In February 2017, I was the inaugural speaker for the Uncorked Conversations Series with Whine & Cheese . We discussed all things self care. After the conversation was over, I was asked a question by a participant:

I describe myself as an extroverted introvert. How do I balance my desire to be alone/practice self care without slipping into a long stretch of withdrawal?

As an introvert, I love my solitude but I’ve also noticed that I’m ok with a dose of extroversion added in my self care.
One way to balance your introversion with your extroversion is to identify self care activities that 1) meet the needs of one of those sides and 2) could meet the needs of both.

Here’s what you need

  • Something to write on
  • A pen or marker (or two different colors to add more color to your plan)

Create your diagram 

Think of a Venn diagram, where two circles overlap in the middle. Like this:

Draw out your circles and label the left side as INTROVERT and the right as EXTROVERT. In each circle, list self care activities and/or people you can count on that speak to either side. What would an introverted self care activity look like for you? Or an extroverted activity?

List the overlap section as BOTH. In this section, list activities that you could do by yourself but can be shared with another person. This helps you create a self care plan that is well-rounded.

Here’s how I would create my plan:

Journal writing and meditation would be an introverted self care activities for me. An extroverted self care activity for me would be a monthly potluck with close friends or going with connecting with others at an interfaith service. Going on a hike is something I could do alone, but it would be fun to do it with a friend, as I’d want to share in that experience with a friend or family member.

Create a self care plan that honors your solitude while also exploring ways to connect with others. Try this out and let me know how it goes.

RAISE YOUR VOICE: What are your self care activities that you enjoy alone or with others? Share below in the comments section.

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