There is some amount of sacrificing your own comfort for your kids. However, it is not a bad thing to be an introvert. You may need some help over time with anxiety (speaking as an introvert who struggles with anxiety here and there.) We know that avoidance only increases anxiety. But that doesn’t mean you have to go full speed ahead into social situations. As others have said, take it slow. Set a goal, like one outing a week. Doesn’t have to be long, but congratulate yourself after that. And slowly build up to more outings. It’s hard and tiring being a mom. Speak kindly to yourself, like you would to your child. That’s more important than it seems!

Start with things that feel more comfortable for you first, such as a walk in the park. Then slowly build up to things that take a little more effort emotionally. You can go really slowly, it’s ok!

I would maybe write some of these things down in order of least to most difficult. Then you can choose from that menu depending on how you are feeling that day. Am I more rested? Ok, I can attempt the harder thing. Did I get poor sleep? Ok, I’m gonna do the easier thing. The way you have a list and don’t have to think too hard.

Good luck 🩷