Do Introverts Dread Returning to Normal After Lockdown?

Are introverts less jazzed about life going back to normal now that pandemic restrictions have loosened?

I realize that for some of you, lockdowns are well behind you. But where I am in Canada, we’re only starting to see the light.

I’m still in the midst of a strict lockdown and stay at home order.

For other introverts, life has only partially returned to normal. Perhaps, you can eat out at a restaurant, but you must still work from home.

Or you can have social gatherings, but they are more tight-knit than before. Maybe, you’re still milking the “keeping my bubble small” excuse for staying home.

Whatever stage of reopening you’re in, you may have mixed feelings about life returning to normal.

How introverts really feel about reopening

Many people assume that introverts want to stay in our bubble, working from home in our pjs and spending weekends in solitude. But it’s not as simple as that.

Many introverts have been cut off from the one or two friends they hold dear, creating an unbearable sense of isolation.

Others have missed out on social activities that double as an outlet for their passions, such as music or outdoor adventures.

This is tough since introverts tend to thrive in social environments where we have a defined role, or an activity we genuinely enjoy.

And what about the introverts who are overwhelmed by a full house bustling with children, pets, and partners who want constant attention?

Indeed, lockdown has not been an introvert’s paradise. And yet, in some ways it has been.

What introverts will miss after reopening

It’s been nice to enjoy a slower pace. It’s also been validating to have the rest of the world see things from our perspective.

People started to appreciate the value in a quiet life. It felt good to know we weren’t the only ones staying home on a Saturday night.

No longer labelled as weird, anti-social, or uncool, the introvert’s way of life became the norm.

For me, lockdown made it clear that many of the activities of my past were unsatisfying. I cannot not live without connection, but I can live without so much travel and busyness.

So, there’s no black and white answer to the question of whether introverts dread returning to normal.

That’s why I was a little leery when reporter Jason Osler reached out to me for an interview on this very topic for CBC radio.

Luckily, we were able to explore the topic from different angles, rather than paint introverts as hermits who never want to come out of our cave. Have a listen if you like.

Go Here to Listen to The CBC Interview

We start at the 12:42 mark.

Love,

Michaela

P.S. If you’re new to the blog, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Michaela Chung, author of The Irresistible Introvert and The Year of The Introvert, and creator of this amazing innie community we have here. For several years, I’ve been building up a labyrinth of introvert resources that will take you on a magical journey toward more confidence, connection, and self-love. Start with this free Introvert Connection Guide.