The more people I meet, the more I realize how few understand the life of an introvert. There are so many misconceptions about introversion that people don't realize.
Being introverted and shy are not the same thing. Introverts do not fear social activities, they just prefer to do some things alone. Introverts can be shy, but not all introverts are.
Being introverted doesn't mean I hate being around people. Actually, I really enjoy having company. I love spending time with friends and meeting new people.
So many people think that there is a distinct line between introverts and extroverts, but what you don't realize is that there are people you interact with every day that can be considered introverts. You cannot "see" introversion. The biggest distinction between introversion and extroversion presents itself in how one receives energy from social interaction.
Those that that are extroverted receive energy from other people. The more interaction they get from other people, the more excitement and energy they are fed. Social interaction is almost addicting.
On the other end of the spectrum, introverts receive their energy from being alone. They function fine in social situations, but it is exhausting. They will typically need a time to "recharge" afterwards.
The world definitely tends to cater to these extroverted individuals. As most people already know, life doesn't offer very many "recharge" periods. And when you do get the chance to recharge, people will tend to think something is wrong. In most social situations, it's taboo to want to be alone. People leave parties just to text the people they were just with. You're expected to be active on social media 24/7. Sometimes it seems like people want you to go to every event planned in existence.
But here are a few little tips to my fellow introverts: You can say no to that invite to the party you didn't want to go to anyway. You don't have to answer that text. It's okay to schedule time for yourself.
You, my friend, can survive in this extroverted world. Take it a day at a time.
