It’s Ok To Be An Introvert – Jennifer Oaten
With current restrictions and COVID-19 cases on the increase, I feel no guilt about wanting to stay at home on Friday night and sit on the couch rather than attending a social gathering.
I consider myself to be an introvert who enjoys time alone. I need time alone to recharge. This doesn’t mean I dislike socialising; it does mean downtime is important. My role is people-focussed, so I often crave the time and space to sit and be alone as solitude can be therapeutic for me.
The vast majority of us are not introverts or extroverts; we are ambiverts which means, in relation to our personality traits, we generally fall somewhere in the middle of being an introvert or an extrovert. Our personality influences how we approach the world and how we respond to different social stimulation.
As an introvert, I want to share 6 points I believe that all parents need to understand about introverts:
- Introverts can struggle to find a true sense of identity and belonging, particularly during the adolescent years when friendships and connections are important and play a major part in forming a sense of identity.
- For some introverts, participating in group activities or reading in front of classmates feels like torture, and they can become quite flustered and anxious.
- Introverts observe first and act later, which does not mean they are hesitant, cautious or afraid; they just like to ‘look before they leap’. They tend to come alive at home – talking, joking and being silly. This is where they feel most comfortable.
- They don’t need a large group of friends; they are happy to have a small number of close friends. Introverts seek depth in relationships rather than breadth.
- Introverts need time to recharge and reflect following time socialising, for example, after a busy day at school or a birthday party.
- Just because introverts are quiet doesn’t mean they lack vibrancy are cold-hearted or standoffish. An introvert is colourful on the inside, but they do not need to verbalise every thought and emotion.
If your child is an introvert, honour their quiet temperament. Help them understand why they might feel tired and cranky after socialising and teach them that it is okay to want to spend time alone. Most importantly, make sure they understand that there is nothing wrong with them because they are an introvert.
If you have a child who is an introvert, you might like to read this article HEREÂ on 15 things you should never do to your introverted child.
- Featured
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
From the President – September 2024
Welcome to the September edition of the Old Girls’ Association Blog. This month, we celebrate the inaugural Mercy Awards, recognising the incredible contributions from Fatima Horta and Roslind Witham our worthy award winners. Their dedication to the College community and advocacy work highlights the true essence of mercy values.
Sisterhood Networking Series – An Evening with Sandra Boyle
We hosted an inspiring Sisterhood Networking Session with Sandra Boyle, a pioneer in mediation and negotiation. Sandra shared her incredible journey from one of few women in a law cohort to becoming a leading figure in Australian law. The evening was filled with invaluable insights, camaraderie, and inspiration.
Save the Date – Golden Girls Luncheon
The annual Golden Girls’ Luncheon is set for 7 November 2024 at Santa Maria College! A special event for alumnae who graduated in 1974 or earlier, it’s a day to reconnect, laugh, and relive cherished memories. Official invitations will arrive soon, so mark your calendars and get ready for a day of joy and nostalgia.
A Blend of Science, Art & Culture
Stacks and Standouts on the Wake
