These days I love being an introvert - I see so much value in introvert tendencies as a person and as a parent - but I definitely haven’t always felt like this. In the past it has contributed to a lot of anxiety and even burnout.

I think there is still a stigma associated with introvert tendencies - it is getting better and more people are comfortable saying they are an introvert - but I think there is still a long way to go before our needs as introverts are seen as valid and as acceptable as extrovert tendencies.

An introvert can still be seen as reserved, shy, not a 'people person' - all quite negative connotations. I have often felt like an outsider, socially anxious and awkward - like there is something wrong with me because I don’t fit into this world designed for extroverts.

I think most introverts have had to suppress their instinctive needs in order to operate day to day.

Becoming a parent really highlighted my introvert nature. The combination of sensory overload and social expectations flooded my brain. After a lifetime of trying to fit in I found it very difficult to set boundaries or communicate my needs.

So I had to figure out how to parent well as an introvert, how to play to my strengths so that I didn’t get overwhelmed. I started to approach parenting a bit differently in a way that felt more authentic. I tapped into what mattered most to me.

This included introducing routines and rhythms to family life, finding fun activities that didn’t drain my batteries, slowing down as much as possible, getting really clear on my yes’es and my no’s and better at communicating my needs and my boundaries.

It took a lot of trial and error but I slowly started to find ways to balance my needs as an introvert with the realities of parenthood.

So this is why I specialise in supporting other parents who are introverts - I get it, I understand the challenges and I also want to celebrate the wonderful benefits of parenting as an introvert.