this post was submitted on 22 Apr 2024
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me_irl
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I remember during Covid lock downs extroverts were loosing their minds and blaming their extrovertism for their cabin fever.
First of all, true isolation is unhealthy and crazy inducing for everyone, that's why they still use solitary confinement in prisons for further punishment, so no, extroverts, you're not special for feeling depressed during a global pandemic. (but yes, it did suck extra for them)
But so many extroverts seemed to assume lock downs were an introverts wet dream. There was very little attempt to understand each other. I'd see introverts empathising with extroverts who were struggling, but the reverse rarely happened, extroverts just seemed to assume "you introverts must be loving this solitude" and when myself and others tried to open up about how we were struggling I would hear "yeah but you like being alone, you're used to it" like that makes it easier.
At no point did I really see any of the extroverts I know, or anyone online posting about how "wow, being pushed this far out of my comfort zone by lockdowns sucks, is this how introverts feel when I force them to actively engage in crowded, highly social parties?"
Not that I expect the middle of a planet wide plague to be the time I'd suddenly expect people to show self reflection and emotional maturity, but it was still worth the observation.
I mean... Of course everyone feels different, but I personally didn't mind the lockdown at all because of those exact reasons. Yes, I like being home, I like being alone, and while I also like going out and seeing friends from time to time, knowing that they also can't go out took the FOMO away that often motivates me to participate in social activities.
I honestly did not notice a big change in my lifestyle or emotional state during the lockdown, while some extrovert friends spiralled pretty hard.
But once again, those feelings are different for everyone. I just don't like generalising. My extroverted friends are also very respectful and give me space when I need it or ask for it, so acting like extroverts are just assholes with no regard for their friends makes me think some of you need better friends.
I liked the lockdown. It was nice not to need to find excuses not to come to any social gatherings and the mask mandates made it so I didnt have to smell anyone the few times I had to go out