As I embrace my highly-sensitive nature, I think it’s time that I also embrace a certain word. There’s nothing wrong with this word, but apparently I resisted claiming this word as part of my identity for a long time.
Now I think I am ready to face the music. Here we go:
It is possible that I am an introvert.
There, I said it!
Despite spending my life idealizing extroverted behavior, such as people who hang out with a gaggle of friends all the time, or the “man’s man” alpha male type who is always leader of the group, my highly-sensitive tendencies have brought me in a different direction. Â Certainly as a teacher and performer, I have some extroverted leanings. It could even be argued that I’m a bit of an exhibitionist, judging by the satisfaction I seem to get from sharing about my life on this blog.
At the same time, it’s time to end the self-torture. As I wrote last time, it seems I generally recharge the best in solitude. This fits the description of an introvert.*
To be clear, my hope is that I will use this realization to have even happier times with other people. Honoring what works for me can only help. I’m not wanting to get further away from people. On the contrary, I want to be my best self, my happiest self when I am around them!
Armed with this knowledge and ready to make the most of it, I look forward to good times ahead with people. As I wrote a few months back,
With my personal happiness front and center in my mind, and the tools with which to foster it, I am enthusiastic about the possibilities of interacting with others and enjoying a life of Happiness, Joy, and Adventure in the wonderful world of humanity.
*Awhile ago I conjectured that I am actually an “ambivert,” or someone who is qualities of both introvert and extrovert. I’m sure there’s truth to this, but right now it’s important that I finally embrace my introvert side without judgement.