Navigating Social Distancing: Guilt-Free for Introverted Types

Have you ever felt ashamed for not wanting to be in a crowd, or for yearning for the quiet solitude of your home? As someone who identifies as an introvert or shares traits with introverted personality types, it can be challenging to navigate the world while observing social distancing guidelines during a pandemic.

Understanding Social Distancing and Introverted Types

Social distancing is an essential public health measure during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, for many introverts, this can lead to feelings of guilt. It’s important to address these emotions and understand that your actions are fundamentally a matter of personal need and preference, rather than a sign of deficiency.

Personal Experiences and Perspectives

As a disability-retired septuagenarian who does not drive and relies almost exclusively on delivery services, my lifestyle changed surprisingly little during pandemic restrictions. While I might not officially identify as an introvert based on my career and social history, my disability has resulted in a lifestyle that aligns with that of a "shut-in." Yet, guilt has never been an issue in this context.

Do psychological tests accurately measure personality types, like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)? I have no confidence in the validity of such tests, particularly the MBTI, as they are often labeled as pseudoscience at best. Similarly, INFJ types, known for their extroverted feeling function (Fe), are less likely to be content with social distancing. This further indicates that introverts with Fe in their shadow functions might be more accepting of distancing.

Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

My dad, an INTJ, did not mind social distancing at all, whereas I was desperate to speak to someone other than the same few people each day. This highlights the diversity of introverted experiences and preferences.

"I don’t feel guilty at all," one person shared. "We get to avoid people, and it's seen as doing a societal good—social jackpot!" This perspective emphasizes how social distancing can be viewed as a benefit.

ISTJ types, known for their introverted intuition (Ni), often feel strongly about their personal choices and do not experience guilt about them. "There is nothing to feel guilty about. I wasn’t even thinking about it until I came across this question. I mean nobody should feel guilty about things like that. We are who we are," they reflected.

Another individual, going to college once or twice a week and meeting friends outside, shares, "I am glad because at least I do not have to worry about making dumb decisions and getting the virus. I do not miss anything. Thanks for the A2A." This reinforces the idea that social distancing can equate to a safer, more comfortable life for introverts.

Conclusion

Whether you are an introvert, an INFJ, or any other personality type, it's crucial to recognize that your feelings and choices are valid. Social distancing is widely accepted as a public health measure, and for many, it can be a boon rather than a drawback.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling guilty about adhering to social distancing guidelines, remember that you are simply listening to your personal needs. Embrace the comfort, safety, and solitude that come with it, and recognize that you are making a positive contribution to society.