It all began with a simple idea— and I think it was over a post-lunch coffee with Grace, back in 2023. A desire to create a space where people could come together to celebrate their true selves, share their passions, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded folks. I’m unsure if this is how most INFPs converse when amongst their own, but I’ve lost count of just how many conversations Grace and I have shared that have evolved around this desire to meet more people like ‘us’.
‘Us’ can be described as INFPs. INFP is one of the 16 personality types within the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. The letters stand for introverted, intuitive, feeling, and perspective. True to the stereotype— we indeed are sensitive, creative, idealist, and yes, go right on and label us as dreamers.
Boutique Fairs, November 2023. I believe this was Saturday, Day 3, merely minutes before we soaked up the storm.
Coming back to our conversations, I love how we dream so wild, so free, but also somewhat realistically. I want to think it’s age. I used to firmly believe in my idealist dreams. 18 year old me sure did let down 12 year old me by not being financially ready to buy a Ferrari in Singapore. 41 year old me is still disappointing her, but honestly, 41 year old me doesn’t want a Ferrari.
—I digressed, again.
After about 1.5 years, and a dozen or so conversations with Grace, I decided to take a chance and call for an IRL meet-up. It was a free event aimed at bringing people together to share in the power of gratitude. I was a little apprehensive about offering it FOC. Firstly, I’m 1000% aware of how tempting it can be to register when you see the word ‘FREE’, and then decide to snuggle under the covers in your undies with a book. Secondly, real estate is Singapore is a real pain. But, I ran with the idea anyways.
I proposed a heartwarming and intimate gratitude session, focusing on cultivating gratitude and emotional well-being. I sent out the invitations to Revel’s subscribers, and shared it on Eventbrite as well. I watched it go sold-out within days. I took a deep breath and was prepared that no one might turn up. (I’m not usually so negative. I swear. I’m usually a glass-half-full kinda girl. I just have a thing about being cancelled— but that’s probably a story best reserved for a memoir.) Sweet Grace reminded me that she’d be there, and at worst, we’ll have fun on our own.
Thankfully, folks did turn up (not all did), and I started with a personal story, underlining the importance of having a support system and a mental health toolbox. We played games I had created. Gratitude Jenga (my personal favourite) and gratitude-themed charades, where we shared our personal experiences and reflections. Throughout the session, I emphasised the significance of gratitude in deepening emotional connections, fostering empathy, and promoting positive behaviour. We wrapped up the session with a sense of warmth and camaraderie as we expressed gratitude for the shared experience.
As the event drew to a close and my guests left, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude. Through our collective efforts, we had created something truly special—a space where creativity flourished, friendships blossomed, and memories were made. And while the event may have ended, I’d like to think that the spirit of Revel lives on in the hearts and minds of all who were a part of it.
Logging off now to look up pix of Vespas.
x, Ann
