I spent my entire 20's as an introvert trying to fit into an extroverts’ world.  I can’t tell you the number of times I pretended to enjoy an outing with friends/coworkers/partners at the clubs/bars/sports/party functions, and every single time, I would think to myself: “This is an absolute waste of time. I am gaining no joy nor am I any wiser from these events.”

To be clear, I don’t think I’m “above” or “too good” for these activities.  If you are an extrovert who needs these activities to feed your soul, then you are no less valid than an introvert who finds them draining.

But I will tell you this: in order to gain inner wisdoms, you must have a quiet mind.  It was only after dozens of hours in the absolute stillness of my garden that I gained the wisdoms and insights that I’m sharing with you.  So party if you must, but make sure you carve out at least an hour a day of uninterrupted silence for yourself, free of external distractions (and yes, that includes your friends and family).  You will never know yourself if you never make time for yourself.  And no, ”brunch with the girls” does not count as time for yourself.