If someone spends less time talking and more time just listening and being, does that make them anti-social or some kind of a social moron? Take right this moment for example: my partner and I are sitting 5 feet apart from one another and haven't said a word to each other for the last 20 minutes. Could be the crazy last couple of days around our house with family visiting (GREAT VISIT by the way) or the fact that we are both tired beyond belief (don't ask about the pugs...they are O-U-T!). But, we often have evenings like this. I always laugh, too, when we are on a roadtrip and can drive for hours without saying one word to each other. I guess we just enjoy each other's company enough to realize idle chatter isn't necessary.
I was also surprised by the reaction I have received now that my office is completely separated from the rest of the staff...by my choice. I have been questioned about being lonely, exclusive, anti-social, and crazy. Me? I believe I have found Nirvana in my little corner of the world and absolutely love the solitude I have during 75% of my day. Is that strange? I guess I've always considered myself a "thinker" and someone who needs some quiet time to recharge my batteries. Never have understood those that need constant activity or noise around them. Reading with earphones on? Impossible. Sleeping with the TV on? Could never do it. Talking while I exercise? Not unless I'm calling for the paramedics.
In this world of overstimulation, I wonder if I'm alone in feeling this way about interaction? I have always considered myself an extrovert, but I guess I have a strong introverted side of me creeping out more and more the older I get.....and I love it.
If you know me this comes as no surprise...action, smell the roses and move on!!
ReplyDeleteBut with my recent departure from the "run and gun" action that my past career provided I have had time to reflect and ponder. I believe there is something to be said about listening, observing and silence.
And for those folks at your office who think otherwise maybe they aren't comfrontable in their own skin...maybe they are a little scared of the voices in their head when the environment around them isn't distracting and dictating their every move!!!
Don- you describe what being an introvert is. Society tends to not value introverted qualities but introverts have much depth and wisdom to offer the world. But it requires us to spend time alone, and time to reflect to feel re-charged, just as you described, so that when we do come back to being "social", we can do it with integrity. I am also an introvert.
ReplyDelete