I am so glad that I finally figured out that yes, I’m an introvert. There are a ton of us out there. And unfortunately, not only are they misunderstood, they aren’t really even aware that’s what they are.
What is an introvert exactly??? Well in a nutshell an introvert is someone who is energized by being alone, and whose energy is drained when they are around other people.
It has nothing to do with shyness. Now an introvert may be shy also. But shyness in itself usually has issues with anxiety, apprehension and nervousness thrown in the mix. The reason that introverts avoid social situations is because it literally sucks the energy right out of us. And we need to be alone to re-charge. Not because of fear, or being antisocial.
And just because introverts seem to eschew conversations, it doesn’t mean we don’t like to talk. It’s just that we detest small talk. I know to me it’s trivial and contrived. Throw me into a discussion about ideas and concepts, and I’m all in.
But to go to a social gathering and mingle??? It exhausts me. And now I know that this isn’t a figment of my imagination. And it’s not just my allergies. After taking some time to do the research, so much has been cleared up.
I mean, I’ve always considered myself introverted. But now I know there is more to that statement. It’s a personality trait, not an affliction. It is who I am, and I need to start embracing it instead of forcing myself to participate in events that suck the life right out of me. I need to find a balance.
It’s a shame that this all had to come to light for me now that I’m in my fifties, and not sooner. But I’m grateful and excited that it did. I’m going to jump in with both feet and start exploring my new found trait. And I’m going to share the good stuff I discover. I’m sure there’s more than one or two more introverts like me reading this who will find new information interesting. Who’s with me???? k
