As an introvert, sometimes I feel like I’m a fish swimming in the wrong pond. Misunderstood and stereotyped. Getting others to understand what it’s like as an introvert in everyday life isn’t easy but hopefully these series of articles will help…and give you a chuckle at the same time. This is the third in the series of five articles in understanding introverts. The extroverts in your life still may not get it, but at least you will know you are not alone in this pond!
Traveling! Exciting places, learning about new cultures, traditions, food! Then, of course, there is the flip side for introverts: crowded airports, or roads, hotels, restaurants…ahhhh!!!! Introverts don’t hate traveling, I for one have had a wonderful time visiting other states and even other countries. However, the experiences definitely make me grateful for home.
- Travel time….been through my suitcase for the 146th time this morning. Think I have everything. Gotta go, going to be late! Oh I hope the airport check-in isn’t packed.
- Oh no! Another flight was cancelled and now the check-in is wrapped around the airport! UGH! Why did I pack a suitcase? I should’ve packed light. Carry on only!
- Security line is worse than the check-in! I am going to miss my flight. I just know I am!
- Down to my underwear and the machine alarm is still going off. What the actual…?!
- As I’m running to my gate I’m wondering if I’ll make it before passing out due to lack of oxygen.
- Whew! Made it. Now to find my seat…oh, lovely. Sitting in between a little old lady hacking up a lung and a guy that looks like a Sumo wrestler.
- 3 hour flight. Sitting with my left side completely covered by Mr. Sumo, trying to read my book that took me 20 mins to get out of my backpack with one arm and my feet, and nodding to the incessant chatter of the pleasant coughing machine beside me.
- Finally! We have landed. The left side of my body is numb, and the right side is covered with germs and my right ear is ringing. Open the door for all that’s holy!
- Sumo was stuck in his chair and so we were the last row off the plane. I am now walking like a zombie from The Walking Dead as I try desperately to get my left leg to receive blood flow.
- I have seen my bag go around three times now but getting to it is like trying to get through a group of girls at an 80’s hairband concert.
- Rental car. Right. No left. No….okay I’m lost.
- Rental car…check! Suitcase…check! GPS ready to guide me to my hotel…check! Horrible traffic…triple check!
- Checked in to hotel after waiting in line for 45 minutes behind a woman and her fifty screaming kids. I will not be enjoying the pool at this hotel.
- In my room, with air conditioner on, meditation music playing, cup of coffee, and book in hand. Let the vacation begin!
I hope this made you giggle. Traveling can be rough, but it really is worth it. We may need a week to recover from our vacations but they are so worth it. Exploring other places can be so fulfilling. Don’t be afraid to set out! Absorb the beauty, history, culture and, yes, even the people! You will meet some of the greatest people if you try. And locals will give you tips on places to eat that are lesser know to tourists, places to visit that are off the beaten path and stories about the area you might not hear. Most of all, enjoy and relax!
