True Confession: Life as an Introvert
Here’s a quick confession. I’ve told readers before that I’m an introvert. That’s not the confession. I’ve learned lots of pastors are introverted.
In fact, I can appear fairly extroverted at times.
When I have a definite purpose and responsibility, I can be the most extroverted person in the room. On Sunday, for example, I work the crowd, shake tons of hands, and talk non-stop. It’s hard for people to believe I’m really an introvert. I go home exhausted on Sunday and need hours to recuperate. When I’m speaking at a conference, I work the room well.
Unfortunately, my introverted personality kicks in when I’m simply attending a gathering, especially with people I may not know.
Here’s the confession:
I’ve missed a few social gatherings due to my introversion.
Not only that…it gets worse…
There have been times, if attendance is optional, and Cheryl isn’t with me, I’ve intended to go to a social gathering, driven to the event, pulled into the parking lot, sat in my car for a few minutes, decided to drive around a little while, never went in…and missed the party completely. I skipped the fun, the opportunity to connect, and only left disappointed in myself.
Don’t misunderstand. I love people. I love meeting new people. I’m always glad when I go. I simply can’t push through the introversion sometimes.
This time of year, it’s easy for me to allow my introversion to keep me from enjoying the season.
Here’s my advice…
This is to me and anyone else who will admit to being this introverted:
Push through the introversion. Put your party hat on and do the social gathering. You’ll be glad once you did. I always am.
Anyone else brave enough to admit being this introverted?
By the way, you may want to read these posts about my introversion:
7 Pitfalls of Being an Introverted Pastor
How an Introvert Handles Awkward Situations
7 Ways Extroverts Can Help Introverts
7 Ways I Work with Introversion to Protect My Ministry
