Why Introverts Need To Practice Self-Care and How To Do It
Guest Blog Author- Harry Cline from NewCareGiver.org
If you are an introvert or love someone who is, then you already know that introverts get their energy from solitude. When someone is an introvert, they need time alone to recharge after socialising or after being in any group setting where they have to be on.
It isn’t as though introverted people don’t like being around other people or enjoy their company — nearly all do; it’s just that those situations can be mentally and physically exhausting for them. This is why introverts, even more than others, need to learn how to practise self-care.
Self-care allows introverts to regain balance and their feeling of being in control. Today, we share some tips especially for introverts who need a reminder on just what a difference a little self-care can make.
Practising Mindfulness
“Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally,” according to author Jon Kabat-Zinn. You can practise mindfulness anywhere and at any time. It’s easier, however, if you can isolate yourself from distractions, at least when you first begin learning how to immerse yourself in mindfulness.
Many people find they are most aware of their own thoughts and sensations when they meditate. Meditation is another practice that brings inner calm and peace. Even more so than mindfulness, real meditation takes some practice before you get the full benefit of it. But even as you learn, you’re benefiting. Try a mediation app to help guide you. You can find a lot of free meditation apps to download to your phone, so you can take your guided meditation with you anywhere.
Spending Time With Your Pet
For an introvert, time spent with a pet means you have companionship but without the need for social interaction. In addition, pets provide a sense of security, which is important when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. Pets are non-judgemental; they don’t mind if you say or do anything awkward, so you don’t have to feel self-conscious around them, which is a big source of stress for introverted people when they socialise. Pets have been shown to boost oxytocin and serotonin levels in our bloodstream, which promote a feeling of happiness and contentment.
If you find yourself anxious around your pet because you sense they are feeling distressed themselves, you may wish to find help understanding what might be going on to make them feel anxious. This can be invaluable when you want to spend more time enjoying them and less time worrying, feeling anxious, or frustrated about them.
Exercise
For introverts, fatigue is a problem because socialising can feel exhausting. Regular exercise not only energises us but relieves stress and anxiety and releases the body’s feel-good hormones, endorphins. Exercise also helps with focus and concentration, which can be a problem when we’re feeling overwhelmed.
Exercise doesn’t have to mean taking time off to go to the gym, either. It can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Going for a walk around the block on your lunch break or after work in a nearby park. Parking farther back in the parking lot or even getting off your bus or subway a few stops earlier. And make sure you bring water along with you since that extra walking can become dehydrating, and water is a great mood booster.
Career Change
As an introvert, the wrong job can make you feel uncomfortable not only on the job but for the rest of your life, as well. Having to be in a fast-paced environment with a lot of people can leave you drained long after you’ve left the office.
Consider a job that offers remote work instead. More and more companies are using remote workers in order to tap into a larger pool of talent. Update your resume with your latest skills and experience, highlighting your ability to work independently. In order to make your resume really stand out, use an online resume template. Many have a large library of styles, fonts, and colours to choose from, in addition to being able to upload your own design elements.
If the position you’re looking for requires a degree you don’t have, look at getting your degree online. Whether you’re looking for a position in computer science, marketing, or even nursing, you’ll find an online degree program. Getting your degree online means being able to study at home, which is great for introverts since they’re able to learn best that way. And online programs are flexible, so you can study at your own pace. Just make sure the school is accredited and that it offers competitive tuition rates.
Whether it’s something as simple as meditation, taking a walk, or spending time with your pet, to big changes like a new job or earning a degree, if you’re an introvert, taking time for self-care is not only important, it’s essential.
Guest Blog Author- Harry Cline from NewCareGiver.org
Harry Cline is creator of NewCaregiver.org and author of the upcoming book, The A-Z Home Care Handbook: Health Management How-Tos for Senior Caregivers. As a retired nursing home administrator, father of three, and caregiver to his ninety-year-old uncle, Harry knows how challenging and rewarding caregiving can be. He also understands that caregiving is often overwhelming for those just starting out. He created his website and is writing his new book to offer new caregivers everywhere help and support.