Single Life This Happy Single Asks 12:00 AM Never compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Sometimes, this happy single asks: What's out there? Who's out there for me? Is this all there is for me? Sometimes, this happy single asks one too many times it seems: When's my time? Is it tomorrow? Is it next week? How much longer do I have to wait? Some nights are colder. Longer. More cruel. People could be ruthless; laughing at her life choices, making her feel she's not good enough. So sometimes, this happy single asks: when is it going to stop? But there are days---many, many days when her faith prevails and her hope is renewed. So this happy single asks with excitement: What's he like? Have I already met him? (God forbid!) What would that day be like? Is it going to be just another ordinary day and destiny will sneak up on me? Or will I be swept off my feet like in the books or movies? Yes, sometimes her imagination runs wild. But, that's the beauty of being single. You have a blank canvas. You can paint your future the way you want to. She's honestly, genuinely happy for her peers getting hitched or starting a family of their own. She celebrates their milestones with joy. Yet, sometimes this happy single still asks: How about me? Is this all what life has in store? Maybe it's normal to be curious, to be anxious of the unknown and the uncertain. And maybe it's okay to get tired of waiting sometimes. Maybe one day she'll find the answers to all her questions. Maybe just for some. Maybe still, she may never find out. That's alright, she thinks. For to each his own. You can't compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Tweet Now, that's what she knows for certain. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Dating 6 Apps For A Stronger Relationship 8:00 AM Don't let technology tear you apart. Use it to keep you together and strengthen your bond. Even the most committed, loving relationships hit rough patches and get stuck in ruts. Break yourself out of bad patterns by using technology to reconnect with your partner and spice up your love life. These six apps will help you plan better dates, communicate with each other, celebrate the best moments of your relationship, and resolve conflict. Use them as a way to coordinate your schedules, keep communication happening during busy times, or to discover a deeper connection with each other. 6 Apps For A Stronger Relationship BetterHalf Image via Applits.com Win at date night with the BetterHalf app. You both download the iOS app, then use it to find dining and movie options you'll both enjoy that fit within both of your schedules. Craft a date night you'll both love by choosing dinner and a movie, then invite your partner on the fabulous date. The app also lets you search movie locations and restaurants that are near specific locations, like your significant other's office or your home. Fix a Fight Image via Apple.com Let technology help you get over the stress of fighting by using the Fix a Fight app. Available for $4.99 in the Apple store, this app uses relationship research to help couples overcome their differences without harboring long-term feelings of resentment and anger. By defining how you feel and working together to repair the fight, you and your partner will build a stronger relationship with a little help from the Fix a Fight app. Couple Image via Apple.com This private app is a fantastic way to stay in touch with your significant other. Couple, available for free download on Android and iOS, provides you with a way to stay connected to your sweetheart whether you're living two streets or two countries away from one another. You can share private content; pictures and messages look beautiful displayed on a smartphone, like the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge from a carrier such as T-Mobile, and with its fast network, everything downloads with ease. Couple also suggests date night locations and helps you meet up in real time by sharing your locations with each other. Couplete – App for Couples Image via Google.com This app has some overlapping features with Couple, but the major bonus of the Couplete app is its timeline feature. You and your partner create a timeline of your relationship together, including milestones, photos, and happy memories. You can share pieces of your timeline on social media if you want to share the joy or let your family and friends know that you're passing an important anniversary. Couplete also features a Wishbox, where you both add things you want to do together. Download it for free on Android and iOS. Open Ended Questions Image via Apple.com The Open Ended Questions app will bring your relationship to the next level by encouraging you and your love to talk about the important things in life. When you're bogged down in the day-to-day aspects of a life together, sometimes you forget to keep asking the bigger questions that make your relationship closer. The Open Ended Questions app, which is $1.99 on iOS and Android, asks you 50 questions about life, your needs, your dreams, and your relationship which are designed to get you and your partner talking about the present and the future in a heartfelt way. Expressing Needs Image via Apple.com Telling your partner what would make you happy isn't always easy. Some partners assume their needs are obvious, and others simply have trouble communicating what would make them happier. The Expressing Needs app, available for $1.99 on iOS and Android, first asks you a series of questions so you can define what you need out of your relationship. Then it helps you phrase those needs in a positive way, so that your partner will be receptive. If you both engage with the app, you and your partner will know how to make each other even happier. Don't wait until you've hit a rocky patch in your relationship to download these apps. Get in the habit of planning date nights, sending cute messages, and talking about important things now. No matter what state your relationship is in, focus on strengthening it both for now and for the long run. Author: Ryan Tyson Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Health & Wellness 3 Ways You Can Support Your Partner's Mental Wellness 12:34 PM In a healthy, happy relationship, supporting your significant other through the ups and downs is always essential. This includes uplifting your partner when they are going through hard times and struggling to take care of their mental wellness. Grappling with mental health is one of the most challenging battles. It can significantly impact your quality of life, abilities, relationships, and more. When someone struggles with mental health, it can leave them feeling mixed emotions. For example, they may feel isolated or hopeless. That is why being there for your other half dealing with mental health issues is crucial. If you're unsure how to support your partner's mental wellness, keep reading for helpful tips! 1. Be a listening ear.If you want to understand your partner is going through, listen to them. Listen to their feelings, experiences, thoughts, and opinions. Being a good listener can be difficult if you listen to respond, not to understand. When you listen to understand, you will better know your partner's feelings and how you can help them. Sometimes it's tempting to want to give them advice and try to help them. However, that's not always what that person wants. Your partner might want to be heard, get the burden off their chest, and have their feelings validated. Reassure them that you create a safe space for them to share everything. Try to listen and only offer advice if your partner asks for it. Reaffirm to your partner that they are strong and you are here to help them overcome this.Remember, it may be hard for your partner to open up. They may fear being judged or dismissed. This is why you need to create an environment where they feel comfortable coming to you for help with their mental wellness. 2. Assist them in seeking help.Does your partner have a strong support system? Friends and family? How about a mental health professional to lean on? Mental health can be serious. Unfortunately, dealing with anxiety and depression is difficult, and it's not always fixed by venting to your partner. Encourage your partner to seek professional help for their mental health.A mental health professional will listen through every session and provide coping strategies. They can also prescribe depression medications if necessary. Seeking help from a mental health counselor will help decide the best treatment options. They will assist you in getting the help you need, so you start feeling like yourself again. Whether it's stress, burnout, anxiety, or depression, a mental health professional will benefit anyone struggling with their mental health issues.If your partner seems nervous or hesitant about seeking help, accompany them on their first counseling session. It will be helpful for them to feel more relaxed, and you can help them communicate what they are feeling. Once they feel more comfortable going alone, you can ask how best to support them. Their counselor might suggest that you join another session to gather different ways you can be supportive or help with their coping strategies. Research your partner's mental health issues, and discuss any concerns you might have.Seek help for mental wellness. 3. Encourage self-care.Remind your partner to indulge in activities that bring them joy. They need to practice self-care by doing the activities they love. Using Perfect Plant delta 9 edibles can be a part of this self-care routine, offering a moment of relaxation and enjoyment. This can help assist with anxiety and stressful emotions, allowing a peaceful way to have some downtime. Try out things as a couple to do together as well. Bonding as a couple is a great way to work on your relationship. Not only should you encourage your partner to practice self-care, but you should also stick to your self-care routine. Unfortunately, when caring for your partner, your self-care routine can slip away and be easily pushed to the back of your mind. However, it is vital to continue your routine, as self-care is more important now than ever. With added responsibilities, it can be taxing on your mind and body.Schedule some time for self-care to forget about all that is stressing you out and focus on something you enjoy.Support your partner's mental wellness with these tips today.Don't forget to listen to understand and create a positive, open, and safe atmosphere for your partner to discuss their struggles. Mental health shouldn't be taboo. Encourage your partner to get support for their mental wellness today.Hero image
Faith Trade Off 12:05 AM Trade Off I'm still listening to husband and wife Arun and Lallaine Gogna's Quaretreat every night. This helps me a lot with my mental health. The c oronavirus may only have infected a certain number of people but psychologically and mentally, we are all affected. On this day 8 of my l ockdown diary, they talked about trade off. Is there something you thought was important that during this q uarantine you realize you can trade off for essentials like food, sanitizer and masks? What are they? Best trade God always asks us to trade. In my life, He's asked me many times to let go of what I've been holding on to dearly: my work, old friends, failing relationships, my plans. It's hard. It takes a while. I could really be stubborn. Good thing is that God doesn't give up on us. He is patient and gentle. But He doesn't stop until He brings us safely to where He wants us to be. Until we are cut off from the people who bring us harm. Until we are protected from which we thought was good for us. Today, I remember yet again how blessed I am to have an amazing God. He has my best interest in mind. God's plans are better than what I have for myself. Pinterest This life in the time of c oronavirus may feel like a struggle for me many times but He has something special in store for me, that I'm sure. There is a purpose behind this predicament. There is a blessing behind this burden. There is a beautiful story waiting to unravel, a wonderful lesson that needs to be learned. I am trading off my comfortable life and temporary freewill to surrender to His will. I may not see it yet, but I know the ending will be amazing. For me and for all of us. We just need to trust in Him. After all, He traded His majesty to be with us and be one of us. All because He wants to save us. That is hands down the biggest trade off ever. Your turn What are you willing to trade off or let go? How has this crisis been affecting your mental health? P.S. Yesterday I shared about my fondness for gardening. So today I searched more videos about gardening. It's addicting. And my husband picked a branch of beautiful pink flowers for me on his way home from the groceries. It's a good day. 😊
Dating 15 Signs You're Comfortable Being Single 2:14 AM It's good for a person to spend time alone. It gives them an opportunity to discover who they are and to figure out why they are always alone. -Amy Sedaris This post was originally written for and posted on Thought Catalog. 15 Signs You're Comfortable Being Single 1. You’re okay staying in on a beautiful weekend. You don't call random people to hang out on a sunny Saturday. You'd raYou’dcatch up on your reading or watch your favorite re-runs. 2. You are sincerely happy about your friends' milestones, engagements, weddings, and new babies. 3. You don't get uncomfortable when you go out with other couples. 4. You can dine out, watch a movie or travel alone. 5. When someone asks about your relationship status, you answer honestly without batting an eye because you don't think it's embarrassing or lame to be alone in a couple-filled world. 6. Your calendar is always full: vacations, breakfast/lunch/dinner with old friends, movie dates with your siblings or friends, seminars, and other essential activities outside work/school.7. When people think something's wrong with you because you’re single, you conclude that there’s wrong with them. 8. You don't know how it is to be dating or in a relationship anymore, and it doesn't bother you one bit.How many times do you need to send them messages? Which decisions do you need to consult with them about? (And why?). 9. You ignore the sweet nothings you receive in your inbox or phone because you don’t have time for someone you know is not severe or is not showing potential for a partner. 10. You are genuinely happy with where you are right now, even when things aren't going your way.11. Your plans may involve settling down, but you're not pressured to do it any time soon. 12. You hate asking someone's permission to buy something or go somewhere. So you come, and you go as you please. 13. You enjoy your own company, so you don’t feel like missing out on something. 14. Your heart goes out to those who are afraid to be alone and wish they’ll see the light and embrace singleness rather than be in an unhappy relationship only because they want to feel secure. 15. You’re not bitter about your failed relationships anymore. You are actually grateful that it ended. If it didn’t, you wouldn't be this happy right now.How comfortable - and happy - are you with your status?Hero image
Listicle 17 Things I Love About My Husband 2:00 PM I want to honor my better half as we celebrate our wedding anniversary. Allow me to share 17 things I love about my husband. 17 reasons why I'm thankful to have him as my life partner.17 Things I Love About My Husband1. He is patient.Marriage is a big adjustment, from deciding on everything by myself to sharing my life with someone.Our cultural differences also make it difficult for us to understand each other.Despite our contrasting personalities and shortcomings, my husband is patient with me. I love that about him.2. He's responsible. My husband sees I don't have to worry about things around the house. He ensures we are comfortable, from fixing leaks to running errands. He takes care of and provides for our needs. I love that he has the initiative to take out the trash without being asked. He doesn't put off until later what needs to be done at the moment.3. He makes me laugh. I love it when he does silly things to give me a little break from working. He shares amusing stories to help keep my stress level down.4. He's smart. He thinks like an engineer; he's math-savvy, inquisitive, methodical, and systematic. My husband is perceptive, thorough, logical, and analytical.He's an eloquent speaker, and I couldn't be prouder.5. He's loyal. When my husband finds a good restaurant, we return to that place, order the same food, and even sit at the same table whenever possible. He asks for the same hairstylist, masseuse, and driver whenever he needs their service.Most of all, he is loyal to me. 6. He makes me feel at peace.Because I know that no matter what happens, he will take care of me, fight for our relationship, and never hurt me intentionally.I know how it is to be in a relationship without your partner's loyalty. Or when there's always a conflict to work on.You're always on edge. I appreciate not having to worry about these things anymore.7. He is thoughtful.My husband always thinks about me and my needs, no matter how busy he gets. He knows my language of love gifts, so he sees that I receive a gift, even if it's just a flower he's picked on his way home.8. He puts Christ first.When I was single, someone said, "Find a man who puts God first and your second. He will not look for a third."I don't mind being my husband's second priority as long as God is his first. As it is, marriage is a covenant between you, God, and your partner. 9. He wants me to take care of myself.My husband always reminds me to pamper myself. He's also willing and eager to wait while I get my hair and nails done.I love that he doesn't just follow me when I shop. Instead, I can ask for his opinion, and he'll give me honest feedback and suitable suggestions.10. He's humble. Our marriage is not perfect, but he's willing to change his ways to improve.Being the leader in our relationship, he's humble enough to apologize first - even when sometimes I'm at fault. 😛11. He's romantic.My husband is my most loving, caring, and romantic partner. He can make me feel special and loved even in ordinary times. He makes me feel like I'm the most beautiful woman in the world, even when I don't think at my best.12. He's selfless.He puts my needs and comfort first before his. Yet, I am included in all his dreams and plans.13. He's clean.My husband takes hygiene seriously. He smells fresh and is always clean. We don't have a messy house; he cleans the kitchen even before eating (unlike me, I wait until we're done before I wash the dishes), and most of all, we always sleep with clean sheets. I can't imagine living with a sloppy person. I'm glad my husband isn't one.15. He has no vices.My husband doesn't smoke and has not had alcohol for a decade. He doesn't gamble, and he has no bad habits.He loves watching movies so much that I could say that's his only "vice," but I get to binge-watch with him sometimes, so all good. 16. He's the best travel companion ever.I love finding the best travel planner and partner I could ever ask for. From making sure we get the best deal without compromising comfort and safety, planning our itinerary, and packing our travel needs, he's on top of things.On the day of the trip, from waking me up (forcing me out of bed, really lol), preparing our breakfast and bags, securing our house, carrying my luggage, and ensuring that we enjoy the trip, I can rely on him.Can't wait to travel with him again.17. He's an excellent life companion. There are days when I need my space, and he respects that. We can sit in silence comfortably or talk endlessly ---mainly depending on my mood. 😁Why I love my husbandMy husband and I couldn't be more different. I can multitask, but he needs to focus on one thing. As all men do, I think.I'm 99% introverted (according to the personality test we took), and he's a full-blown extrovert.Yet I know we can turn our differences into delight.I prayed for a good partner, and God gave me more than I asked for. My husband is another reason I love my life and consider myself blessed.I love my husband because he could be my best friend, most trusted confidant, most supportive cheerleader, and worst critic. I love many things about my husband and am excited to discover more in the coming years.Happy anniversary, Honey! 😘
Love and Relationship Advice On Modern Dating From Someone Who Found Love Online 3:11 PM Modern dating. It's so different from what dating used to be. Is it possible to find love online? How to make it work for you? Are there social rules to follow? Relax and learn from this advice on modern dating from someone who found love online. Is it possible to find love in modern dating? Yes, it is. I know a number of people who met their partners online and are now happily married. I am one of them! I met my husband via online dating. If you know me, you know that it is so out of character for me to put myself out there so to speak. I'm an introvert. So the thought of creating an online profile on a dating site made me cringe at first. Inside I was screaming: "This is so not me!" Working from home for 12 hours a day, the chances of meeting someone from my workstation to our kitchen is zero. I talked to a friend about this dilemma and she told me to try online dating. She's met a few nice ones.Her advice was simple:Block someone you don't like. How to make modern dating work for you? Advice on Modern Dating Keep private things private After I weighed the advantages of modern dating several times, I finally decided to do it. I posted a photo and a bio that's as descriptive as I can make without giving away information that are too personal. How? Just put the details you can afford the world to know. Share what you're ready to share to anyone you meet. There are questions you can skip if you're not comfortable with answering them. Don't give your address or contact number. Don't give personal information that can be used to harm you. Giphy Be modest Some girls post almost naked photos online and complain about men sending them abusive or harassing messages. Yes, even when you post modest pictures, you'll still get harassed. I was. So I agree that it is not really about the way you dress. You can't help it if some men are naturally a*holes. Be classy. Be modest. Not for other people but for yourself. Dress appropriately. Dress for the occasion. Some photos aren't meant to be posted online. How to know if you should post that flattering photo or not? Think about it this way: if your children or grandchildren will see it, will it make them want to un-see it or will they be okay with it? Or use your better judgment. Giphy Follow your instinct If someone makes you feel inappropriate, don't try to justify it. Some online predators are good in manipulating their victims by making them feel like it's their fault. Don't accept this BS. If he makes you feel uncomfortable, follow what my friend told me: block that person! Or do what I did. I reported first (so admin of online dating sites can investigate if this person is a spam or troll and make appropriate action), then blocked them too. Follow your gut feeling at all times. Enjoy the process but be smart and vigilant. If marriage is the ultimate goal of your dating, you have a lifetime ahead of you. There is no reason to rush the person or the situation. Take your time in knowing the person. Gifsec Use it to your advantage One of the pros of online dating is that the other person can't touch you or do anything harmful to you from his end. That is, if you won't give him the power to. Use modern dating to your advantage. Stay on the safe side. If he's really serious about pursuing you, he will find a way. That's when you can also determine who's serious or who's just there to prowl for their next catch. Giphy Don't invest in emotions quickly If you think it won't work, move on. I've met a few who had the potential of being a good partner; a good conversationalist, respectful even when we have different opinions, funny, talented, smart, and attractive. It could be exciting exchanging messages but be careful to not fall in love too soon. One of the reasons you may be trying online dating like foc.dating is because you haven't found luck on traditional face-to-face dating. Like in real-life dating, just enjoy the getting-to-know stage first. As they say, "Explore your partner's mind and not their bodies." Modern dating is where that could be observed. See if your partner could handle different types of topics and how they express their views. How respectful are they when you both disagree? In the end when you're old and weak, sex will be out of the question. But you'll always have conversations. Giphy Involve people in your life It is important to ask for other people's advice. Third party can see more clearly and therefore can tell you honestly what they think is happening. They are your reality check because they could be objective. When you've arrived to the point of meeting in person, let family and friends know about your whereabouts. If possible, bring someone with you. Meet in a public place in broad daylight There are many reports of people meeting for the first time after chatting online that didn't end well. So to be safe, bring a friend or friends in your meet-up. They don't have to join you at your table. Just keep them around to keep an eye on you. What I did as I went alone (I was confident as we're meeting in my "territory"), was I shared every detail to my cousins in our group chat. They're actively asking me where I was and I would tell them. I would even send photos of where we ate, as well as screenshots of Grab driver details. If something wrong would happen, they have the information needed to track me. (Thank God they didn't need it). Meet in a public place during daytime. Make sure you know the place. It's safer for you both. Tumblr Pray about it I prayed about online dating before meeting someone. Is this the right path for me? Well, I will lose nothing if I try. When someone asks me how I know it was him because it seems too fast, I always say it's because I felt calm inside. There was no pressure. I was not rushing. I was not scared to be alone but the thought of being with him isn't scary at all too. It was promising. There were questions and doubts but he has proven himself to me that convinced me to take a leap of faith. Most of all, he's a man of God. Not just in words but in action. I don't think you can go wrong with someone who puts Jesus first before anything else. Giphy Conclusion Modern dating is not easy. There will be jerks, indecent proposals, misunderstandings with some and there will be ghosting. I've lost interest at some point and decided to quit it. Why do I keep my profile when I don't even check it anymore? Why do I even bother when I don't even open some messages and just delete them, blocking senders or ignore invites altogether? But I decided to give it one more try before turning my back to it forever. I decided to reply to the last messages and see where it will take me. I'm so glad I did. Because after I replied to this one man, we never stopped chatting since. Modern dating, this thing I considered superficial and not worth considering before I tried it, actually changed my life. Take this advice on modern dating. It's from someone who found love online after all.
Health & Wellness Shy vs. Introverted: Similarities, Differences, Perceptions 3:19 PM Shy vs. Introverted: Similarities, Differences, Perceptions Ever had moments when the idea of speaking to a group made your palms sweat and your heart race? Or do you prefer being the wallflower to being the center of attention? We've all been there, experiencing the tug of introversion and the jitters of shyness. Most people assume that being shy and introverted is the same, but that can't be further from the truth. That's coming from a shy kid who later enjoyed speaking on stage but still prefers the quiet of a good book to a loud party scene. And that's what I'm sharing today: shy vs. introverted. Their similarities, differences, and perceptions of society towards them. Introvert vs. Shy Individuals The terms' shyness' and 'introversion' are often used interchangeably, but do they actually refer to the same personality trait? The truth is, they don't. They are different in how people relate to their surroundings and to themselves. By the end of this article, I hope to give you a clearer perspective on these two personality types, their distinguishing features, and societal perceptions. Understanding Shyness Shyness can be described as discomfort or inhibition in social situations, causing one to avoid social interactions. It is often linked with feelings of low self-esteem and self-consciousness. Shyness is a reaction to fear, which might occur when a person is around strangers or in unfamiliar situations.Gfycat Characteristics of a shy person hesitancy in speaking aversion to attentionfear of judgment or criticism exhibiting specific body language that communicates their discomfort - perhaps by avoiding eye contact or fidgeting.Shyness can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and is common in various social scenarios. How society perceives shyness As for societal perceptions, shyness often gets a bad rap. It's commonly mistaken for weakness, lack of confidence, or incompetence. Shy individuals can be just as competent and intelligent as their more outgoing counterparts, but their quiet nature often gets misinterpreted. Understanding Introversion On the other hand, being introverted is an integral part of human personality theory. An introvert is someone who tends to turn inward mentally. Introverts are more focused on internal thoughts, feelings, and moods rather than seeking external stimulation. They draw energy from solitude, and too much social interaction can leave them feeling emotionally drained. Characteristics of an introvertreference for solitudeenjoying activities that they can do alone or in a small group often needing time alone to recharge after social activitiesIntroverts don't necessarily hate social activities; they simply have a unique way of reacting. How society perceives introverts From the societal point of view, introverts are often misunderstood as aloof, unfriendly, or antisocial. This isn't necessarily true. Introverts can enjoy social situations, too; they just prefer them in smaller doses. Introversion isn't about being antisocial but being selectively social. Curious WriterI wrote about the 10 common misconceptions about introverts based on my own experience? READ IT HERE. Shyness vs. Introversion Let's look at their origin, social interaction, and comfort levels to better understand the distinction and overlap between introvert vs. shy characteristics. Differences between shyness and introversion: Origin: Shyness is often a response to fear — specifically, fear of social judgment or criticism. Introverts prefer calm and less exciting environments due to their personality. Social Interaction: Shy individuals may want to join social activities but hold back due to anxiety. On the other hand, introverts may opt out of certain social situations simply because they prefer solitude or a quiet evening with a few close friends. Comfort Level: Shyness can cause discomfort and distress in social settings. Introversion, in contrast, doesn't inherently cause discomfort; it's just a different way of engaging with the world.Similarities between shyness and introversion: Reserved Nature: Both shy and introverted individuals often exhibit a reserved nature. This might manifest as quietness or a preference for solitude.Misunderstandings: Shy individuals and introverts are both susceptible to being misunderstood. Shyness can be mistaken for aloofness, while introversion can be misconstrued as antisocial behavior. Wiffle GifPersonal Experiences: From a Shy Child to an Introverted AdultI was your typical shy kid in school. I struggle with interacting with my peers or speaking my mind in class. Although I usually know the answer, I rarely speak up unless someone asks me. During recitation, I pray to all the saints in heaven that my name will not be called, and I avoid eye contact with the teacher. This sense of discomfort in my skin, this shyness, was tied to a bundle of low self-esteem I carried everywhere (But that's another story). As adolescence knocked on the door, things started to change. I gradually shed my shyness. But my fondness for quiet places and intimate talks stayed intact. Delivering a class presentation wasn't the Everest it used to be, but given a choice between a house party and a quiet evening with a gripping novel, the book won hands down every time.This was my introduction to the world of introversion, a world where solitude is not lonely and quiet is comfortable. A world where social gatherings are not a nightmare but need strategic planning to ensure downtime afterward. As I grew up, I realized that my shyness turned into introversion. I'm no longer afraid of social interactions, but I prefer having fewer of them - or none. Lol!Taking the Myers-Briggs personality test only validated my self-realization. I found out that I'm an INFJ personality type. It made me understand further and appreciate my personality traits and preferences.Self.com How to Deal with Shyness and Introversion I've learned that embracing your natural tendencies, whether towards shyness or introversion, is essential. But learning self-management skills can improve work and relationships for individuals with specific characteristics. Strategies for managing shyness: Self-perception: Remember, everyone feels a little shy now and then. Embrace it as part of your humanity; don't let it define you. Practice: Like any skill, social interaction gets better with practice. Start with small steps - initiate a conversation, join a social activity, or speak up in a group. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. It's okay if you feel shy or intimidated sometimes. Don't pressure yourself to be constantly outgoing.Strategies for utilizing introversion as a strength:Prioritize Your Energy: As an introvert, it's okay to say no to social activities that leave you emotionally drained. Your energy is valuable; spend it wisely.Leverage Your Listening Skills: Introverts are often great listeners. Use this strength in your personal and professional life.Value Your Solitude: Embrace your preference for solitude. Use this time for creative pursuits, self-reflection, or simply recharging.Social Anxiety vs. Introversion Social anxiety is often confused with introversion. Social anxiety refers to the intense fear or anxiety that someone experiences when in social situations. It's much more than mere shyness or introversion. It's essential to consult with a mental health professional if you feel your fear of social situations is negatively impacting your life. Here's a simple comparison of social anxiety and shyness from Psych2go. Shy vs. Introverts Key Takeaway Here's a quick recap: Shyness and introversion differ; one stems from fear of social judgment, the other from a preference for less stimulating environments. Shy individuals often want to join social activities but hold back due to fear or anxiety. Introverts might decline the same activities out of preference. Both shyness and introversion have their strengths. Shyness can foster empathy and sensitivity, while introversion can cultivate deep thinking and creativity.Being shy or introverted isn't a problem to be solved but a part of your unique personality to be understood and embraced.You are beautiful just the way you are. Author's Note Please remember that this article is only meant to be informative based on my experience and thorough research. It should not be used for self-diagnosis. If you have concerns about personality traits or anxiety, please consult a licensed professional. Tenor5 Powerful and Beautiful Quotes about Shyness Shyness has a strange element of narcissism, a belief that how we look and how we perform is truly important to other people. - Andre Dubus Shyness is just egoism out of its depth. - Penelope Keith Bashfulness may sometimes exclude pleasure but seldom opens any avenue to sorrow or remorse. - Richard Steele Our shyness is our own self-centeredness sticking out. - Peter Marshall Being shy is not something to aim to overcome. Being shy is a unique strength, a sensitivity to the feelings of others. - Unknown5 Powerful and Beautiful Quotes about Introverts or Introversion Introverts treasure the close relationships they have stretched so much to make. - Adam S. McHugh Introverts are collectors of thoughts, and solitude is where the collection is curated and rearranged to make sense of the present and future. - Laurie Helgoe In an extroverted society, the difference between an introvert and an extrovert is that an introvert is often unconsciously deemed guilty until proven innocent. - Criss Jami Let's clear one thing up: Introverts do not hate small talk because we dislike people. We hate small talk because we hate the barrier it creates between people. - Laurie Helgoe (This answers the question: "Are introverts less talkative?" A friend pointed out that I talk a lot if I love the topic and am comfortable with the people around me.) An introvert may feel asocial when pressured to go to a party that doesn't interest them. They'd much rather spend time with people they know well and care about. - Laurie HelgoeGiphyBoth shyness and introversion have their own charm. My husband is extremely extroverted, but we still work out. He respects and gives me my space, and I let him lead and talk my ears off when he needs to. 😁How about you? Do you identify more as shy or introverted? Or a bit of both? How do you play to your strengths? I'd love to hear about your experiences and wisdom in the comments below! Header image from Freepik
