Honoring Your Energy – Being of Service as an Introvert

Hi. Fellow introvert here... For a long time, I thought I was shy. I assumed that being quiet or reserved automatically made me shy, but as I learned more about my personality, I realized that shyness and introversion are not the same thing.

Understanding the Difference

Shyness is typically rooted in a fear of negative evaluation or social judgment. It’s often linked to discomfort or anxiety in social situations, where a person might want to connect but feels hesitant or self-conscious.

Introversion, on the other hand, is a personality trait. It’s about where you draw your energy from. Introverts tend to recharge in solitude, thrive in quieter environments, and often prefer deeper, one-on-one conversations over large group settings. It’s not about fear, but about preference.

For me, this was a liberating realization. It means I don’t have to force myself into environments that drain me just to fit in. I can honor my natural rhythms and still be of service – just in my own way.

Protecting Your Energy

Over time, I’ve learned that honoring my needs is not just a form of self-care, but a form of self-respect. It’s the only way I can stay true to myself and still be present for others. Here are a few boundaries I’ve embraced unapologetically:

• Saying No Without Guilt: I don’t force myself into situations that drain me.

• Resisting the Urge to Over-Explain: I don’t have to justify my boundaries to others.

• Setting Digital Boundaries: My phone goes on Do Not Disturb at a certain time each night.

• Protecting My Peace: I gently but firmly tell family members not to include me in unnecessary drama.

When I didn’t know that it was okay for me to be an introvert, I suffered. I felt obligated to attend every family function, engage in draining conversations, and tolerate situations that left me feeling depleted. I didn’t know how to put my needs first, and it took a toll on my mental and emotional health.

Permission to Be You

If you’re an introvert or a highly sensitive being, give yourself permission to honor your energy. Know that you can be of service, create meaningful impact, and connect deeply with others without sacrificing your peace.

Reflect and Journal

• What do you truly want in this season of your life?

• Do you enjoy your own company, or do you find yourself longing for more connection?

• How can you create space for your unique needs without feeling guilty?

• What boundaries do you need to put in place to protect your peace?

Take a deep breath. You don’t have to choose between being true to yourself and being of service to others. You can do both, in your own way, at your own pace.

With love,Anusa ✨