Lisa Wendorff12 Things Introverts Are Thankful for This Thanksgiving
Updated: Dec 8, 2020
What are you thankful for? It’s a common question to hear this time of year.
Thanksgiving 2020 may look a little different compared to years past, but there are many things for introverts to be grateful for this fall.
We’ve started a list of some of the things us introverts can especially appreciate this season. Do you have items to add to the list? Add them in the comments, below. We’d love to hear from you!
1. Pets
Our fur buddies have become not only our best friends and roommates, but in many cases, our coworkers. Whether you are a cat, dog, bird, fish or iguana pet parent, you know that your pet understands you and gives you unconditional love – even on your roughest day.
2. Curbside Pickup
Life as we knew it changed very quickly in 2020, but one change that introverts embraced quickly was the newly-established curbside pickup of online orders at their favorite brick-and-mortar retail stores and restaurants. No lines, no awkward small talk with the cashier – perfect!
3. Nature
Nature can often provide inspiration for creative minds. As plans changed and social schedules dwindled, many an introvert turned toward lunchtime neighborhood walks and weekend hikes in local parks. Clouds, wildflowers, raindrops and the changing color of leaves can dissolve even the most stubborn creative block.
4. Creative Possibilities
Pivot, pivot, pivot! The pandemic has opened up our minds to new ways of thinking and creativerts have risen to the challenge. Whether working from home, dreaming up a new marketing strategy, or trying a new art project – creativerts have embraced the social distancing lifestyle.
5. Satisfaction of a Job Well Done
Introverts may not often call attention to themselves to “toot their own horn” at the conclusion of a project, but they do enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. Remember to thank all of your teammates at your next project launch, because a “good job” comment may be all it takes to make an introvert’s day. And you might get a smile in return!
6. Video Conferencing and Webinar Platforms
Video conferencing and webinar platforms were available prior to 2020, but now both our professional and personal lives seem to revolve around them. However, whether virtual or in-person, meetings are still meetings and for introverts they often inspire doodles, daydreams, and deep conversations.
7. Mom’s Recipes
Many of us may not see our extended family this Thanksgiving. But, we can cook family recipes and pretend that we’re all together. Or use video conferencing (see #6) to show off your cooking skills. (Remember to say “thanks Mom,” too.)
8. Naps
Naps have been known to clear the mind and inspire creativity. That’s why introverts often like a bit of solitude to set aside the million different things rumbling around in their brains and slow down for a few minutes.
9. Caring Community
Even introverts miss the days of art festivals, live music, and community events. There was something magical about losing yourself in the anonymity of a crowd. But, while introverts value their alone time, it’s also nice to know that they are surrounded by a caring community of family, friends and neighbors.
10. Sweatshirts and Blankets
On cool fall days, a soft sweatshirt or blanket, fresh out of the dryer, feels like a warm hug. Snuggly, soft goodness!
11. A Good Laugh
Even introverts are feeling a bit more anxious these days, but a good laugh can often chase away a bit of that anxiety. Whether you are watching a classic rom-com movie or learning a new knock-knock joke, laughter is an effective pandemic coping tool.
12. Music
Music has often been a form of escapism for many introverts. Listening to a current favorite or a song from childhood can help introverts forget their cares and get their creative juices flowing.