4 Misconceptions About Introverts in Quarantine

With all this talk about isolation and social distancing in light of the Coronavirus pandemic, it was naturally assumed by the entire world, introverts included, that it's the year of the introverts. Endless memes swarmed social media about how an introvert's normal lifestyle has become the new cool. We introverts are guilty of sharing a few too! 

It is sufficient for a good laugh in a time of uncertainty. However, as reality set in, it would seem that things are not as rainbows and butterflies for introverts as everyone expected. There is no doubt quarantine is hell for extroverts who thrive on socializing, but you would be surprised how difficult it can be for introverts as well. Check out these 4 misconceptions about introverts in quarantine:

1. Introverts Are Living the Time of Their Lives
No, we are definitely not having a blast and living our dream life during this crisis. In fact, it's safe to assume that no one is. The advantage introverts have in such times though is the ability to entertain ourselves by small activities without help from others; that is when we're not too anxious or stressed about everything that's going on! It's ups and downs for everyone. 

No matter how much of a comfort zone your home is to you, being stripped of all basic freedom to leave it when you want to is enough reason for anyone to be on edge. Our human need for freedom of choice plays a huge role here, no matter our personality types.

2. Introverts Don't Miss Socializing
This could seem contradictory to some people, but it only goes hand in hand with the misconception that introverts hate socializing. The truth is we don't, we just want to do it on our own terms, in small doses, and preferably when we have recharged our social energy levels. 

Introverts have activities they like to do outdoors that complement their personalities and they have close friends that feel like home. Who wouldn't miss that? 

3. Introverts Don't Crave Alone Time During Lockdown
This stands for introverts who are self-isolating with their loved ones in the same place, especially with extroverts in the house. It's even harder when there are extroverted kids around. Suddenly, they are at home together all the time. Imagine the chaos in the eyes of the introvert in this situation, so it makes sense they would need their alone time. 

It can be a challenge to get it though and set healthy social boundaries when everyone is stuck in the same place and dealing with the pandemic in different ways. The only solution to this situation is kind, effective communication and honesty. Your mental health is a priority here. 

4. Introverts Cannot Feel Burnout Since They Are Already at Home 
There are lots of reasons for an introvert to feel burned out, and socializing too much is just one of them. Stress and anxiety are some of the major quarantine challenges we all have to face nowadays, and they can make an introvert feel completely depleted even if their alone time is granted. Furthermore, missing our normal lives and boring daily routines can hit us hard regardless of the fact that we're supposedly at our ultimate comfort zone. 

We're all in this together and we're all doing the best we can. Stay safe.

By: Amal Ghali