24F here
For a long time, and for various reasons, I’ve never liked being close to others. I tend to stand with a minimum of like 2 feet between us, and I’m extremely careful to never touch anybody or get within ~6 inches of them. If I do, I say sorry. Where I think I’m being polite by maintaining my distance, people say (or joke, ig?) that they’re offended that I won’t get close to them. If people touch me from behind, I usually either jump out of surprise or I just freeze & feel super uncomfortable. I don’t even touch romantic/physical partners, at least not on my own or first. I also don’t like my family members touching me most of the time.
I’ve worked in multiple jobs I enjoy that require physical closeness. Like acting, healthcare, and serving at restaurants. Everyone says “If personal space is an issue for you, you picked the wrong job.” I don’t know what to do.
How did you get over your fear of closeness?