When people used to tell me to think of the positive side of a bad situation, I’d grumble that when you need to resort to that sort of self-brainwashing, it’s a sure sign that things suck. But what a difference a pandemic can make.
As a natural-born introvert, I’ve used a lot of psychic energy in my lifetime trying to talk and mingle more than I’d care to, simply because it’s societally expected and was a requirement of my work. Being socially reticent could penalize me for everything from my kindergarten report card to my year-end performance review.
Susan Cain wrote a whole book about the phenomenon a few years ago called “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.” No less an authority than Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the father of “flow,” had this to say in his testimonial on the inside jacket:
Those who value a quiet, reflective life will feel a burden lifting from their shoulders when they read (this) paen to introversion – and will no longer feel guilty or inferior for having made the better choice.
Talk about “Eureka!” moments!
When I first heard the terms “social distancing” and “shelter in place,” they sounded serious, but not life-shattering. Little did I know I’d revel in them. For me, these unprecedented times are like livin’ in an introvert’s paradise.” The pandemic is even eradicating the dreaded FOMO syndrome: What can anyone miss out on when the world is shut down?
And so I happily eat my breakfast of yogurt, nuts, and berries, read The New York Times inside out, segue into books, writing, in-home exercise, a couple of drinks and dinner, followed by some high-quality video streaming and a great night’s sleep.
That’s as long as I stay healthy. If I catch the virus, I know I’ll bitch and moan like the world’s most pessimistic grump. But until then, I’m savoring every socially distanced moment.
I too salute you. From one introvert to another. I loved your post.
Thanks, Larry. Still loving this time to think and read and reflect. I guess it will get old very soon. But so far, it seems to having a silver lining for this introvert, and I’m cloaking myself in it.
Absolutely
Martin, it is always a pleasure to see a new article from you. While I am not a pure introvert (although I am uncomfortable being in a group of people even if I know them) there are those times when I am an extrovert. I hate peace and quiet. There will be plenty of peace and quiet when I am laying underneath the bushes. For now, I am miserable without recruiting. When I gave up writing I fell back in love with recruiting. Stay Safe!
Martin, sometimes, things will take its place in our world to change or draw our attention to the good. Loved your conversion to positivity.
Thanks, Lynn. Who would have thunk it would take a pandemic to flip me?!
Yup, from one introvert to another, Martin — I salute you!
I almost feel guilty that my life hasn’t changed that dramatically; I’ve worked from home for several years, and while I actually do enjoy networking — the face-to-face, out-of-the-house kind occasionally — I revel in returning home, closing the door, loving my dogs, and not having to talk with anyone for a while! (Does talking with my dogs count?)
Stay safe!
Talking with your dogs is permissible. But try not to get into an arguments with them. And drop the guilt. You’re making the best of a bad situation. No need to feel guilt over an innocent pleasure.