Well it could come to pass that the devastation caused by COVID could be slowing. Certainly not in all countries of the world, but here in the US restrictions are easing. People are returning to the office in some fashion more and more. My own return to the office date is only a few weeks away. One thing I've learned about myself over the last 14 months is how much of an introvert I truly am. I haven't had the anxiety of being home all the time, but in most cases and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I get bored as anyone does, but a good book, a float in the pool, a hike or a drive around town can normally set that to right. The thought of returning to the office full-time is somewhat anxiety worthy for some. I have mixed feelings on the topic myself. I'm neither anxious or excited, but rather to coin my husbands phrase 'it is what it is'. I'm not excited to go back 5 days a week to be surrounded by a large group of ppl that I do not know or have direct working relationship with. I have missed the camaraderie of my team though.
I look back at the pre-COVID me and social settings and i realize how much energy I expended daily to be in social situations and that isn't something I am looking forward to going back to. The question will become is how to manage this new found self in the old world that has come around again.
I realize this post is likely to be odd to some folks who know me. They'll think 'but jc is so funny' or 'he's so energetic in meetings' and that is true, but there is a difference between public and private for introverts. In some we play the part we need to in order to get the job done and pay the bills. I'm in the camp where my comfort makes the social interaction a lot less taxing. Being on calls with individuals I know and enjoy working with reduce the drain considerable.
Extroverts may not relate, but going back to the old normal just doesn't seem fun for some of us.
Peace, dogs and man-bags
jc
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