Socialising V early nights

It's a minor thing but was wondering what other people thought.

I'll start by saying I've never been outgoing, always had lower socialisation needs, quite introverted.

I now work an early shift on weekends and so go early to bed Sat night. I don't get a whole load of social invitations but when I do they tend to be Sat night. Last Christmas I went to one party on Sat night but left at 9.30 and decided there wasn't really much point in going at all as parties don't really get started til then.

The only other option would be to stay up late and have less sleep but I know I would feel terrible next day (& my job is physical so requires energy).

Some people (most) are fine about it but one friend said it sounded like I was making excuses.

Tbh it is not a great hardship for me with having lower social needs and I am happiest at home with my family it's true. But I'm not fully making excuses either - I do need my sleep before an early shift. I'd be happy to socialise mid week but of course no parties/night outs are then because most people work then (not me!)

Am I being selfish? My friend indicated this was the case.

Taking care of yourself is not selfish. You do not need an excuse to stay home.

Thanks, yes it feels like self care to me. I guess it must be frustrating to other people who invite me out on weekends but I do have to look after myself first rather than feeling pressured.

Anyone who pressures you to do something does not have your best interest at heart

I don't stay up late if I have to work next day. I don't care if people are offended. I don't stay up late even if I don't work next day. No you aren't selfish at all.

I wonder if the friend who thinks it's selfish to sleep instead of socializing would be willing to meet you for breakfast before your Sunday shift??

Hvert I like that suggestion . I may well say just that, thanks!

That is a great suggestion, and no, it's not selfish at all and your reasons are perfectly valid.

Your friend I believe just wants your company, which is a nice thing, and perhaps is being a bit selfish themselves.

You have to do what is best and right for YOU. (((Hugs)))

I don't see it as selfish.. you're just taking your needs into consideration.

I second the this ! See if people are willing to get up early for you !

A friend should understand. The one exception is a very special ocassion such as a wedding. Take time for a power nap (set an alarm so you sleep less than 30 minutes)? Red bull?

I wake up between 1 AM and 5 AM. When I walk my dog at 3 AM, etc, I feel like I am the only person in my whole neighborhood that is awake. I have been doing this since a very young age. I just look at it as quiet time with no obligations!

I agree with the other posters. Taking care of yourself is not selfish. You don't need a reason for not attending an event on Saturday but you have one nonetheless. You work an early shift and need to get your rest. Sending big hugs.

Never sacrifice your well being for socializing. Doing what you need to for your own mental and physical health is not selfish.

what it selfish is a so called friend expecting you to sacrifice your well being so that you can socialize on their timeline.

I agree, you're not selfish.

Although I have admittedly sacrificed sleep on occasion when I deem the person or situation worthy. But that's just me.