Dear Caroline:

You are welcome, thank you and good to read back from you (no reason to apologize, as far as I am concerned).

“Better I act how I really am – not speaking much, being rather calm, not excited – if she accepts me and respects it, it will be better for our (work) relationship in the future. Right?“- yes, mutual respect always helps work relationships and personal relationships!

“AND I feel better about myself too -not pressured into pretending someone I am not“- respecting yourself (not pretending to be someone you are not) helps your relationship with yourself, and that feels better!

anita