Met two female work colleagues at the shops. I haven't seen them for many years. I said hello. Both pretended not to see me then said hello. Both had very bad skin, wore clothes which exposed their midriff and bottoms. They were fashionable but their skin was badly marked. There was dismissive chit chat. I recall looking one of them straight in the eye telling her ' because I am very,very good at what I do, I only take referrals' she had asked why I didn't advertise. I was pleased I could see them in their true colours and relieved I didn't have to play their game to fit in.
Dreams often serve as reflections of our subconscious thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In this dream, several elements stand out that can provide insight into your current mindset and emotional state.
Setting: Meeting Colleagues at a Shop The dream begins in a public space, the shops, which often symbolizes social interaction and the dynamics of relationships. Meeting former colleagues indicates that you may be revisiting unresolved feelings or experiences from your past work life. The fact that these colleagues have been out of your life for a significant time suggests that this encounter may relate to feelings of exclusion or judgment that you’ve experienced in social or professional settings.
Initial Interaction When you greet your colleagues, their reaction of ignoring you until they felt obligated to respond can symbolize feelings of dismissal or rejection you've faced in your waking life. Their superficiality—typified by their fashionable appearance contrasted with their skin condition—could represent a judgment or perception you hold about appearances and authenticity. Perhaps you feel that some people in your life prioritize social status or image over genuine character.
Chit-Chat and Eye Contact The dismissive chit-chat and the eye contact you maintain indicates that you’re seeking acknowledgment and truth in interactions. Your response highlights a desire to assert your professional value and self-worth. The phrase "I only take referrals" strongly denotes a sense of personal pride and confidence in your abilities. This could reflect a phase in your life where you recognize the importance of boundaries and the need to validate your worth through genuine connections rather than superficial interactions.
Perception of True Colors The notion that you’re pleased to see them in their “true colors” speaks to your developing sense of insight and discernment. You appear to be valuing authenticity over pretentiousness. This suggests personal growth; you’ve perhaps reached a point where you are more comfortable in your skin and less inclined to conform to social pressures. It can also indicate your growing ability to appreciate genuine relationships while distancing yourself from insincerity.
Relief from Social Pressure Feeling relieved that you don’t have to “play their game” signifies empowerment. It portrays a release from the pressures and expectations of fitting into social norms or professional accolades based solely on superficial measures. This reflects a deeper realization that your worth is not determined by others' perceptions, and you are content in your own professional standards and social choices.
Conclusion Overall, this dream showcases a journey towards authenticity, self-acceptance, and confidence. You may be at a crossroads where you are reevaluating past relationships and your position in social and professional settings. The dream could serve as a reminder of your strength in staying true to yourself, fostering meaningful connections, and embracing a life that aligns with your values rather than succumbing to external pressures. As you process these feelings, consider how this clarity can influence your current interactions and long-term aspirations.