A lot of people think being an introvert means you are anti-social. You tell them that you’re an introvert, and they’ll say something like, “Oh, you must hate people,” or “Please don’t consume my blood!” While these comments are frustrating, it’s important to remember that being an introvert is nothing to be ashamed of - it just means you live a lifestyle that’s a little different from that of humans that still have beating hearts. As an introvert, you know that self care is important - so here are five tips to keep you functioning!
Don't be afraid to say no!
Here's something I wish I was told more when I was growing up: if someone asks you to hang out at a restaurant that has garlic or mirrors, YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO. Not everyone enjoys looking for their reflection, only to see the blank wall behind them, reminding you that you don't have a soul - and that's okay! Telling someone that you can't hang out doesn't make you heartless - the curse that trapped your heart among the roots of an ancient boxelder maple tree does.
Take time to be by yourself.
You're an introvert. You need to recharge. If that means going back to the grave your body was supposedly buried in, do that! If you feel like climbing into the coffin hidden within a secret wall in your basement, make sure you have your favorite Netflix shows queued up! While alone time can sometimes feel selfish, it is a necessary step to take if you want to get back to hanging out with and consuming the blood of human mortals again.
Leave, if you have to.
I was once on a midnight hike with my friends, and it lasted longer than I expected. Realizing that the sun would be coming up in a few hours, I fled. My friends were understandably annoyed - I got several texts asking why I shrieked and turned into a bat without saying anything. After I explained that my skin would literally be burnt from my very bones if it came in contact with the sun, they understood. This also shows why it's important to have friends that understand your social needs - because they're the ones who stick with you, whether you're in "human" or in bat form.
Don't get trapped in your thoughts.
While alone time is important, it is essential that you don't your mind race unchecked. The last time I did that I found my thoughts focused on all the awkward things I've ever done. As my awkwardness spans several centuries, I quickly got lost in the caverns of my own mind. Once I stepped outside, I found dozens of dead crows laying in my front yard. I realized my mistake - I let my wild thoughts take the best of me! Now I've learned the importance journaling - or finding someone to talk to - so I don't unleash my telekinesis on the innocent creatures in my immediate surroundings.
It can be hard to remember to listen to yourself. You might be so focused on acting normally at a bar that you don't realize you're being impaled in the chest by a wooden stake. This is why it's so important to be aware of how you react to things! If being impaled in the chest by a wooden stake turns your body to dust, politely explain this to your friends the next time they want to go to that pop up downtown that impales you in the chest with a wooden stake. If you don't feel like avoiding places altogether, your friends should understand if you ask for water or soda instead of getting impaled in the chest with a wooden stake.
Recognize what drains you.
Comments
Post a Comment