I have always been an introvert, choosing to stay in and curl up with a takeout container and good movie most nights while the majority of my friends, as well as the wider Bucknell community, look forward to going out as many nights as possible each week.
Other than the occasional bout of FOMO, this lifestyle has served me well. I go out here and there and then have plenty of time and space to recover. This semester, though, things have been a little bit different. Intentionally!
I’m going abroad in the spring, so I figured I should take advantage of life at Bucknell while I can. Instead of immediately removing myself from potentially draining events, I have taken it upon myself to start saying “yes” to invitations I would normally decline.
When I feel myself leaning towards no, I force a yes out, unless there is a legitimate reason to abstain from a certain activity. This shift in mindset has proven extremely worthwhile. I have eaten fewer meals alone, attended more cultural events, and become a more balanced person overall.
Last week, I stayed up until 3am chatting with a friend at the laundromat, which may seem early to some of you, but I don’t think I have stayed up that late in two years! That night, I found that my strict eight-hour sleep schedule could wait. At that moment, this conversation was more important.
Another example is from this past Wednesday, when my friend and coworker came into work and asked whether she could stay with me in February when we’re both abroad. She had bought Noah Kahan tickets near me and did not want to take the train late at night.
In a matter of minutes, I had bought a ticket for myself, something that my summer self would have spent hours researching. It was absolutely liberating.
While I, more than anyone, understand the pull of your peaceful nighttime routine and reluctance to venture outside of familiarity, I encourage my fellow introverts to gradually embrace or at least attempt extroversion. You will undoubtedly make lasting memories and form stronger connections.
Remember, time is fleeting. Let this article serve as a challenge—in a day, a week, or a month, work up the courage to let yourself say “yes” to the crazy once in a while.