I label myself a Circumstantial Introvert. I can be outgoing, I have learned to fake it, I understand the rules, but I simply dont want to do it. I think it is the drama and pretentiousness I want to avoid.

I have determined my dislike for social outings is because they are work. It requires effort for me to engage with most people.

Honestly, it means hours of pretending I want to hear gossip or about their job, as most people don’t have a grasp on current events. I would be happier discussing deeper or weird topics, but that is not permitted in social settings.

I mean, if going to parties meant we were going to debate the existence of Bigfoot or whether society has a financial obligation to support artists, I would go to every event and be thrilled to do so. But most people discuss themselves, their family or events, they cannot be bothered with concepts.

Let’s face it. People expect us to constantly accommodate these social norms even though they realize we hate it. We don’t go because it is boring and difficult. It is not fun for us, but it is for them. They want socializing on their terms, not ours.