Social events are finally happening, and it has been a joyous reentry for me. But not everyone is having the same reaction. Those who are more introverted are feeling the hesitation to rejoin the mix, while others are going all in.
If you stop and notice, there are lessons from our time of restricted interactions. I have an extroverted and introverted side to me, so both are being activated – with some interesting results. How can we be mindful about what we have learned and take these lessons forward?
Here are some thoughts:
YOUR EXTROVERTED OR INTROVERTED NATURE IS MORE NOTICEABLE
How do you identify yourself as extroverted or introverted? I was solidly in the introverted camp when young, moved to extroversion in my career and now seem to move between the two more fluidly. I liked the down time of the pandemic – I found it soothing and restoring. I am also ready to reactivate my extroverted side, but I want to retain a balance.
Those who love to socialize are thrilled to reestablish their connections. But those who like the slower, calmer, quieter person-centered lifestyle are not so ready to move back in the mainstream. Honor where you are – it’s all fine.
NOTICE THE SUBTLE PLEASURES OF BEING TOGETHER
There is a subtlety to being in person that you simply don’t have on Zoom or other mediums. Online interactions have a sterile, clinical side, providing a barrier you can literally hide behind. From dressing nicely only from the waist up to multi-tasking, people found ways to get around really being together. It was less personal, more formal.
In-person, I am loving things I didn’t pay attention to before. There are the funny, subtle responses you have with each other simply by paying attention to face and body expressions, like a sideways glance, nods, flirty eyes, nudges and laughter. There is the happy energy exchange you can’t have on Zoom, with little one liners that get repeated, teasing, hanging out and joking around. Notice and really feel the pleasure of one another’s company.
BE MORE INTENTIONAL
You have the ability be more conscious about how you show up socially. Instead of rushing in like nothing happened, you can decide how you want to be. Take the time to consider what is important to you now.
Choose what has meaning. You don’t have to say yes to everything – pace yourself. I was going full steam a year ago, and life was rushing past me. I want to savor and enjoy each event with more intention. Those who have enjoyed the solitude will have to push themselves to reenter. Be considerate of yourself. What do you want?
Now that we can reenter a more normal social life, be more conscious of your choices in how you show up. Honor your extroverted or introverted nature as you rejoin socially. Be aware of the wonderful subtleties in group interaction and enjoy them. Most of all, be intentional in how you become more social.
If you would like help to reengage socially, reach out. My Transformational Coaching and Therapy is designed to meet you where you are. Go to www.spectrumtransformation.com and use my Free Consultation link. I’d be honored to hear from you.
