Craft a story that explores the concept of a parallel universe where every decision you didn't make in this world plays out

In my parallel universe, I am bold.

I have always successfully identified my anxiety in moments that prevented me from enjoying myself or taking a chance and then I took those chances. I went on those dates that anxiety convinced me were scary. I applied for that job even though I thought I'd be rejected out of hand. I took that difficult class that showed promise for my learning that I thought I would surely fail.

I live out loud and feel fully alive. I put on bright lipstick, wear tight clothes, and go dancing. I openly flirt with those I want to flirt with, self-consciousness be damned. I seek out opportunities, not simply wait. No one would describe me as meek, anxious, or shy.

I take risks. I say "why not?" much more often. I ask that cute guy out that current me was sure would never be interested, I try new creative endeavors like that podcast idea I've had forever, and I go on those trips alone that I was too afraid or lonely to.

But because of these risks, because of living out loud, and because of my boldness, I get more hurt. I took the leaps and, sometimes, I came crashing down. Epic breakups, embarrassing social faux pas, and questionable photos to look back on haunt me. But they are all stories worth sharing, all stories I grow from, and all stories I am open to sharing.

In this parallel universe, I'm less savvy with my money, I spend like there is no tomorrow, and while that does not bode well for certain parts of my future, it does make my present thrilling. I get the jewelry I want, the clothes I want, and all of the delicious food I want.

I am fascinated with this parallel me. What does she look like? What does her home feel like? What does she do for work? Does she have a dog? Does she have a boyfriend? Does she have children?

In many ways, I long to be her, as I think is evident, but my fear stops me. Those downsides scare me so much, my roadblocks are huge, and my mental health is imperfect. I am not this parallel me, though I do not mean to suggest that I am less than her, only that I wish to be more like her.

Could I ever overcome them to reach through the universes and meet parallel me? Could I even reach through to some of the closer universes where perhaps I am not as bold, but still bolder than I am now? Could I even begin to try?

Do you ever wonder about parallel you? About who you would be if you had said yes instead of no? If you had taken that job that maybe paid less monetarily but more spiritually? If you had gone on that one dream trip?

Do you wish you were them? Do you wish to be more like them? Do you wish you could try?

So, please, tell me, who are you in a parallel universe?

(Prompt by ChatGPT)

"180844652" by Kylie Aquino

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