Being a loner or an introvert is often mistaken with being anti-social. While the two – loners and introverts – are connected, they're also quite different.
For instance, being an introvert doesn't mean you don't like people, you just prefer to have time off from them in order to recharge. Because whether you realize it or not, people can drain you and leave you depleted.
When I first moved to Lebanon, I noticed that many people here constantly feel the need to be surrounded by others and are image and social oriented people. Now that's not a bad thing, because everyone is different, but it can go overboard when people start judging you for not dressing a certain way or not talking to people or even not having a crazy amount of friends.
People are who they are. If you're a loner or introvert, you've probably heard these 6 things before...
1. "You're always alone... Therefore, you must be a lonely person."
Hate to break it to you but I don't feel the need to constantly be around people. I'm comfortable enough to be in my own presence. It's the most therapeutic thing you can ever do to yourself.
2. "You don't know how to deal with people."
I think we all agree on how the majority of the Lebanese don't understand personal space. How can I deal with you if you don't stop touching me, giving me advice on what to do or interfering in my life?!
3. "You're too weird around people."
You're normal! That's worse!
4. "You always sit alone."
5. "Do you even have friends? I never see you with anyone."
Imagine how much more judgmental you will be if I actually opened up to you.
6. "You need to be more sociable and likable."
