I am extremely proud to be an introvert. It makes me the strong individual I am today. You might not think along the same lines as I do, but understanding and respecting the way I live will help everyone in the long run.

1. I don’t text first.

It's putting too much energy into a conversation I didn't need to have in the first place.

2. In fact, unless you ask me a question, I’m not going to respond.

3. If you want to know what I’ve been up to lately, check social media.

It's my way of telling all of my friends and loved ones that I'm not dead, and my life isn't empty; just without all of the fluff of physical social engagement.

4. I hate small talk.

It's predictable conversation day after day. Maybe we should stop talking until there's something new and exciting to say.

5. I probably don’t want to go to your party.

A group of people I barely know are dressing up to sit in the same three rooms and talk for a few hours? Unless it's your birthday party or I know you have impeccable music taste, I'd rather not.

6. The more people are going, the less likely I will.

More people means I am less likely to be missed, which means I can stay at home with less guilt while I pet my cat and watch TV.

7. My classes were enough social interaction for today.

I was quarantined with strangers for five hours. Do you expect me to be a bright ray of sunshine after that?

8. If you see me alone, leave me alone.

My solace is not an invitation for you to join me.

9. It’s not you, it’s everyone.

Being with my favorite people in the world wears me down as much as being with my least favorite people in the world. Don't take it personally because it's not about you.

10. Yes, we’re still friends.

As far as I'm concerned, friendship is bound by a mutual attraction to each other. Friendship is not defined by how often we talk to one another. Whether it means two days, two weeks, or two years, If we didn't fight and curse at one another, I assume we are still friends.

11. I’m not going to hold the conversation for both of us.

I am comfortable walking away in an awkward silence. I am not comfortable asking another filler question for the sixth time. Case closed.

12. If I’ve had a rough day, the last thing I want to do is talk about it.

13. When I want to socialize, I will.

I do come out of my hermit hole sometimes, when I have recharged entirely and have mentally prepared myself for the strenuous joy of other people.

14. I am more likely to say yes if you ask me two weeks beforehand.

It gives me more time to mentally pre-game myself into being excited about going out.

15. If you need something, ask.

I love helping with any number of literal or psychological troubles you may be having, but I'm not going to push you to talk about them.

16. But if you’re going to be high maintenance or needy, I’m out.

It will probably save you some disappointment too. I'm too busy taking care of myself to take care of you too.

17. I talk about my problems to hardly anyone.

Maybe three people total.

18. In fact, I have very few best friends

They've gotten where they are through years of companionship, not a 14-day Snapchat streak.

19. I don’t owe you anything.

Unless you introduce a friendship contract (which is already a significant warning sign of high maintenance), I have no obligation to talk to you if I don't feel up to it. It's not my job to be uncomfortable just so that you aren't bored.

20. I do care about you.

I pay attention to the lives of those around me. As soon as I feel excited enough to talk about it, I will encourage you to tell me anything you want to talk about.

21. My health comes first.

Without fail. No matter how much someone else needs me, I can't help them without taking care of me first.