Diary of an Overwhelmed Introvert
Oversocializing is real and “No” is a complete sentence
Science has proven the benefits of social connections, the pitfalls of isolation, and the health effects of loneliness but it turns out the right dose matters.
Socializing is a dish best served in moderation: some socializing is good while too much doesn’t improve things, and excessive social demands are bad for health, especially because individual demands for solitude vary.
The only sphere in which it’s impossible to overdo is Halloween decorations, but that isn’t a scientific fact just a seasonal observation.
Overdoing is a problem in myriad spheres, whether exercise, work, vitamins, owning cats, or visiting family. It’s a case of too-muchness, and I fear that we Americans are culturally vulnerable.
I’d never put two and two together when it comes to social engagement, believing I’m far more at risk for too much isolation as opposed to too many parties, but I’m starting to see how over-peopling is causing me harm.
Studies show that going from rare social interactions to monthly engagements confers a quantifiable boost to health, making the average person about 10% happier. The equivalent in physical exercise would be moving from sedentariness to a daily 20-minute…
