This isn’t antisocial. It isn’t a sign of depression. It does not call for medication. For introverts, to be alone with our thoughts is as restorative as sleeping, as nourishing as eating. Our motto: “I’m okay, you’re okay—in small doses.”

— Jonathan Rauch, “Caring for Your Introvert,” The Atlantic

All this reading about introversion is teaching me a lot about myself and explaining why I never went to parties and never put effort into trying to date.  When I say other people are exhausting, it’s not just me being dramatic.  I am psychologically drained by social situations.  

Being an introvert doesn’t mean I like being lonely, though.  I feel like I need to try a little harder to put myself out there while knowing my limits.