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Clothing that cant be described as Snuggie-adjacent.
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For a long time, I saw my introversion as a weakness.
Not the case, according to California-based therapistTracy Thomas, Ph.D.
It doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you.
It means there’s something very right with you, and your system works, she tells SELF.
Processing people and experiences is hard on the nervous systemeven when its fun.
If youre introverted by nature, it takes a lot moreenergythan if youre extroverted, she explains.
This isnt to say that extroverts are immune to social burnout.
Sometimes, it was actually my extroverted friends who were dreading theholidayseason and bemoaning how busy they were.
Could it be that my introversion wasnt a weakness, but a superpower?
So, how do you do it?
We are not designed that way, says Thomas.
Everything requires energy and intention.
Every choice is also a renunciation.
When we say yes to one thing, we must say no to something else, says Crook.
If youre only saying no to yourself,burnoutis inevitableso be choosy when it comes to RSVPing.
Get used to saying things like Ive got other plans, says Thomas.
For me, sometimes Ive got other plans means my ass is sitting on the couch.
Those are my plans.
Theres always pressure to be up for everything.
But its important to listen to your intuition, Thomas says.
You will not gain more from quantity, she explains.
You will gain from what is right for you.
Some days, whats right for you will be putting on your finest outfit and dancing until dawn.
Trust yourself and be clear about what you need, Thomas advisesand then stick to it.
Im heading out, not Ugh, sorry, I have to go home because Im 100 years old.
Its not asking for permission, its not stating something and hoping for approval.
And when youre clear, [other people] dont have ambivalence about it either.
The key is to find something you love that feels like it’s all about you.
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