SOCIAL LIFE SOCIAL LIFE · THE INTROVERT ESCAPE HATCH

SHOULD I CANCEL MY PLANS?

The appointment was made weeks ago by an optimistic extrovert who no longer inhabits your body. Should you pull the emergency cord?

COMMON SCENARIOS:
Genuinely exhausted Don't want to go Social anxiety spike Forgot until 1 hour ago Simply lazy in sweatpants Weather is atrocious

BEFORE YOU DO SOMETHING STUPID

RULE #1

THE GOLDEN COURTESY OF EARLY FLAKING.

Canceling five hours ahead is a polite inconvenience. Canceling 15 minutes before is a declaration of social war. Decide quickly.

RULE #2

DISTINGUISH ANXIETY FROM EXHAUSTION.

If you are tired, rest. If you are just feeling a little shy or anxious beforehand, ninety percent of the time you feel much better ten minutes after arriving.

FREQUENTLY AVOIDED QUESTIONS

Should I make up an elaborate excuse?

No! Elaborate excuses crumble under cross-examination. "I am completely wiped out and need an early night" is respectable and honest.

What if it is a 1-on-1 meeting?

1-on-1 cancellations hurt more because the other person reserved their evening. Offer a concrete replacement date immediately.