Ready to Vacate Your Island?

Some people are introverts.  They really thrive on alone time, and socializing for them can often feel a bit too much. It is important that if we live with or date an introvert, to be aware that their social battery can become drained pretty quickly.

Others are extroverts- they get energized by being around people, and often are great at making social plans, nurturing friendships and are the first to pick up the phone to text a friend, what are you doing tonight?

Then there are the rest of us... the ambiverts.  We can get our batteries super charged by being around safe others, and also need and thoroughly enjoy our down, quiet, solo time.  Both can feel recharging and rejuvenating for us, depending on the day and what we feel we need most. 

But whether you are introvert, extravert, or ambivert, one thing we all need is community.  We are created to need safe others.  The introverts benefit from crawling out of their cave, and taking a break from their island to connect with others.  

Extraverts and ambiverts have already discovered that they thrive with a healthy mix of  alone time, social time, and meaningful connection time with  a partner, a friend or a small social group.

The reality is, none of us were created to be alone all the time.  We literally cannot thrive in chronic isolation.  

Studies have shown us that people who regularly engage in social activities, experience social connection and support on a regular basis tend to live longer, experience less disease and sickness, and may extend both their life and health span.

Because we are wired for safe contact and connection with other humans, we need to be diligent to make it happen! 

This of course is much easier when we are young and  in school where there is an influx of other students we come in contact with on the daily.

But too often once we hit adulthood, and then responsibilities of work and family, we too often let go of those important friendships and relationships that once mattered greatly to us.

The other fall out of this, is we often come to depend on a partner or spouse to meet all of our needs including all of our social and emotional needs- and that is not realistic or healthy.

We need community.  We need safe connections.  When we build strong communities that are on a mission together to create safer living spaces, support one another and be on important missions together, every body wins. 

Consider taking the risk of reaching out to an old friend to connect.  Maybe this is the week that you check in on an elderly neighbor or bring them some soup.  Perhaps you and your partner might set up a date / game night with some friends.  If you are unpartnered, consider joining organizations that bring people together like a local hiking group.  

There are lots of ways to forge meaningful connections with others. We just have to elevate the importance of doing so and remind ourselves that it is worth the time it takes to schedule in some fun play time, or even to relax with a smoothie or cup of coffee and catch up with a friend or a former co worker.

Let's make Kitsap a place where we all thrive.   Together we can, Live Well Kitsap!