The New Normal, a Boon for Introverts

Source: Mohamed Hassan, Pixabay, Public Domain

When COVID wanes, some people will blast into the Roarin’ 20s: party hard, travel often, shop ‘til you drop at the mall.

But many introverts will react differently. They'll plan to largely continue their mainly solo life despite no longer having COVID as a socially acceptable excuse. And the New Normal will likely make life easier for the introvert.

Work. The pandemic has helped many employers realize that employees can do a good job working at home while saving employers money on office space. So, moving forward, many employers will allow, even encourage, remote work for at least part of the week. Fortunate employees will get a choice, one manifestation of the hybrid model.

As a result, many introverts will be relieved at not having to make small talk with coworkers in the cube farm or break room, or be afraid that forgoing the office TGIFs will get you perceived as aloof and not a team player.

Home. At home, there also will be less pressure to be social if only because the pandemic forced more people, including extroverts, to get into solo activities. Even my extroverted clients report spending more time on gardening, cooking and baking, writing, music, video games, playing on the computer, redecorating, quilting, and yes, binge-watching TV and movies.

Also, I'd imagine that introverts are overrepresented among the horde that is emptying the dog pounds and rescues. My clients have reported that the pickings are good if you like chihuahuas or pit bulls. If not, you may have more choice without having to patronize a puppy mill if you contact local veterinary offices. Often, their patients include pregnant or new-mom dogs and cats, whose puppies and kittens will soon be available for adoption.

Spirituality. Organized religion was in decline even before COVID but houses of worship are taking an extra beating because COVID has curtailed in-person services and other activities. That will likely continue, which benefits introverts. For example, they won't have to beg their partner to let them forgo that church service, supper, or fundraiser. Yet spiritual introverts can meet their needs solo by attending video services, and by reading and watching teachers on the internet.

The takeaway

Of course, even the most introverted people wish the pandemic never occurred, but they have likely disproportionately enjoyed silver linings, which could well extend into the New Normal.

I read this aloud on YouTube.