Help! I think I’m turning into an introvert!

 I am most definitely a people person. I love meeting new people and I’m usually full of questions wanting to know their stories, what makes them tick. My brain likes to make connections and I am genuinely interested.

I guess that makes me an extrovert!

I thrive on social interaction.

But the longer lockdown goes on the happier I feel being cocooned in my own little world on my own with a good book – I think I’ve already read 8 this year and it is only the beginning of March; I usually only manage a couple a month.

Am I becoming an introvert?

Or is there more going on?

I still love meeting people, talking to people, in fact I’ve joined a local book swapping group on Facebook and am currently messaging someone I don’t know in person arranging collection of a book I’m giving away. Unfortunately, she lives in the next village and it’s just a little too far to walk to for a drop off.

And that’s the issue I suppose, I’m having to make excuses to go out anywhere. It’s been drummed into us that we need to stay at home, save the NHS, not make unnecessary journeys.

During the enforced confinement I’ve decided I quite like my cosy little home; I don’t really need to leave so I’m retreating from the world only venturing out into cyber space for the odd zoom meeting. Does that satisfy my need for human interaction? Most days the answer is a resounding yes!

And it’s cold and dull outside so why bother?

Of course, I do go out, Friday’s market is a highlight of my week because I get to talk to so many people. I regularly chat to all the stall holders and try to buy from as many as I can.

Our church is open and although we don’t congregate for coffee as we used to do after a service, plenty of us gather near the door on leaving, often still with masks on, chatting for a bit, longer when the sun shines.

That will make a big difference, warmer weather and less restrictions will be a marvellous combination.

There is light at the end of the tunnel, infection rates are declining and more of my friends are getting vaccinated every week. Soon we will be able to emerge like butterflies.

I’m certain I won’t have forgotten my people skills but breaking out will still be tentative.

Some people are incredibly anxious about going out into the big wide world again and although I worry that I might be turning into an introvert just writing these thoughts down have made me realise I will inevitably blossom again in the milder weather.

Youngest son recently went back to uni so my life is obviously different with only me to consider. This is a time to be selfish, do what I want and if that is stay in, snuggle under a blanket and read a book or 2 or 3 or 4 so be it!

Life is full of ups and downs and there have been several valleys for me, particularly in the last three years. This will pass, I’ve been through much worse.

But I do pray for those who are really struggling and are fearful of what happens next. Hopefully thinking through my own muddled thoughts will help me develop more empathy and compassion.

Whether you are an introvert, extrovert or somewhere in between I think we are all going to need plenty of kindness in the coming months.