I am what "they" call, an introverted-extrovert. I think there are a lot of us, amiright? Staying in is the new going out? Netflix is my preferred party host, yours too? Introverted- extroverts have this super power, except instead of saving the world, we save ourselves from awkward small talk and crowded gatherings. If you cringed at the words, "crowded gathering," you are my people. We are the people who have mastered the art of canceling plans. Whether it's citing a sudden onset of "introvertitis" or simply needing some quality time with our couch, we have perfected the art of gracefully backing out of social engagements, with minor guilt. My sweet little bubble. Yet, despite my inclination towards solitude, the importance of community and friendships remain undeniable. Let's break it down and remind ourselves why we need other people. Don't worry, you will find your tribe.
1. Emotional Support
While being alone allows me to binge watch my fave tv shows and scarf down snicky snacks with out guilt, a sanctuary of sorts, there are times when we all need a shoulder to lean on or a listening ear. My friends provide me with a network of emotional support, allowing me to share my burdens and celebrate my successes with those who understand me best.
2. They give me Diverse Perspectives:
Staying within my own little bubble limits my growth and understanding of the world. Engaging with my friends(it could be your team, your co-workers,etc) exposes me to diverse prospectives, challenging my beliefs and broadening my horizons. This is ESPECIALLY important in today's world. Everyone is afraid to say. how they feel for fear of being judged. You may not even realize it, but through these interactions, we gain invaluable insights and develop a richer understanding of the world around us. That may sound like a bunch of shit to an introvert- so hear me out. Keep one of your extraverted friends with you at these gatherings. They love being the center of attention, while we excel in the art of observation. This way, you can soak in all the nuances of human behavior like a detective, from the safety of becoming "the quiet until they get to know you," friend.
3. Shared Experiences:
Despite my love for solitude, there's something uniquely fulfilling about shared experiences. Whether its a cozy movie night with friends, or a lively conversation over coffee(red bull for me), these moments create lasting memories and deepen our connection with others.
4. Collective Strength:
Honey, in times of need- your friends, or a strong community can be your lifeline. From offering practical assistance to providing emotional encouragement, knowing that we're not alone in facing life's challenges gives us the courage to persevere and overcome obstacles. My girlfriends are also quite good at noticing if I've been MIA and can pull me out.
Conclusion:
As an introvert, my affinity for solitude is an integral part of who I am. However, hanging with my friends, my community, enriches my life in ways that solitude alone cannot. They provide me with support, expose me to ideas or perspectives I may not have thought of before, provide me with endless laughs when we all decide to try something new together. So, while I cherish my time at home, I also recognize the importance of nurturing the connections that bring warmth and depth to our lives. So, here's to all the introverted- extraverts out there, navigating the world one quiet moment at a time. May we continue to embrace our quirks, cancel plans with reckless abandon(kidding...kinda), and find the humor in the every day absurdities.
XO