My husband would often suggest I take a break and go out by myself, but I had a serious fear of missing any part of the precious newborn stage. Perhaps I was told one too many times that “it goes by so fast”.
I knew nothing about baby sleep and *should* have been putting my son in bed for naps before he was passing out on me. Still, I would not trade those newborn snuggles for anything.
These days, I have time to myself to regroup and reflect and sit in the quiet.
These days though, there is another challenge I’ve found as a very introverted mother.
I have a super social 18 month old and very much want to encourage his outgoing personality.
Perhaps it’s too early to tell, but if I had to guess, I’d say he is far more extroverted than either my husband or I.
It seems he didn’t get the memo on “stranger danger” and goes up to anyone and everyone to chat and offer hugs.
When we go to a park I have a strong urge to find a quiet spot way in the back corner with no people where we can play and enjoy nature without the threat of small talk. I fight that urge though because I don’t want to pass on my own anxieties and shyness to my chatty, bubbly little guy.
Just as I never want to make a child (or anyone for that matter) feel ashamed for being “shy,” I don’t want him to ever feel like it’s weird or wrong to make friends with everyone he sees.
I want to nurture his easy smile and his curiosity about new people and his love of making friends, even if every part of me wants to retreat and avoid social interactions with strangers.
I know this is a bit rambly and I don’t really have a point. I just wanted to share what’s been on my mind in case another introvert out there is facing the same challenge.
Are you an extrovert or an introvert?
Originally published HERE.
Originally published on Montesori-ish Mom. Christina is a Montessori teacher, wife, and mum to one pretty awesome little boy, living in Austin, Texas. She writes about all things motherhood, Montessori, and everyday life.
