10 Things I Say Vs. What I Actually Mean as an Introvert at a Party
What I ask: “Where’s your bathroom?” What I mean: “I’ve only been here for 20 minutes but I already need somewhere quiet to dissociate.”
SENSITIVE was named an Amazon Best Book of 2023! Click here to buy your copy.
Sometimes, it feels like the world doesn’t “get” you — especially if you’re an introvert. But we’re fellow “quiet ones,” so we get it. Here are some of our favorite stories about what it’s like being an introvert.
What I ask: “Where’s your bathroom?” What I mean: “I’ve only been here for 20 minutes but I already need somewhere quiet to dissociate.”
If you feel a pang of anxiety every time the holidays roll around — bracing yourself for another round of forced merriment — you’re not alone.
Your feelings are valid. It’s okay to recognize the exhaustion and the stress of the holiday season and to honor how you feel.
Feeling the need to fill the silence with things that don’t matter while not caring to talk about the things that do matter
The introverts in your life need permission to remain quiet at times and to spend time alone — without a guilt trip.
If I’m doing a relaxing activity, my brain goes: Why are you spending all day reading? You have places to go and things to accomplish.
Some people don’t understand why I’m so comfortable with silence. To them, silence is a problem they have to get rid of.
A busy store can be overstimulating for introverts, who prefer quieter places — or at least, who can only take so much of a busy one.
Overwhelmed introverts may gravitate toward the physical or metaphorical sidelines — the dark corners of the room or anywhere else they can “hide.”
If you’re a sensitive person, you may feel isolated because you don’t enjoy certain activities that others do. The good news: You’re not “crazy” or difficult.