Superhero Withdrawal
Ever suffer ” superhero withdrawal ” symptoms- the intense desire to return to real life superhero ( RLSH ) activities after down time?
I have and it’s not fun. Other activist communities document similar phenomena. It’s hard to regularly exert tremendous energy and not need a break at some point.
That said, ordinary life holds little appeal for those who’ve escaped its confines. While some happily hang up codes names and costumes, most always return this lifestyle because it’s uniquely fulfilling.
We all need time off. Saving our part of the world one penny and deed at a time can be draining and even discouraging. Taking off the mantle only to resume it after rest and relaxation makes sense. Otherwise burn out happens and that accomplishes nothing good and creates more problems while solving none.
When the symptoms hit ask yourself if you’re really ready to get back into the game?
While fulfilling and fun it can also be draining and in some cases overwhelming. This lifestyle involves much more than just dressing up and being nice to strangers. Beneath its surface are tensions that have to be considered.
Being a RLSH isn’t a job. Often it’s a part time vocation done by very inspirational people who take idealism into new and different directions.
I’ve read of RLSH who said they almost collapsed in the beginning because going out patrolling occupied every waking moment. Once you finally let this personal genie out of the bottle, it’s sometimes hard to manage. Real life superheroes who are parents; have spouses/significant others and conventional careers juggle those daily demands with their magnificent obsession.
The balancing act can get messy, especially when secret identities and extra expenses are tossed into the mix. Whether this is a covert second life or an expansion of your present one, being a RLSH can be quite alot to handle. The more you put into it leads to the realization there is more to be done. Pacing yourself is key to meeting whatever goals you’ve established.
” Superhero ” withdrawal is another way of saying make sure you’re ready to return to this lifestyle. Normal life is hectic enough without being a crusader too!
Don’t worry, the causes you support will still be here waiting for you.
NADRA ENZI AKA CAPT. BLACK is a super rights activist promoting wellness; crime prevention and self-development. http://www.captblack.info.
Recon
I think it zaps energy also because in the beginning, a lot of energy goes into building yourself as another person. A costumed activist can just don a costume and jog for charity as opposed to someone who mixes it up or a civilian crime fighter that questions on changing their persona for safety reasons, holding onto secrets, trying to think like a “superhero” and apply it to the real world. I feel that it’s easier for me to help people when I’m most casual. Personally I’d rather save of the “ninja” stuff for a discreet mission. Something big and important.