Let Go

Dear Intorvert,

Let go.

Of the guilt of letting a message linger while you read a book, took a walk, or watered your plants, or did absolutely nothing at all. Of the guilt for letting the call go to voicemail.

Let go of guilt for saying no to brunch. For leaving the party early. For sending an email to the person who loves to gab on the phone. For passing on the big family reunion because you connect better one-on-one. For having one friend instead of twenty. For being the quiet one at the table or meeting because you were thinking instead of talking. For not visiting. Stopping by. Showing up.

You’re not failing at connection when you protect your own energy. You’re choosing honesty over performance, clarity over obligation. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do for the people you love is to show up only when you can show up fully—and in the way you can show up fully. Not half-there, not performing, not stretched thin, not wishing you were somewhere else.

And the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to stop apologizing for that.