My husband thinks I don’t like surprises.
I wasn’t sure where he got that idea since I do find it delightful to get unexpected gifts. Then I read a recent blogpost about what introverts need in order to be happy and learned yet another lesson about my personal introverted style. I’ll share that post below.
Who is an Introvert
“Introvert: “a typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone”
Introspective: “characterized by examination of one’s own thoughts and feelings, thoughtfully reflective”.
~ Miriam Webster”
Since I am writing explicitly to introverts, does that include you? Overall, I’m referring to the regular English use of the word, so if you think of yourself as an introvert, then, yes, I’m including you. You may also have extravert skills, especially for work, but if you treasure turning inward for a few hours to recharge your battery, you have that key introvert skill which can be very useful when considering climate actions.
Surprises that Delight and those that Don’t
Back to my husband, who is of course right when he spots me resisting certain kind of surprises. One of the leading blogs for introverts (Jenn Granneman’s “Introvert, Dear”) helped me with its list of things introverts need to be happy. One jumped out at me: “Time alone to dive into interests.” Other items also involved uninterrupted time alone to focus on recharging and personal projects. What my husband saw as my disliking surprises was how disappointed I look when something, even a fun thing, interrupts one of those times of personal focus.
Facing Climate Choices Thoughtfully
I heartily recommend checking out Jenn’s blogpost on the ‘needs’ of introverts*. I used it out as a checklist for what conditions might keep me “happy” with more creative ways to recharge on my own.
Moving forward, I will be following what introverts are sharing that might help with climate change choices. Do consider subscribing for new ideas (scroll below). Even small actions, when based on thoughtful reflection, can add to your life and you’ll be doing your bit to help the planet.
