Introvert Part 2 ~
Last week I shared with you that I had come across an article by Ethan Sterling in my newsfeed that really reflected who I am when it comes to being an introvert. I shared my thoughts of the first five habits from his article 9 quirky habits of introverts that people tend to misunderstand. This week, I want to reflect on the remaining four. So, here we go.
Internal processing: I am not sure if I have ever been able to turn off my brain. I think I process 24/7. I am reflecting, creating, pondering, observing, and questioning. People know me for being effective and efficient with my time and energy. I complete tasks in a timely. l can process and scan an idea quickly and come up with a myriad of ways to create something new, establish a system, or solve a problem. And, all the while, I am very quiet. I may even be seen as disengaged or uninterested. But actually, I am on hyperdrive. Even as I sit here in a coffee shop, I am processing the space and people around me while drafting the next sentence in my head or stimulating another direction in which to take this blog.
Overstimulation can be overwhelming: Well, after reading the sentence above, you may think that I overstimulate myself. That may be true. But I have control over the stimulation that is going on internally. I do not have control over the stimulation going on all around me. As you may have guessed, I do not like crowds. A crowd for me is about a dozen people or more. I like quiet. I like being in nature. Maybe the reason I am so overstimulated is because I am already so stimulated internally. Regardless, I am very easily overwhelmed.
Enjoyment of solo activities: I love to walk and hike. I love going on long drives. Jigsaw puzzles can keep me captivated for hours on end for days on end. Going to the gym and working out on my own. The only activity I can think of right now that I need someone to do is play tennis. I have not played tennis in years and years and years. But I used to be pretty good. I have looked for tennis classes through parks and rec, the local community college, and at the local tennis club, but I am struggling to take that step of actually signing up. It is really something I would love to do. That inner child in me needs to be quiet and let me try.
Listening is their forte: This is a blessing and a curse. Listening is the art of listening to understand. It is not the art of formulating your response while the other person is still talking. I have listened to so many parents and students as they traverse the world of disability and special education. I listen to understand their pain, struggles, grief, and loss of dreams. Yet, this forte of listening has provided a stage for the inner child. Her voice is strong. Her fear, hurt, and ability to run often overcome the adult me who keeps me moving forward. I do need to listen to her, and I need to reassure her that we do not need to be afraid anymore. No one will hurt us again. I will keep her safe.
When I reflect on these last four quirky habits of mine, I feel peaceful; as if someone gets me. My strength comes from within; when I am in my element of introvertedness. I also reflect on why I purchased a home in a 55+ community for active adults. Now, I am incredibly active; however, I am active in my own space. Yet, I have no doubt, people wonder about that woman who lives in that big house by herself. Who is she? I do not see her other than when she walks her dogs. Why is she so secretive? Well, I am an introvert.
~ julie
If you feel so inclined, please reply with your thoughts.
Note: JM Lane is NOT a mental health professional, nor does she carry a license to practice medicine. Posts, blogs, and content are based on JM Lane’s personal experiences, perceptions, and reflections. By no means does any material convey what others should or should not do.