kaia’s Experience [she/her]

/unexpected/

Ain’t it funny how we try so hard to have control over our lives even when we know we’ll face unexpected situations? I recall thinking over and over again about whether I’d want to join Work on The Self, looking through the programme details and previous batch’s work and contemplating whether it would “benefit” me in my pursuit for better acting skills (oh this funny obsession with productivity). Fast forward 10 weeks later, yes, I did benefit, but not without going through all the unexpected activities. What’s more unexpected is what I managed to learn and experience beyond what I can use for acting.

/uncover/

As someone who hates conforming to society despite being a people pleaser, the first part of WOTS triggered too many questions about what’s perceived as right or wrong to society, and more importantly, why does it all matter. It wasn’t easy having to face and acknowledge my way of thinking, emotions, and responses, and worse, uncovering the reasons behind them. I doubt it will ever be easy, though I’m sure what will be harder is what to do with this pandora’s box. Regardless, I hope this isn’t the end of the journey.

/uncomfortable/

The second part of WOTS sure was uncomfortable when we were tasked to explore through movements and sounds. Once you connect the uncovered feelings and thoughts with these movements and sounds, it becomes even more difficult, especially when your “instincts” tell you to not reveal your “true” self or behave oddly from what society perceives to be “normal”. But if you ever try it, I hope you share the same sentiments that it’s fun feeling this sense of being uncomfortable and that’s how we can continue playing in life. So to all those reading this, I hope you explore what makes you uncomfortable (of course not anything illegal please) and that you find what makes you happy while being a part of this... society.