19 Comments
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Kate Guy's avatar

Every word of this is is like a warm bath on a cold day to an introvert, love it, thank you ❤️

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Brenda Campbell's avatar

I’m 64 and have spent a lot of my life in shame and burnout bc I was “defective” and “anti-social.” I burnt myself out trying to be something I wasn’t. I’m so glad that there is so much more information around introversion. I’m now at peace with who I am and I’m happy you learned these lessons at a much younger age! I saw a meme that said “You’re so quiet!” “Thanks! I wish you were too!” My new motto!

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Jules's avatar

This is life affirming. It's taken me 70 years to feel comfortable in my own skin. There is nothing wrong with me.

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Morwenna Campbell-Smith's avatar

Thank you for this Karun. I do so loathe big family multi-generational gatherings for all the reasons you say, though my step-family just don't understand this. Last Christmas was particularly grim, from my point of view!

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~Rainswept~'s avatar

i cant stand ANY family reunions to be honest! i don't relate to my family very well and I would rather be in my bedroom tbh. unfortunately the only person who makes them bearable is going to pass away soon, so I suppose just be praying for me :3

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Timothy Marcolini's avatar

I feel like I could have written this. Thanks so very much.

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Teresa Lukavec's avatar

Beautifully written…from an introvert that wakes up at 2am.

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emailtomb2b's avatar

Nice, you touched upon many aspects of my outlook and feelings. The instantaneous piercing of my psyche upon hearing a simple no stands out

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~Rainswept~'s avatar

this is beautiful, thank you so much

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Danielle Amory's avatar

"Protect your energy like it's sacred". That resonated with me. Yes, because your energy is sacred. 👏😉❤️

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Donna McArthur's avatar

Brilliant suggestions Karun, thanks. I especially appreciate the reminder not to feel guilty for being a highly sensitive introvert. It's a lifetime of work to let go of the need for approval and permission so conversations like these help nudge us forward.

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Esther Folasewa's avatar

Thank you so much Sir☺️

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Glenda's avatar

Like a couple of others here, at 67 I am finally understanding that being just me is ok and it's ok to not fit in the world. Slowly building a life that I love! Your writings are affirming, thank you.

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Sophie's avatar

This was so soothing to read. I needed these reminders. I also really loved how you talked about the need to remember that they will also be able to rationalize your no, just like you do for others. I think framing it that way will help me a lot in the future.

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Heather Collins's avatar

👍💯

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Cari's avatar

It's like you know me! 😉 Lovely letter, thank you for this.

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Karina Ahrer's avatar

Points 4 and 5 are the big lessons I learned the last few months full of networking events and meeting new people: I learned to listen to my body and my energy levels.

I could go to all the possible networking events that fit into my time, but after days 2 or 3, I wouldn't have any energy left to talk with people in a useful way.

Now I know my limit for weekly events (and take whole weeks off, too), and plan with that in mind. Life and business are a long-term game.

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