There was a time when I was afraid to call myself an introvert. I was worried that people would hear introvert and immediately label me as anti-social, awkward and shy. All the typical negative stereotypes given to introverts. After doing a bit of soul searching and research, I realized that there are so many wonderful qualities that I should celebrate. For example, many introverts have a great imaginations, they enjoy deep conversations, they’re great listeners, and they’re creative. The list could go on and on. Recognizing the positive traits of my personality ultimately lead to being able to fully embrace my introversion in all its glory. I’ve found that being an introvert means that you recharge by having alone time because your energy comes from within. Often, over stimulating activities can be very draining. While on the other hand, our extrovert counterparts get energized by being around others. Now this does not mean that introverts are anti-social or dislike any socializing. It does mean that they will eventually need alone time to recoup after prolonged interaction. Also, did you know that shy and introvert are not synonyms? You can be an out-going introvert. You could also be a shy extrovert. Heck, you can even be an ambivert, possessing qualities of both personality types. Not sure which category you fall in? I recommend taking a Myers-Briggs test to find out more about your fabulous personality.
I’ve found that a deeper understanding of my personality has given me insight on how to best serve my family. I am a better mom and wife when I’m properly energized. When I have not been able to recharge my mama battery, I’m more likely to be grumpy and not pleasant to be around. Not only do I feel mentally zapped, I literally feel physically drained. Thankfully, I have found a few glorious ways that help me when I’m feeling burnt out.
1. Exercise. Going for a nice run through my neighborhood is a great way to recharge mentally while taking care of myself physically too. Running not your thing? No problem. There’s a plethora of options when it comes to working out. You can workout at home, at the gym or outdoors. There are workout DVDs, group fitness classes, weight lifting programs and personal training. Find out what works for you and go for it. Exercising will help boost your mood, boost your energy and improve your mental functioning.
2. Take time to connect with a close friend or your significant other. As stated earlier, introverts tend to seek out deep connections with people and desire deep conversations. Although it’s technically not alone time, it can still be considered a way to be refreshed. There really is no right or wrong formula when it comes to charging your mama battery. Maybe you feel energized by spending time with your two closest girlfriends. Maybe having a date night with your significant other is the ticket. Find what really fills your tank by trying out a few different options.
3. Work on a solo hobby. I feel very reinvigorated when I make time for hobbies. There have been days when I would go up to my art studio and work for hours and be perfectly content not having any human interaction during that time. I know that may sound odd but once I get in the zone it’s hard to stop. I highly recommend finding a hobby that you can get lost in, too.
4. Do nothing. That’s right, you heard me. Give yourself permission to veg out. Watch a movie, listen to a podcast or sit outside and enjoy the sounds of nature. You may even need to schedule this on your calendar. If you’re like me, once you sit down, you’ll start thinking about all the things you need to do or things that may distract you from your recharge time. Remember to prioritize it. Because revving up your battery is important so that you can be at optimal functioning.
5. Work with what you’ve got. Sometimes carving out me time can seem next to impossible for moms. I’ve learned that I had to work with what I had. When my kids were younger, my husband was in a very time demanding graduate program and we had just moved away from all of our friends and family. Most of the time I was holding up the home front solo. I would escape to the local YMCA where I would pop my kiddos into the childcare center while I went to work out. It was glorious and saved my sanity. There were many times when I’d leave the kids at the grocery store childcare and shop in peace. That was a lifesaver. Also, if your child still naps, then take full advantage of that time to recharge. My kids have wonderful relationships with their grandparents, sending them for overnights was aahhh-mazing. It still is. My husband takes the kids on dad-dates to the park, library or out for ice cream. This gives them bonding time and I get my me time. Win-win! Get creative with finding your battery filling time.
Remember, mama, taking time to recharge your introvert battery is not selfish. It’s one of the best things you can do for your family. When you’re properly energized, you will be the best you that you can be.
Are you an introverted mama? How do you recharge your battery?
