Extroverts want us to have fun, because they assume we want what they want. And sometimes we do. But “fun” itself is a “bright” word, the kind of word that comes with flashing lights and an exclamation point! One of Merriam-Webster’s definitions of “fun” is “violent or excited activity or argument.” The very word makes me want to sit in a dimly lit room with lots of pillows—by myself.   Laurie Helgoe, Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength HAHAHAHAHA!  This is so true of me.  My idea of fun is browsing a book store for as many hours as I want by myself ( usually ).  Or I think it is fun to be with one other person in a quiet coffee shop.  I have been frustrated when extroverts try to convince me that my "fun" isn't fun at all.  It is for me just like theirs is for them.  I don't begrudge them their ideas of "fun" so I wish they would respect my version of it, and some do.  It's the ones who can't fathom that there are p...

Though I may be efficient at the family table, I linger at the table for two.   Laurie Helgoe, Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength There's a problem I have.  And today's quote helps me sum up my problem.  I am what you would call out outgoing introvert.  It means I can do extroverted things or behave in extroverted ways BUT for shorter lengths of time and I am exhausted afterwards.  My job outside my home happens to be a front desk receptionist.  Um.  Hello extrovert behavior anyone?  I have to interact, I can't crawl into my cave that I love and have decorated.  Here's where my problem occurs.  A lot of people only see me in the role of front desk  receptionist   i.e. being an "extrovert".  What they don't see is before and after.  Before work I don't do a lot of talking or engaging - I'm pretty careful with my time before work each day.  After work?  Same thing.  I try t...