I am all for honoring your unique needs & preferences.
And even though they'll never be identical to anyone else's, as introverts, there are some key ones we have in common such as:
- Needing regular time and space alone to recharge, reflect, and focus, especially after socializing or being around many people for a certain amount of time.
- Preferring one on one and small groups interactions, and listening more than talking in larger groups or with new people.
- Needing time to process information and to think things through before responding.
That being said, we also need to be aware that we don't over-identify with these needs & preferences to the point where they create imbalance or limitations in our lives.
This might look like:
- Spending too much time alone or in the house to the point where the idea of socializing seems too much effort
- Declining or dismissing opportunities to collaborate or connect more with others (whether at work or in personal relationships)
- Avoiding events involving larger groups or new people (despite you having an interest in the topic or activity)
- Holding back your thoughts & feelings because you let everyone else speak first or because you're afraid that you won't communicate them well enough, or that you'll get judged
In the end, it's all about awareness; recognizing when you're honoring your needs & preferences in a way that feels good & empowering.
And when you're avoiding situations due to fear or negative assumptions (and habit) which will keep being reinforced unless you break it!
Can you relate?
I love helping introverts to clarify and honor what feels true for them, whilst also discovering infinite new territories of what's possible for them i.e. fulfilling their true potential!
If you'd like support with this, reach out to me and we'll explore if we're a good fit to work together!