I’m an introvert.

I used to think introversion was a negative trait. Meaning that I was shy, socially awkward, and uncomfortable when in a crowd of people.

I used to think that being an introvert was something to be ashamed of and that I should try to be more extroverted so that I could develop myself and my career.

Then I read a few books on introversion, and realised that I had it all wrong.

“Shyness is the fear of social disapproval or humiliation, while introversion is a preference for environments that are not overstimulating. Shyness is inherently painful; introversion is not.”

Susan Cain, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking

I realised that it’s not that I’m shy or socially awkward. As a matter of fact I can be confident, chatty, and engaging in a group.

If I’ve had a day with lots of social or professional interactions. Then I need to spend time alone to refuel, recharge my batteries, and generally top-up my energy levels.

For me there’s a few things that help me to achieve this like reading a book, writing a blog, meditation, or exercise.

This is were running comes in.

As an introvert, running alone helps to recharge my batteries

No matter what time of day it is, if I go for a run I come back feeling energised. The time spent pounding the pavement or exploring the trails helps me to switch off, I put my physical energy in to my running focusing on times, routes, pace, etc. Whilst at the same time allowing my thoughts and problems to retreat to a place they’re not needed at that time.

By the end of a run I’m physically tired, but I’m mentally recharged!

So, don’t take it personally if I haven’t ran with you or a group for a while, or if during a group run I spend a portion of it running by myself. The likelihood is that I’m running alone so I can recharge my batteries.

Thanks for reading, Keith.

MyNeedToLive Guest Blogger

Name: KeithRuns

Website: keithruns.com

Bio: About to turn thirty I decided to change my lifestyle. I stopped smoking, cut back on alcohol, and started exercising. A few years later and 40lbs lighter, I installed a couch-to-5k app on my phone and headed out for my first attempt at running. It took me several months before I finally managed to run 5k though, slow and steady progress was what helped me to get there.