S-T-R-E-T-C-H
I’m not a big fan of labeling myself because I find it limiting. For example, the minute you affix “raspberry salesman” to yourself, you may spend the rest of your life attempting to outgrow the label and all the connotations it represents. I have found a label for me that fits. It’s a bit of a dichotomy but it seems apt.
I am a “Social Hermit.”
My definition for that is that I enjoy and can play well with others in a social setting but prefer the solace of home. That was a sticky wicket when I traveled as much as I did for business in the past. I was in social settings every day and my balance was out of whack. I only travel occasionally now and get to enjoy the surroundings of my home and family more. Again, that’s my preference.
Others thrive on social contact and have a hard time staying home. I recognize that and respect their preference.
My sense is that the socialite and hermit within us have to find a working balance in order to bring more fullness to our life situation. A hermit can stagnate and a socialite can burn themselves out. The best option seems to be to find an “ecstatic psychic” – a happy medium.
You probably found yourself leaning to one side or the other when evaluating your preference. That’s quite natural. You may have already found the perfect percentages of each for yourself and that’s to be applauded.
If on the other hand, you notice that your preference is causing you more harm than good, it may be time to call a meeting between your socialite and hermit and work out a schedule each can live with. It’s called stretching yourself and it’s more beneficial than Yoga.
I read a quote from St. Augustine that opened my eyes to my socialite. He wrote:
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”
It reminded me of how fortunate I’ve been to visit so many of the places I have, and to be enriched by the people I have met.
Others need to find their hermit – the part of them that grounds them to home base. If you are uncomfortable at home, you live in a house. You could also benefit by stretching.
I don’t think there is a percentage that works the same for everyone, but everyone has an optimum percentage. If you find yourself torn between your socialite and hermit, or leaning too far to one side or the other, it’s time to rebalance your personal portfolio and find the joys both parts of you can bring.
S-T-R-E-T-C-H
All the best,
John
http://cdbaby.com/cd/johnmorgan
http://www.cafepress.com/grasshoppernote/3580301
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