Celebrate The Fact That Life Affects You Deeply

It’s important to acknowledge that an introvert’s brain functions differently than the brains of extroverts. Different levels of thinking (deeply rather than surface) happen in different parts of the brain. PET scans have shown that introverts spend more time in the part of the brain that thinks deeply (accessing memory, problem solving)…pathways to that part require different neurotransmitters. It turns out that introverts also have a greater sensitivity to dopamine, the neurotransmitter that gives thrill seekers their ‘high’. Thrill seekers (often extroverts) love the dopamine rush. So an introverted thrill-seeker can feel at odds with them self biologically and emotionally.

Introvert’s brains are already highly active due to the way they process their thoughts. Add to that their sensitivity to dopamine, and it’s no wonder that introverts need plenty of downtime. The world is an exciting place…the best way to handle the excitement for an introvert is to monitor their exposure to it. Plan for it. Know that you will probably experience overload in new and exciting activities, and have strategies in place that will allow you to balance your energy as often as needed.

So to all introverts: Celebrate the fact that life affects you deeply…enjoy your rich inner journey and feed your natural tendencies to retreat to your quiet zone. Life is an adventure no matter how you experience it.