How Did I Realise I was a Functioning Introvert?
I never saw myself as an introvert, in fact I know most people would have described me as an extrovert. Instead I have settled on a hybrid definition of a Functioning Introvert. The way I describe it as whilst I am comfortable with others and not socially awkward. The main difference for me is that I recharge my batteries by being alone.
World Introvert Day: January 2nd
Introverts worldwide get to celebrate World Introvert Day today on January 2, the day after the dreaded festivities of the past year ends, when they can finally get some peace and quiet to recharge their social batteries.
When and How Did I Realise?
But the more you read and explore you realise there’s a hybrid, a bridge between the two worlds. So how did I realise I was a functioning introvert?
It wasn’t until I was in my early fifties when our daughters were all grown up, I’d done my bit, and realised it was my time. Maybe it was menopause related – who knows?
I’d always loved a house full of noise, chatter and banter. I met and married “my person”, and he had three boys – so suddenly we were a family of seven. Plus brothers and their families and both sets of parents. It was a lot of people! Whilst I loved the idea of it and I still do. The practical side of all those people was overwhelming. So I busied myself in food preparation and retreated to the kitchen and disappeared to my bedroom.
I didn’t mean to be rude and I was genuinely happy to see everyone, but I needed some quiet to survive.
I found an amazing website called Introvert, Dear and it is brilliant. It covers so many relatable life lessons for introverts, and you should definitely check it out, but for me it didn’t tackle how to support someone like me, who isn’t anxious, a high performer, a self confessed people pleaser and a functioning introvert.
The Perfect Partner for a Functioning Introvert
I realise I have found the perfect balance. Married to an amazing man who loves to golf, and who I love to golf. The perfect balance – he gets to do what he loves and I get to spend time doing what I need to do. The peace and happiness in solace. Coming together when we want, happy that we have done what we need to do and happy to come together.
Perfect, right?
There are, of course world famous self confessed introverts, what’s interesting is what we can learn from them. I found this great article: Famous Introverts and What You Can Learn From Them
Or consider this…. and step away from the noise and the drama!
So today, on world Introverts Day, take a moment for those around you who may seem extrovert, and, who maybe may need a little peace and quiet.