Edith writing from north of Boston, where all is quiet and cold.
I’m happy to welcome author friend Susan Furlong to the blog to celebrate her new Bone Gap Travellers mystery, Shattered Justice and to talk about joy … for introverts.
In the Appalachian town of Bone Gap, Tennessee, backwoods justice is more than just blind. It’s swift, silent, and shockingly personal. Especially for Irish Traveller turned deputy sheriff Brynn Callahan . .
More Joy in 2020
I’m not afraid to admit it – I’m an introvert.
But let’s face it, New Year’s Eve with its loud parties and rambunctious crowds isn’t exactly an introvert’s venue. In the past I’ve caved into the pressure and forced myself out of my comfort zone and hit the party scene, only to feel like a fish out of water. But this year I planned to do New Year’s Eve my way: at home, spending a quiet evening with family, eating pizza and playing games.
This decision made me evaluate a few of the other decisions I make throughout the year and spurred on a list of resolutions that I want to share with fellow introverts:
- Know Yourself
Being an introvert is an asset, not a negative. Introverts are not anti-social or shy, they simply need extra time to be alone and recharge. Introverts are deep thinkers, good listeners, observant and sensitive to others’ needs. In short, introverts have an abundance of quiet strength.
- Lose the FOMO (fear of missing out)
While I love my family and friends, and cherish my time with them, my propensity for togetherness isn’t the same as theirs. I prefer to grab a cup of coffee with a friend rather than go to a big party. Do I feel like I’m missing out? Sometimes. But I value those one on one, meaningful discussions I have with my friends, and it’s difficult to do that in a noisy crowd. So, even though I’m missing the party, I’m not missing out on true relationship connections.
- Lose the Guilt
There is nothing wrong with being an introvert, even when it seems like the rest of the world is partying. Introverts know how to make their own parties. It may not look exciting to some, but to me, an evening alone, curled up in my favorite chair with a book is actually very exciting. I make no apologies for that! And this year, I won’t feel guilty for saying “no” to extraneous social invitations.
- Be a Quiet Source of Strength
Being a friend often means listening to problems and providing gentle encouragement and advice. Introverts possess the ability to think through problems and resolve issues and conflict. They excel in one-on-one, meaningful interactions, and value their relationships. Introverts are true, loyal friends. Whatever 2020 brings, I plan to be there for my family and friends.
- Embrace Your Inner-self
I read somewhere that almost ninety percent of New Year’s Resolutions fail. Maybe that’s because we’re always reaching to attain things outside our natural tendencies. So, this year, let’s resolve to embrace our inner-self, introvert or extrovert, and do more things that will bring us happiness.
Readers: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Comment below with one resolution that suits your personality and will bring you more joy in 2020. One US commenter will receive a signed hardcover copy of Shattered Justice.
Susan Furlong launched her Bone Gap Travellers series with the acclaimed novel Splintered Silence. She’s worked as a freelance writer, academic writer, translator, high school language arts teacher, and a martial arts instructor. She and her family live in central Illinois. You can find her at www.susanfurlong.com.