Dear Extroverts,

I don’t hate you; I just need time alone to recharge. This has become a common misconception about introverts and it’s really not cool. Instead, maybe try to respect our personal space and time alone. After I’ve finished binge watching some Gilmore Girls and reflected on my day, I’ll be as good as new to spend time around other people. I am not an unhappy sulking person. If anything, being alone makes me a happier more pleasant person to be around. I’m perfectly happy with a cup of coffee, reading a book or watching a movie by myself and there is nothing wrong with that! It’s not weird; it’s just the type of person I am. In fact, I can think of other reasons why I might be considered weird and they have nothing to do with me being an introvert (but that’s a different story).

I have all the friends I need, don’t worry! Having few friends is a choice I’ve made, so please do not pity me. I value quality over quantity. I’d rather have a small friend group that I relate to than a large group of friends that don’t even say my last name correctly (trust me, it happens). It’s the same way when it comes to dating. It will take some time for me to become comfortable around you. Let’s be honest, dating is super weird. It makes the process a lot less awkward if I can get to know you first.

If you are an extroverted person then good for you! This just means you recharge around people as opposed to recharging alone. Whether or not you are introverted or extroverted simply means you either gain energy around people or not around people. Neither is a negative term and I think we would all be better off by acknowledging this.

Sincerely, Introverts.