Tips for Introverts During Isolation - Grit & Grace

Yes, I’m an introvert.  No, I’m not anti-social. Now don’t get me wrong:  there are certain aspects of this whole social distancing season that I am enjoying.  It’s been awesome having fewer social commitments on a daily/weekly basis.  I enjoy being home, and even being alone for extended periods of time.  Connection with others is really important to me, with a preference for quality over quantity. That’s one of the biggest reasons why introverts during isolation have such a hard time.

I’m zoomed out.  Give me real people.

I don’t know who first said this, but I couldn’t agree more. Without a doubt, Zoom and WhatsApp calls are getting a little old.  Of course it should be noted, I’m grateful for these apps and what they provide. It’s just so hard for me to feel real connection with others through them.  Unfortunately, lacking what is viewed as real and authentic connection can make things extra difficult for introverts during isolation.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned I’m learning as a recovering perfectionist is that it’s okay to struggle. Having difficulties is part of being a human on this side of eternity. Writing helps me try to make sense of what I’m struggling with.

Writers gotta write.

Here’s my attempt to add to what is good and lovely and helpful out there right now. Here are a few things I’ve found helpful to do when isolation starts to weigh down my heart, mind, and soul. Now I warn you: don’t expect to find anything revolutionary on my list. Whether you identify as an introvert or not, my hope is that this little list will provide some helpful reminders that will encourage you during this time of quarantining and social distancing.

• First and foremost, take time to stop, breathe, and pray.  Hopefully, that will trigger truth.  The truth that God’s got this, and even though I’m in isolation he’s in it with me.  Obviously, when I have forgotten or don’t have the presence of mind to do this for myself, I need to reach out to someone who will help remind me. *see final tip. 
• Take time to get outdoors daily. It’s amazing what even 15 minutes outdoors will do to lift the shadows that isolation can bring, not to mention the health benefits. Even if I’m not walking with anyone else, spending time outside reminds me that I am not alone. There’s a big beautiful world out there. A world full of sights and sounds that is right there with me once I head out the door. Being outdoors also helps bring clarity to my thoughts, lifts my spirits, and even gives my creative juices a boost.
• Finally, take time for connections that matter. Yes, even for introverts who may be fine without as many interactions with people. Now more than ever, connections are especially important. Write a letter, send a text, make a phone call, ask a question, see if anyone needs your help. Backyards and front patios are perfect social distancing connection spots. As an introvert, I often rely on spontaneous connections that just naturally take place during the course of daily life. During this season of quarantine and isolation, I’ve chosen to be more purposeful with my connections. They won’t just happen. Take the time to make time for connections that matter.

I hope these tips are helpful to you. Are you an introvert? Do you enjoy isolation? What are some ways you’ve found to help make connections? Remember: even though we’re doing this thing separately, each of us in our own spaces – we’re in this together!

Becky is a Miami native, and has lived here all of her life. Married to her husband for over 20 years, they lead a very active lifestyle along with their three teenagers and Riley, their rescue dog. Becky loves to teach, and has had the awesome privilege of home educating her children for over twelve years. When not teaching academics, Becky loves to equip, encourage, and empower women through the teaching of her group fitness classes. Becky and her husband lead various ministries, and their family loves to serve the community through the countless opportunities provided over the past twenty years+ in their local church. She enjoys filling her "free" time with reading, writing, watching movies, and just spending time with the family. Becky has a passion for living her life with grit and grace, and encouraging others to do the same.