Being an introvert in this loud and crazy world can be discouraging at times. The constant hustle and bustle go against our very nature and can cause us to wonder if there is something wrong in the way we perceive society and how we go about handling it. Well, I'm here to tell you that being an introvert is a beautiful trait to have, and one that deserves to be more appreciated.

I've heard numerous times from my friends that I am "too quiet" or "not sociable enough." I usually just shrug these off or protest that, sometimes, I simply like to stay in and read a good book rather than go out. However, a sense of insecurity also presents itself when I get these remarks. It feels as if I have to defend a part of myself or excuse my behavior for not following the norm of the majority. Yeah, sometimes I want to eat lunch by myself, but that does not make me a social outcast or a loner by any means.

These types of comments have been around my whole life. The world, after all, is built for extroverts. Growing up, we are forced to participate in group activities and bonding experiences, rather than being let alone to produce ideas and be creative. Our school system totally rejects the idea that one child may prefer to solitarily learn, while another may excel more in groups. But now that I am out of that stress, it has led me to find beauty in my silence and acceptance in my differences. Being louder than me does not make you a better person, just one that is more heard.

In conclusion, the advice I would give to my fellow introverts would be to just accept yourself and embrace the quiet. If you don't feel like going to lunch with an acquaintance in hopes that you could finish the last chapter of the book you've been pouring over for the last three weeks, don't feel obligated to do so. If you need to recharge after a long day of classes or work, take a night to treat yourself with your favorite things and definitely don't feel as if you have to socialize any further. There will be a tomorrow, and these things can easily be accomplished at a later date. Be there for yourself, first.