Journeys With Jani

For the last couple of years, I truly thought I had crossed over to the dark side. That I had suddenly become an introvert. I mean, I found myself turning down plans. Preferring a cozy night in with my dogs and a good book over going out. Actually enjoying the silence. Who even was I?

But then it hit me, clear as day:

I’m not an introvert. I just love being at peace.

And I’m still wildly extroverted around the people who bring me that peace.

Give me a room full of folks who feel like sunshine on a hard day, and suddenly I’m the same loud, laughing, storytelling, joke-cracking, dance-floor-dominating me. But stick me in a crowd full of chaos, small talk, or fake energy? I’ll be clinging to the nearest exit faster than you can say “nope.”

See, I used to think solitude meant something was wrong with me. That needing alone time meant I had changed. But peace? Peace isn’t loneliness. It’s a soul exhale. It’s choosing quality over quantity. It’s recognizing who and what drains you—and who and what fills your cup until it’s overflowing.

I’ve learned to stop labeling myself. I’m not introvert or extrovert. I’m just someone who has finally learned how sacred peace is—and how damn good it feels to protect it.

So if you see me out, and I’m quiet, don’t assume I’ve changed.

And if you see me lighting up like a firework around certain people, know this:

Those are my people.

That is my peace.

And I’m still very much me.

XOXO, Jani