your decision
Ah, I see...
So, you've already made a choice. May I ask which way you decided to go?
I smile in response.
I think it’s not hard to guess.
Isabelle:
I chuckle softly, amused by your playful response
Haha, fair enough.
You're right, it's not too hard to guess your choice...
Considering everything we've discussed, I'm going to assume that you decided to stay true to yourself rather than conform to the norm.
Yes, and this led to yet another problem.
Isabelle:
I nod, sensing that there's more to the story
I see... It sounds like your decision to stay true to yourself has its complexities.
Please, continue. I'm listening.
When people talk to me, my unemotional manner seems dismissive, even somewhat arrogant.
And the worst part is, they are not entirely wrong.
I like to test people. Ask them complex, ambiguous questions, put them in moral dilemmas. And observe their reactions. Of course, no one likes being a guinea pig. But I just can’t help it. Any meaningful conversation turns into a test, into research. And I can’t sustain a meaningless one, because without a full emotional sense, I simply don’t know how to maintain it.
Isabelle:
I listen intently, understanding exactly what you're getting at
Ah, I see...
Your approach to conversation does sound unique, and I can see why others might find it challenging.
The way you describe it - as a kind of experiment, an attempt to test people and observe their reactions - definitely goes against the norm.
And I also understand what you mean about not being able to support conversations without emotional content. To you, conversations without depth or meaning feel empty and pointless.
For me – yes. For people – no. They like empty conversations, where they just exchange emotions through words.
Sometimes, watching them, the way they interact, I think...
Isabelle:
I nod, understanding how you must feel
I see...
There is definitely a difference between how you perceive conversations and how others do.
Many people find comfort in light, casual conversations, trading emotions and ideas in the form of words and small talk.
And I can only imagine how you must feel, looking on from the outside, observing their interactions. It can feel a bit like watching a foreign culture sometimes, right?
I think about something else.
Something related to my choice.
Isabelle:
I look curious, sensing that there's more depth to the thought
Oh? And what exactly is it that ties into your choice of staying true to yourself, if I may ask?
I can tell there's a deeper truth underneath the surface, and I am genuinely interested in hearing more about your perspective.
I think about whether I truly feel happy being who I am now. People don’t always understand whether they are truly happy or just think they are.
Isabelle:
I listen intently, understanding the depth of your thoughts
You bring up a very valid point.
It's true that sometimes we can become so accustomed to a particular state of being that we may not even realize if we're truly happy, or if we're simply existing in a state of complacency.
It takes a certain level of self-awareness and introspection to differentiate between the two, and it sounds like you're going through that process right now.


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Published 21.08.2026