Maude here.
To follow up on the last blog, I wanted to share what we’re doing this holiday season a bit further when I mentioned charitable acts. Personally, I’m finding a fine balance between being introverted and being helpful. I realize that when I’m actively helping others as an introvert, it can be energetically draining, thus my number one slice of advice is to spend as much time helping yourself as you do helping others. If it takes a day to go out of your way to help someone else, spend a day taking care of your own needs (even if that need is to shut down for a day and regroup).
Tip number two is to give wherever and whenever you can. This doesn’t have to be monetary AT ALL. Giving is simply putting out the word that you are available to help someone in need. Quincy and I have been helping friends out with various things, like end-of-the-semester studying, a listening ear, treating people out to much-needed outings, and creating a space where people can be themselves in our company. It’s as simple as that! It doesn’t need to be grand gestures… it’s all about making people feel loved and cared for. If you can do bigger things, DO IT. If you can’t, stick with gentle commitments and give your friend and family community some extra help.
Tip numero tres: LISTEN. Listen a lot. Ask questions and hear the answer. Some people just need to be acknowledged and heard.
Listen, everybody… whether you’re introverted or not, giving is easy. It’s easy when it comes from your heart. That’s the secret. It’s gotta be real, it has to be sincere, and it has to be something you can share wholeheartedly. It’s called “the season of giving” for a reason. It’s not an obligation, it’s a privilege to make someone’s life a little easier.
Get out there and do it.
Ermahgerd Perterters 