(Pulls out soapbox, turns on bullhorn, and muffles it) Citizens, there is a lot of talk going on about how to deal with introverts. I used to think I was one. I am not. to my extroverted friends, introversion is a real thing. To my introverted friends - it is not cut and dry as a pamphlet comic. Every human has a bubble of interaction. The size of it changes based on situations, and primarily the person with whom you are interacting. Im generally comfortable with physical space but there are people who are not allowed within certain distances. That is not unique to introverts. In an ideal world, all humans should have been raised to respect the boundaries of others, and to pay attention to those signals that tell you when you are approaching or crossing a line. If everyone paid attention to these, one would know just what were the boundaries for every person they encountered, from the most approachable person to someone with the largest boundary bubble. But not everyone knows this. So, friends - introverted, extroverted, in-betwixt or otherwise - empower yourself. Your boundary is always under your protection. Yes, you have the right to have your boundary respected - and that means wherever your boundary lies that moment (because yes, it may change moment to moment).No one is entitled to just bust through it. You have the right to have it respected, and moreover, you have the right to make sure that it is respected. Dont hesitate to speak up when someone is crossing a line. And even if you state it in a clear, non-confrontational or accusatory but firm way, and they still take it personally, you still have the right to protect your boundary. If they take it personally, well, thats a choice. Realize that a person may not be aware that they have crossed a boundary with you. Do not assume that everyone knows your boundary in any given moment. If they cross it, and you dont use your words, and despite your signals, they are still crossing your boundary, you may have to say something. If not, they may continue to be oblivious and cross it. So speak up for yourself. And for those of you who feel that you are going to Tear down that wall by busting through it - dont. You are in fact doing the opposite of what you intend. That is not okay, and you would hate it if someone broke through your bubble. And believe me, you have one. Even if it is tiny, you would be pissed. So pay attention. Respect the boundaries today. Then reward yourself with a sweet slice. Everybody got it? We good? Now stop clogging my feed about this. (Turns off bullhorn, steps off soapbox, picks it up, tries to put on earmuffs while holding all this crap, drops everything, scowls. Puts on earmuffs, tightens scarf. Picks up bullhorn, soapbox. Stomps away. Needs a few minutes in this bubble.)
Posted on: Wed, 13 Nov 2013 16:32:45 +0000
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