The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. But if you’re an introvert–especially one with a highly sensitive nervous system–then they can be the most overwhelming time of the year.
For years I felt guilty for not being as enthusiastic about the season as others around me seemed to be. Yes, I loved being grateful and celebrating the birth of Jesus. But the endless socializing, loud music and crowded shopping centers? Not so much.
I’m hoping I’m not the only one who has ever felt this way. If so, I’m going to feel like the biggest grinch ever. But I’ve got a hunch there are a lot of us out there who would prefer a silent night to decking the halls. And I’ve finally decided to stop fighting who I am and instead see it as a gift I can offer others.
If you’re a fellow introvert, I hope this list will encourage you. And if you’re an extrovert, I hope you’ll take full advantage of what the introverts in your world can add to your holiday season this year…
* Introverts connect us to the deeper meaning of what we’re celebrating. Introverts are contemplative by nature. They can lead us back to what really matters and readjust our perspective when it’s easy to be distracted. They may skip the small talk but they love to talk through questions like, “What are you most grateful for this year?” or “What are you dreaming about for the new year?”
* Introverts provide much-needed silent nights. The holidays can seem like a social marathon. Between parties, family visits and catching up with friends it can be exhausting even for the most extroverted among us. When I ask people how they are this time of year I often get one of two replies, “busy” or “tired.” Introverts can help you catch your breath. They can sit with you and watch the snow fall. They can curl up beside you on the couch with a good book. They can help you start the new year refreshed instead of exhausted.
* Introverts give us a buffer from too much materialism. Because of the way their brains are wired, introverts are less susceptible to external rewards–the latest and greatest gadget, the must-have sale item, the shiny temptations that are everywhere this time of year. Spending time with introverts can help keep you grounded, grateful and living simply.
* Introverts bring a peaceful presence into our homes. If you have family or friends visiting, it can feel like a lot of pressure to entertain, entertain, entertain. But introverts don’t need {or even want} that kind of hectic pace. Give them permission to read, nap, spend a cozy evening watching old movies or whatever low key activity appeals to them. And feel free to join in too.
* Introverts love on us in quiet ways we need more now than any other time of the year. Holidays can be a time of constant giving in every possible way. Introverts want to sit across the table from you and ask, “How are you, really?” They can be a safe place and sounding board when family drama happens. They can help you think back over the past year and do some dreaming for the new one. And you’ll both feel better when you’re done.
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If you’re an extrovert, you may relate to some of what I shared above too. That’s because none of us are 100% introvert or extrovert. We’re all a glorious mix of both.
Let’s all do what we can to bring joy to the world…and especially to each other.
Cheering You On,
Holley Gerth
Your Introvert Coach
Looking for holiday gifts for the introverts in your life? The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why the World Needs You to Be You is on sale now.
