Self-Compassion for Introverts
Karen Bluth reflects on introversion, social expectations, and how self-compassion can support a kinder relationship with your own nature.
By Karen Bluth, PhD
Published
Embracing your Introverted Self in an Extroverted WorldI consider myself an extreme introvert. That would shock most people because coworkers and friends would probably consider me pretty chatty and engaging. “You, an introvert?!” they exclaim in disbelief. But those who know me well – my partner, my kids – know that I desperately need downtime, time to be quiet, time to rest my brain, time to escape the constant motion of the rest of my life. If I go for any length of time without it, I get stressed and frenzied. Years ago I was married to a Protestant minister. After church on Sundays, there were frequently several people waiting to greet me, the Pastor’s Wife. I would make small talk wit…