Introverted too. Has anybody else struggled with it throughout life?
It seems that many people don't accept it as the way somebody is and rather see it as something to be cured or worked on.
Bullied often at school for it, comments such as "You never shut up do you!"
I have been asked 'why' I'm quiet or shy.
There may be the odd comment about people who 'never stop talking' but it's not the same in my opinion.
I've been told "Wow I can't imagine you going to clubs/listening to X music/telling kids off."
I really struggle in social situations. Very fortunate to have a boyfriend I feel comfortable with and who is also introverted, but I find seeing other people hell sometimes.
In a group situation I tend to fade into the background. One to one, an hour tops is all I can manage before I make excuses to leave. I get so tired and drained and literally have nothing to say.
I've been rejected by dates for being too quiet and shy, by potential friends too.
I did see a therapist about it who told me to be true to myself and that I didn't need to change.
The shyness too is awful, I can feel myself going red and getting nervous when new people speak to me. Parties are an absolute nightmare, I tend to wander round on my own and make excuses to leave early.
I think I'm interesting though, I have various hobbies and travel often. I seem to do better when I have a shared experience with somebody such as working together.
I've fantasised many times about a WFH job where I don't have to interact with others. I've heard a colleague whisper that I was boring behind my back, and I'm considering changing job as I hate being alone with another colleague, they likely hate it too.
Just interested to hear if anybody else feels the same and has any stories or advice to share? I'm 30 now, thought things might improve but they haven't.