Are you an introvert or an extrovert? An ambivert? Shy? Quiet? The retiring type, who is a secret powerhouse of sexy witty wisdom, deep-down inside? I feel ya! I, too, am an introvert, truly, at heart. And it ain't easy, I know, especially living in Los Angeles, when it's very important tope able to articulate who you are and what you do at the drop of a hat.
So, what do you do when you the day has got you down, you can't compete with the world rampaging above and below and around you, and you just want to crawl under the nearest throw rug and take a nap?
You have to I feel, quite basically, practice honoring who you really and truly are. (I know!) And know that you are still a badass, life of the party, or not. I know. So easily said, right? The book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain, was extraordinarily helpful to me, and I cannot recommend it enough. In fact, I will say, it has given me great relief. Not only does she speak about some (surprisingly) well-known introverts throughout our history, she gives practical advice on how to cope when you all you want to do is retreat.
Her number one tip is to DO that. If you have a long day, where you were were in meetings or on the phone a lot, just a lot of interaction, then just try to grab an hour before dinner, maybe when you can just read in bed.
If going to a party solo is totally overwhelming to you, maybe try going there sooner, rather than later. Get the lay of the land, talk up the host, and stake a few possible new pals, or at least, willing participants to chat with. If you want to, just go back home to that book!
The point is, getting out of your comfort zone as an introvert doesn't always work the way it does with extroverts or ambiverts. If it doesn't "feel" right to you, you won't get anything out of the experience, no matter what it is. Yes, feeling uncomfortable is normal when trying new things. But life is way too short to not trust your deepest instincts, and to suffer because of them.
Introverts, unite! And buy this damn book, below, it will change your life. :)
