Sometimes it's really hard being an extrovert who also totally relishes time alone. You relate to your extroverted friends so well, but you kind of envy your introverted friends because canceled plans make you do a happy dance too. You're an introverted extrovert--the best of both worlds.
*cue the Hannah Montana theme song*
So the key to your happiness -- and everyone else's for that matter -- is balance. I know it sounds cheesy, but trust me, finding balance within all aspects of your life truly makes a difference in your overall happiness. And as an introverted extrovert, a lot of that balance comes from a solid self-care routine. So as Mental Health Awareness Month draws to a close, here are some tips and ideas on what you can do to create your own self-care routine and finally find your ~balance~.
Let's Get Physical
Whether you're into yoga, weights, HIIT classes, or running, get active. Whatever physical activity you enjoy, make the time to do it. Part of taking care of yourself is making sure that you're living your healthiest life. Workouts give you the opportunity to connect with yourself and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Plus, working out releases endorphins. Here's Elle Woods to explain more:
On top of the emotional and physical benefits of working out, you can also add in a meditation practice to your cool downs to give your workouts a spiritual component. There are tons of apps and free meditation resources out there that help you wind down and focus. So let your body do that yoga.
Treat Yo Self
While that workout really jumpstarts your journey into balance, it can't get you there by itself. As an extrovert, I definitely get a lot of my energy from spending time with other people. While introverts come back from a night out exhausted, I find myself charged and ready to take on the world. But that doesn't mean that I don't need some alone time to recharge as well. A huge part of finding balance is giving yourself the time and permission to be alone.
For all my Twin Peaks fans out there, Dale Cooper says it best, "Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don't plan it, don't wait for it, just let it happen. It could be a new shirt at the men's store, a catnap in your office chair, or two cups of good hot black coffee." If there's one person who understands the concept of self-care, it's Dale Cooper.
I like to think of my alone time as a time to pamper myself. Sometimes that's taking a bubble bath with a nice glass of wine, other times it's reading a book with a few candles lighting my room. Although one of my favorite self-care options is drinking a cup of tea while watching an episode of The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross because he is the ultimate example of a happy, relaxed dude.
In other words,
Whatever it is that you find yourself wanting to do alone, do it. Make the time to pamper yourself any way you see fit. You won't find balance without giving yourself some time to breathe first.
Socialize
Now back to that whole "getting energy from being around people" thing. Sometimes, it can be super tempting to settle into your little alone time nest and cancel plans. But the thing is, as extroverts, if we aren't around people, we don't have balance. In order to achieve that balance, we have to be around others, but we need to surround ourselves with other people who make us feel good. Cut out those people who don't put good back into your life. That's your first big step in self-care involving others.
Go out and socialize every now and then. Whether it's a coffee date with your bestie or a night on the town with your girl gang, give yourself the chance to have some fun. Throw a slumber party for your girls and blast tunes from the 90s all night. Go for a hike with a few friends. Whatever it is, make time to be around others.
So I'm sure that you've figured out the key to finding balance is by now. But I'm going to spell it out for you anyway. Make time for yourself. Make time to exercise. Make time to be alone. Make time to be with your friends. MAKE TIME. That paper you're stressing about? Doesn't matter if you don't take care of yourself. That job interview your so anxious over? Making time for yourself will give you an edge. You'll be happier, more confident, and just put out better vibes overall.
