My father-in-law wanted to spend every second together when we used to visit him in California. One time, his wife (also an introvert) and I snuck off to watch the Property Brothers because we couldn’t handle another minute of small talk. My father-in-law found us and threw a tub of cookies at us to express his displeasure. We held onto our boundaries.
Each year, I see the same lists of strategies introverts should keep in their back pocket for when the holidays get to be too much. Set firm boundaries. Leave events early. Schedule time to recharge. Shop online. Some of them are realistic. Others not so much.
Here’s a strategy I’ve found helpful, especially if you’ll be traveling: Start a novel or a TV series before you leave. That way, you’ll already be familiar with the characters, and they’ll seem like old friends. If you choose a novel that has sequels, even better. You can go back to visit those friends for months.
If you’re looking for recommendations, two sets of books I enjoy are Louise Penny’s Three Pines series starring Inspector Gamache, and Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club books. Both authors have created deeply human characters.
With all the streaming services available, I’m sure you don’t need my recommendations for a good show to watch. But do start something before the holidays get crazy. Or go back and rewatch something you enjoyed.
And then make sure you give yourself permission to not be a perfectionist. To take the time to read or watch what you’ve chosen. Put those introvert strategies you see every year to good use.
And if someone throws a tub of cookies at you, hold onto those boundaries—and enjoy the snack.
