I can definitely see it for conflict resolution, though I'm more with you there these days - I prefer to deal with shit on my own. I don't find it useful to soundboard anymore - maybe when I was younger, but now it's just all sensation passing through. I'm more demanding to the hubs to give me space to process than talking my heart out about it, though I'm probs your direct opposite being an emotional girl at heart.

Don't you think it would have been useful as a teacher? I do. I think I probably did that anyway - in fact I know I did - tried to figure out what the asshole kid really needed, rather than criticise him for being an asshole. It was usually some desire to be liked, to feel secure, to be heard. As soon as I nutted that out, I'd have less conflict and more rapport with said asshole.

It's funny how people who like their own space are seen as problematic. I have a huge problem with the narrative that says we need to be around lots of people to be mentally healthy. I just don't need it. I love my family and my husband, sure, but I don't need tons of friends to be happy. I don't quite understand all that.