Do you always choose the last cubicle? This is what it says about you.

After many glasses of water and ditto glasses of wine, it is now really time to visit the bathroom. You rush to the toilets at the back of the restaurant. Five toilets in a row. No soundproof doors, just doors with plenty of space above and below for charmingly reverberating acoustics. All toilets are still available and the lock of the third toilet is broken. Which toilet do you use?

Probably not the first toilet. Because then you are very much at the front. And suppose there are unforeseen noises when you visit the toilet. Or that you actually sit on that toilet just a little too long. You probably also won't use the toilet with a broken lock. Because you're just sitting there with your pants down and then someone comes storming into your toilet cubicle. Not a best scenario.

That leaves three more. It will probably not be toilet number 2, because that is also quite at the front. So it will be one of the last two boxes. You choose the safest option: the last toilet. After visiting the toilet, you walk out of the cubicle somewhat hurriedly to wash your hands and leave again. Because of course you don't leave that booth in peace, proud and with a smile on your face. That would just give a strange picture. Want to look the person who comes after you straight in the eye and give them a broad, friendly look? Meh…

Does this sound somewhat familiar? Yes? Nice. Now the other side of the story.

Because what does this line of thought actually say? Why do so many people find it difficult to simply stand (or in this case, sit) for who they are? How bad is it if someone accidentally opens that door without a lock while you are sitting there? Should you be ashamed or can you let the person in question know with a friendly smile that this box is now your domain?

We are often very keen on customs that are tailored to others. Because that's the way it should be, because you don't want to put yourself unnecessarily in the spotlight or because you're afraid of the reaction of others. And that means that you let your own motivations, strength and talent be snowed under. And that's a shame! Everyone has a story, but not everyone has the courage to tell that story. Because they always sit in that back box.

Naturally. Sometimes it's nice to use the back toilet. Nothing for a while, just put yourself in the background. But know that the front doors are often still available and that it takes little effort to choose them. And you make that choice yourself. Don't get me wrong: this is not a plea to start pooping out in the open en masse, but one to challenge you to look critically at your own behavior. Does the world know who you are?

To stick to toilet jargon: your message is no less than anyone else's. Sometimes it takes a little personal attention to move from that fifth cubicle to the first cubicle, but it really is possible. Speak up, don't be afraid and have confidence in yourself. We don't have someone like you in this world yet, so take advantage of it. And when you get the hang of it: go nuts! Leave the door open for once. Preferably to do a smaller version of your business, since that's the kindest to do out in public ; )

Marnix