Last week was a crazy busy week for me.

And it was all being busy with people things. I did lots of work things with people – events, in person, planning, etc. Some of those people were really emotional because they were significant events, such as memorial services. I had several group coaching things. I did lots of music things – rehearsals, dress rehearsals, concerts, after party. So many people things.

On Sunday night, I had to just leave a party and go home. I HAD TO GO. Not much I could really do about it. I’d had too much peoples.

You see, I’m an introvert (and an empath, but that’s just a side comment, really.)

I kinda fake it. Many people think I’m an extrovert because I can lead groups and perform and facilitate and party and present and speak. I can do all the things that extroverts do.

It just costs me. It costs me a lot. It takes all of my energy.

And at some point I just about shut down. I go on low power mode until I can get home and recharge – like I did on Sunday.

I have to recharge alone. Okay, my cats and dog can be there, but no one else. I can’t even watch people on TV, but a book is okay. So is swimming, or riding my bike – anything I can do by myself. I can actually feel the battery charging.

That’s the definition of an introvert I know best – someone who uses energy to be around people. An extrovert GETS energy being around people. (I know that these abominable show people exist, they aren’t myths, but yikes, I can’t fathom.)

In my case, it’s a bit less draining around people I know and like, and I definitely get some energy (a trickle charge) from being around people I LOVE, but the fastest charge comes from true solitude.

And I have another weekend coming up that is gonna be like the last one. So what am I doing? Storing up energy. Intentionally. Managing my calendar. Saying no to some things.

Why do I share this? I’m certain that most of you have a care factor of zero about my personal details. I share it as an example of…wait for it…

Self care.

Yup. Self care means doing what we need to do to be able to show up as the best version of ourselves. In my case, it’s battery maintenance. In your case, it might be something else.

Do what you need to do. It isn’t selfish, it’s self care. Remember, people are counting on you!

In the meantime, remember these things: You are loved. We are all loved. Let’s all be kind. And in all things – progress, not perfection!

Love, and light in the shadows,

Maggie