Extroverts thrive in people dominated environments. They draw energy from others. Introverts require downtime to recharge their batteries so they can re-engage with others. Introverts often get a bad rap because of people's failure to fully understand the definition an introvert doesn't mean you don't like people or that you're shy. It simply means that the way you refuel and unwind often involves peace and solitude.
Like many of you, I have learned a lot of valuable life lessons over the years. Several of these lessons are closely related to introversion. Here are the top eight truths I've discovered:
1. A few close friends are enough
True friends are hard to come by. Even if you only have one real friend, that is more valuable than 100 acquaintances.
2. Your quiet nature won't be appreciated by all
That's totally fine. Never change for anyone. The moment you feel like you need to prove yourself to someone, it's time to reconsider the relationship.
3. Choose people and environments that best fit you
If your 'friends' are always trying to change you, change friends. If the places you frequent leave you feeling drained and unhappy, don't go there anymore. It's as simple as that.
4. Think before you speak and act
Your actions and words have a large effect on others no matter how what you say. Some people can be pretty careless when it comes to their words and actions. Your choice of words are signs of your intelligence or your ignorance.
5. Learn to enjoy spending time with yourself
It's healthy to spend some time alone. Alone time can help you recharge after a long day. You learn a lot about yourself when spending some time alone.
6. Be patient
Not everything has to go from 0-100 real quick every time things get heated. If something is wrong, breathe and take time to fix the situation peacefully.
7. Be open to new ideas
Though it can be tough to do sometimes, I've always found that when I open my mind, I've reaped a lot of rewarding benefits. There is much to be gained from opening the door to your mind and letting new ideas and beliefs come in.
8. Accept who you are
For many people including introverts, self-acceptance is hard to come by on a good day. It's tenuous, a glass with tiny cracks, at best. On a bad day, when you've made a mistake or two, don't like how you look or feel absolutely miserable, your self-acceptance is in shards.
Fortunately, self-acceptance is something we can nurture. Look at it as a skill that you can practice versus an innate trait that you either have or don't.
