In this frenzied world of constant contact, I don't think it's an understatement to say that introverts have it tough. With endless communication, some of us feel the need to retreat back into our shells for a spell and regenerate...I mean, I would know. Nearly every day I encounter a smooth conversationalist who wants to politely make small talk when all I can offer is a proper and accurate assessment of the weather. Or, I'll casually eavesdrop on a group of students before class starts and wonder, "How the heck do they do that?", you know, all those quick nonchalant exchanges of wit about their weekend. This isn't to suggest that introverts aren't snappy speakers, I know many that are, however, it is not my expertise to be one. But back to the point, it does seem that extroverts have all the luck- they're assertive, natural networkers, and unafraid to use their voice. They make friends easily, are well-liked, and jump into the social scene without the tiniest bit of hesitation. Introverts live internally, in their own remote worlds and comforts, usually happily content. Being extroverted is obviously appealing (Who wouldn't want to skip awkward silences and blunders?) but unbeknownst to most, being introverted has its own set of pros.
1. You don't feel guilty or experience any ounce of FOMO staying home on a Friday night. Just drive home from work or school, pick up some take-out, jump into some PJ's and watch Homeland (The Sopranos, Californication or Saturday Night Live) for the next 5 hours before you accidentally fall asleep with popcorn in your hair.
2. You have closer relationships with your (few) friends. Personally, I have four friends that I really really love. I talk to most of them daily, if not weekly and we're incredibly versed on one another's life and current standings. If I had more friends, this type of intimacy would be forfeited and although I'm always open to the possibility of acquiring new pals, it's probably unlikely so it's a really great thing to have that fantastic four.
3. You rarely feel lonely. I could occupy myself for an outstanding amount of time. Whether I'm watching some obscure documentary that goes right over my head, reading a stack of books by my bedside so it's not only decorative, or trying to make chocolate chip cookies from scratch without burning the bottoms. You get the point. The activities for one are endless on an introvert's to-do list.
So, there you have it. Being introverted can feel frustrating when you can't properly weave the myriad thoughts from your mind into actual, spoken aloud words. However, there are some serious benefits to being this type of person- you're at peace with just yourself and don't act a certain way just to make acquaintances. To all the introverts out there, you're special too.
