When the pandemic first hit, I found myself feeling like a stranger in my own skin. As someone who typically identifies as an ambivert, I quickly slipped into full-on introvert mode. Phone calls became a daunting task; I struggled to respond to my mom’s simple check-in texts. Friends suggested Zoom hangouts, but mustering the energy to join felt overwhelming. I often chose to skip out entirely, believing I had nothing to contribute and needing to conserve my energy for work, homeschooling, and keeping the house in order.
However, everything shifted a few weeks ago when some friends surprised me with a Zoom gathering. I was comfortably dressed in sweatpants, glass of wine in hand, and my hair had finally seen some TLC. I thought, why not? As we chatted and laughed, I realized just how long it had been since I’d truly enjoyed myself. I had transitioned from regularly connecting with friends to nearly complete isolation, and this realization was a turning point for me.
Now, I find my social calendar busier than it was before the pandemic. It makes sense; cozy clothes and the comfort of home make it so much easier to host a girls’ night. There’s no need to worry about finding a table at a crowded restaurant or sticking to a budget. We can simply enjoy each other’s company for as long as we want. Game nights on platforms like Hangouts mean no one has to clean up afterward. Plus, the best part? If I feel like logging off, I can do so without the guilt of travel time. Home is the perfect venue for socializing, without the hassle of Uber rides or being the designated driver.
Many of us are craving connection more than ever, as we’ve lost those small interactions that previously brought us joy, like chatting with a neighbor or getting a haircut. I didn’t realize how much I relied on those moments for my mental well-being until they vanished. Every Friday night, I make it a point to join a virtual happy hour, regardless of how drained I feel, because accessing that connection is simple — just open my computer. Tuesday nights are reserved for Zoom chats with friends, where we might cook together or just catch up over a glass of wine.
I’ve been talking on the phone more than I have in years. I genuinely want to hear how my friends and family are doing. Texting daily with several friends has become a new norm, something we rarely did before. These conversations provide a sense of comfort as we share our similar experiences during this challenging time.
With activities that usually occupy our time on hold, we now have the freedom to reconnect with those who matter most. Physical isolation is tough, but the emotional toll of social isolation is often even greater. As we navigate these times, it’s become clear that even introverts need connection.
I look forward to the day when I can enjoy drinks and appetizers with friends again, and take my kids out for pizza. Until then, I’m cherishing the deeper connections I’ve made during this time. The silver lining of this difficult situation has been the ease of connecting with loved ones. Whether it’s through a quick FaceTime call or a nostalgic phone conversation, I’ve realized how much I value these relationships.
I plan to continue prioritizing these virtual meet-ups even as we transition back to “normal.” This pandemic has illuminated the importance of nurturing the people in my life, and I don’t want to lose that insight. My only regret is not taking advantage of these connections sooner.
For more insights, check out our other blog post at Home Insemination Kit. If you’re exploring family-building options, Resolve.org is an excellent resource, and for products, Make a Mom is a trusted authority.
Summary
The pandemic brought about unexpected changes in my social life, leading me to connect more deeply with friends and family than ever before. While physical isolation has been challenging, it’s also highlighted the importance of maintaining relationships through virtual means. I’ve learned to value these connections, and I hope to carry this newfound appreciation into the future.