1. “I canceled that event not because I didn’t want to go, but because I felt so drained of energy.”

2. “Just because I enjoy time alone, doesn’t mean I’m lonely.”

3. “No, I’m not depressed or sad, I truly just don’t want to participate in small talk with you.”

4. “I’m sorry for all the times I flaked on you. It doesn’t mean I love you any less.”

5. “Me saying no to go to an event isn’t me not wanting to spend time with you.”

6. “Just because I don’t enjoy most parties, doesn’t mean I don’t know how to have fun.”

7. “When I’m forced to talk or go to an event that I feel uncomfortable in, I’ll probably be awkward and quiet. This doesn’t mean I have zero social queues.”

8. “I am a fun person, despite what you may think. I know how to have a good time.”

9. “My version of fun may not be your version or idea of fun. And that’s ok.”

10. “If you’re truly my friend, you’ll respect my need for space.”

11. “For the millionth time, I’m not stuck up.”

12. “Please stop calling me shy or weird. Everyone communicates in their own way and on their own terms.”

13. “When you make fun of me spending time alone, it makes me feel like you don’t understand me or respect me at all.”

14. “There’s a difference between being lonely and being alone.”

15. “If I’m feeling lonely, I will tell you. Don’t just assume things you know nothing about.”

16. “I need friendships that stimulate me and make me a better person.”

17. “If I’m 100% comfortable with you, your energy usually won’t ever drain me.”

18. “Don’t make me feel guilty for leaving a party early. It already takes strength for me to do that on my own with everyone staring at me.”

19. “Small talk is bullshit.”

20. “I’m constantly worried and paranoid of people thinking I’m a terrible person for needing to withdraw from certain social situations. Sometimes, I need you to tell me that it’s ok to cancel and it’s ok to spend time on my own.”