While I occasionally have to convince people of the truth of this statement, I’m an introvert, and so is my girlfriend, Suzanne. That doesn’t mean that I’m shy or socially awkward (though the latter applies to me), but that I get my energy from spending time alone.
Introverted couples appear odd to many people. Suzanne and I enjoy time with each other. We also need time to ourselves to recharge.
I just took a desperately needed 4-day weekend from work. I was determined to actually recharge in these four days, so I did something unprecedented. I turned off my work email completely and removed the widget from my phone. I haven’t looked at it in four days. It’s been glorious. Part one of the recharge complete.
On the first day, I woke up when I felt like it and did whatever I wanted on my own. Suzanne was at work. The second day I spent by myself riding aimlessly about on my motorcycle. Yesterday I divided between errands and hanging out with Suzanne. Today I spent the day in the garage by myself working on my dirtbike. I’ve spent the vast majority of four days on my own. It’s been truly a wonder. I feel great, well rested, and ready to keep going.
Here’s why this works: we’re both introverts. Suzanne understands I’m not trying to get away from her, but rather I’m trying to get to me. She’s as comfortable on her own as I am and needs it as much as I do. Case in point – my day in the garage was accompanied by her reading on the sofa. We’re mutually comfortable with that need, which is what it takes to be in love with an introvert.
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