avatarAnnick Batamuliza

Summary

The author, an extrovert, is exploring and appreciating the benefits of solitude, questioning if this newfound preference for quiet time over social activities signifies a shift towards introversion.

Abstract

The article titled "Am I Becoming Introvert?" delves into the author's recent discovery of the value of solitude. As someone who traditionally gained energy from social interactions, the author now finds peace and self-awareness in spending time alone. This shift has led to a more reflective and tranquil life, with less emphasis on filling weekends with plans and more on enjoying personal space. The author ponders whether this enjoyment of solitude is a temporary phase or a more permanent change in personality. Citing the benefits of solitude such as self-reconnection, confidence, perspective, peace of mind, and clarity, the author leans into the joys of introversion while acknowledging that life has different phases that may require different aspects of one's personality.

Opinions

  • The author believes that solitude is a necessary component of life, essential for personal growth and well-being.
  • They express that while extroversion was previously their primary mode, introverted tendencies can emerge and become dominant at different stages of life.
  • The author suggests that embracing solitude can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself, including dreams and aspirations.
  • Solitude is seen as a source of self-confidence and a way to gain perspective on one's life journey.
  • The author values the peace of mind and clarity that comes from spending time alone, contrasting this with their previous stress when lacking social plans.
  • Quiet time is associated with freedom, as per Arthur Schopenhauer's philosophy.
  • The author refutes the misconception that introversion equates to being antisocial, emphasizing that introverts have a different social preference, favoring intimate gatherings over large parties.
  • The article concludes with a reflective note on the impermanence of life, encouraging readers to embrace the present, find peace, and spread love.

Am I Becoming Introvert?

Enjoying solitude without feeling lonely

I am getting to understand and accept that solitude is necessary at some point in our lives.

As an extrovert I usually get my energy turned up while interacting with other human beings. But now I am discovering with surprise the benefits of getting some time off the “people”. Creating one’s own space of wellness independently of anyone else is crucial at some point in life. Because at the end of the day: we came to this world alone and we will go back again alone. No one will be following whomever in the grave. We will all die by ourselves. Okay enough with the morbid part.

I think we have several life phases, each phase requiring a certain highlight of the many facets of our personalities.

There’re the two big personality types: the extroverts and the introverts. But I believe we all have both parts and they come on stage regarding which phase of our life journey we are crossing.

Lately I’ve been enjoying time in calmness and tranquility. Alone but not lonely. Time in chosen solitude. I now make sure I have some time during the day when I’m just me with myself. Like right now for example while typing these lines. And I am deeply and truly enjoying this.

Few months ago, If by any unfortunate reason/s I would find myself with no plans for the weekend I would be all stressed out, sad and finding ways to fill it out with well planned activities. Now? Well, the less the plans I have the better. And that feels so peaceful. I mean, I still have fixed, non flexible plans/things to do from my role as a mummy of a 4 years old boy, a full-time job, but globally less of the social gatherings, dinner party arrangements etc..

So now I’m wondering: is my introvert facet taking over? Will this be my present, future nature or is it just a phase…? Time will tell :)

Meanwhile I will be enjoying the joys of introversion. As the German philosopher Arthur S. said: there is freedom in solitude.

A man can be himself only so long as he is alone, and if he does not love solitude, he will not love freedom, for it is only when he is alone that he is really free — Arthur Schopenhauer

Embracing solitude has some advantages among others:

  • Reconnecting with oneself. Being with yourself reminds you of who you really are on a deep level. It reminds you of your dreams and aspirations.
  • Provides a certain sense of self confidence. Being with yourself tends to make you realize your strengths.
  • It enhances your perspective on how you’ve done until now and the way forward.
  • Priceless peace of mind: there is power in silence and disconnection. Try and see by yourself ;)
  • Improved clarity and focus in professional and personal life

Many people believe that introversion is about being antisocial, and that’s really a misperception. Because actually it’s just that introverts are differently social. So they would prefer to have a glass of wine with a close friend as opposed to going to a loud party full of strangers. — Susan Cain

Wherever you are while reading this, realise that at this exact moment: a life is brought to this earth, a life is gone from this world. You are still here, remember someone care about you even if you may forget that. Chill, breathe, be in peace and give love and peace by your vibe. All is as it is, and it is imperfectly perfect.

One love 💜

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©️ copyright KeepingItRealWithAnnick

Introvert
Lifestyle
Mindfulness
Peace
Self
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