Everyone wants to be an introvert, it seems, so much so that sub-categories have been invented to allow more people to identify thus, such as the “Outgoing introvert”.
Confession: the word “introvert” has been added to my list of “shudder-worthy words and phrases”, joining the likes of “unpack” (in the metaphorical context – I’ve nothing against the physical act of unpacking, say, a suitcase), and “nom-nom” (arghh!), to name a couple.
At this point, I should say that my dislike of the whole introvert celebration is not because I’m unsympathetic to introversion as an emotional state. Often enough I identify with the thoughts and feelings described in the articles. I had to be cajoled into attending party situations from the moment I received my first batmitzvah disco invitation at the age of 10. I’m happier when I limit weekend catch-ups to one arrangement per day. I disappear into my head on a regular basis and am frequently surprised to discover my actual location on returning to the physical world.
I can also see that these articles are probably reassuring to those who experience these feelings and reactions, and, potentially helpful to those who wish to understand those who live at the introverted end of the personality spectrum.
However.
I feel that many of the observations made in these articles are designed to excuse bad behaviour. Don’t return people’s text messages? Cancel plans because you need “alone time”? Both ok, apparently. It’s not rude if you’re an introvert.
Ummm sorry, but actually, it is rude. Having been on the receiving end of such behaviour, that’s how it feels. If you know you’ve got limited capacity for socialising then make your arrangements within the parameters of what you can manage. If you feel invaded by text messages set aside a time for dealing with them in one hit. There are ways to maintain your own sanity whilst still behaving in a considerate way towards others.
End of rant.