Recharging in Solitude: Why Introverts Need Rest to Thrive
An introvert’s need for rest and rejuvenation is often misunderstood or overlooked because we value constant engagement, conversation, and stimulation. Introverted people may require more time to rest, recharge, and reflect.
You have to learn how to make time for yourself in a way that is beneficial to you. Every day I leave work, whether signing off from work at home or leaving the office, I feel exhausted. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoy the people I work with, what we do, and how we may contribute to changing the world. However, I don’t want to talk to another soul.
I often leave work with my coworker, and I LOVE talking to her. Still, lately, I’ve been feeling bad because I am constantly scrolling through my emails, responding to text messages, or looking for where to fit a nap before I go to my internship. I even try to force myself to place my phone in my pocket to converse with her, but I default to playing a mindless game on my phone. After analyzing this behavior, which I don’t want to be taken out of context, I realize that what I’m yearning for is the time when I’m doing no talking after I’ve left my workplace for the day.
I started to notice that this was a typical behavior when a family member tried speaking to me today about a fascinating subject, and I did not have any words. I was disengaged. I wanted to have a lot to say, but I felt a little burnt out from the day. But why? I felt burnt out because I had several meetings throughout the day. I’ll explain more later. I ended up telling this family member that I needed time to myself, and I would reconvene after practicing a little mindfulness, which right now, for me, is writing this blog.
So why do I feel burned out after meetings? Why do I have a problem with engaging in meaningful conversations after being at work all day? The simple answer is that I’m an introvert, and I need a break. As an introvert, I expend all my social energy when engaging with others. A low social battery causes me to feel overwhelmed, tired, and sometimes even irritable. Breaks and getting rest are how I recuperate and reenergize before engaging in more verbal activities with others. Spending time alone or in other quiet environments can assist me with jumping in and engaging in the following conversations.
So, if you have a friend or coworker who seems checked out for the day, check the calendar and see if they had any breaks. Chances are they are yearning for rest.
Introverts require rest periods to maintain their well-being and thrive in a world that often prioritizes extroverted qualities. By understanding and honoring their need for solitude and quiet reflection, introverts can harness their unique strengths and contribute meaningfully to their lives and the world around them. So, the next time you see an introvert taking some time to rest, remember that they’re not being antisocial – they’re simply recharging their batteries so they can shine brightly the next time you see them.
