From bringing to you the theory of relativity to the famous Harry Potter series, introverts have done a lot of good, and why not? Not being surrounded by people can sometimes be quite refreshing and can allow you to focus more on what you truly love to do. If you’re an introvert that finds social situations tiring and off-putting, there are ways that you can have a good social life as an introvert.
5 Ways to Have a Good Social Life as an Introvert
#1 Get Out Once a Week
The simplest and most practical way to get started onto building a social circle is to get out atleast once every week and put yourself out there. Even if it does feel forced for a while, do it. When you do get out though, make sure you set realistic expectations- don’t expect to make a friend that has exactly your thoughts and ideas on day 1 itself. You’ll come across different types of people, and while some may not be the right fit for you, some others will.
If you already have friends, make it a point to meet them occasionally just to catch up and see what they’re up to. Nurture those friendships.
I’m very picky with whom I give my energy to. I prefer to reserve my time, intensity, and spirit exclusively to those who reflect sincerity.
Dau Voire
#2 Be Real
If you’re out meeting a group of new people, remind yourself to be real and true to yourself. Don’t pretend to be what you aren’t just to fit in the crowd. Be yourself and the right people will find you. Don’t pretend to be an extrovert and over friendly- it’ll only wear you out faster than you can imagine.
Though introverts are drained by interaction, we can take immense pleasure in watching the scene around us.
– Laurie Helgoe
# 3 Join a Group
Another great way to get started and have a good social life is to be a part of a group that revolves around something you’re interested in. For instance, if you love reading, you could get enrolled at a nearby library or book swap. If you’re into yoga, you could consider joining a yoga class- you get the drill. That way, you’ll have a common ground between you and the people you’ll be meeting.
For introverts, who have limited energy for interaction, we need to be more thoughtful and deliberate about whom we meet—which, happily, is what we do best.
Laurie Helgoe
#4 Use Open Ended Questions
Once you’re in the right social setting, it is time to open up and make conversation. If you’re having trouble with that, you can ask open ended questions- something that could get the person you’re talking to go on without you having to drop in for comments. For instance, instead of asking someone where they went to college, ask them what they liked about their college.
#5 Go Where You’re Comfortable
Introverts don’t see life as one big cocktail party. We’re content with just a few meaningful relationships.
Jenn Granneman
Last, but definitely not the least, go where you’re actually comfortable. Be ready to step outside your comfort zone and make new connections, but spend more time and be loyal to only those that you actually like being around. Don’t force yourself to be a part of a certain circle just because you think they’re the only ones. Choose quality over quantity. Always.
As an introvert, I am much more content in being home and this lockdown has been okay for me. Probably more in comfort zone and not feeling guilty or compelled to be around others. I belong to a club and haven’t seen them in over a year. Not all that crazy about going back. Hubby I think is mentally ready for interactions with them, but I am holding out, probably part from the unknown, even though I have the shots. Are we really safe? Not sure and it isn’t worth it to me to find out. Besides to meet with the group it means up at 5:10 AM to be at the meeting on time. Like sleeping and not ready to meet the world. Grocery shopping and medical appointments are enough interaction for me. I know at sometime I will have to bite the bullet and get back out there. Usually I reluctantly go to a function and then find out I had a good time. I enjoy being at home with my cats in my own world without the stresses of life. And now with what has happened it no longer seems like fun to go wandering around the stores as once I had enjoyed. Wearing a mask reminds me of lost freedoms.
Mary Stephenson recently posted..Lucy Gets Spayed
Great advice! I’m an introvert with social anxiety so it’s hard for me to get out and meet people. I like the idea of joining a group, like a book club maybe.
As an introvert, I know how difficult it can be to put yourself out there! But finding like minded groups may be the solution. This will be something that I will try to do once this darn pandemic is under control!
Modern Gypsy recently posted..5 tips to cope with crisis fatigue
very practical and useful tips to those who deal with social anxiety issues. I have some near and dear ones who struggle with these issues. will share your blog post with them. Kudos for posting blogs on very real matters.
I’m glad you found these useful and thank you for sharing!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..7 Ways To Attract More Readers To Your Blog
These are all excellent tips, but #3 just feels painful… no, it’s a good idea, too, but… do I have to?
Corinne, you might enjoy these two: https://theintrovertsisters.com/ (my friends Sharon and Lisa). Speaking of them, what happened to your podcasting adventures? Have you stopped, or moved and I missed a memo?
This is great advice, Corinne! As an introvert myself, I can appreciate them. #2 especially stands out to me: “If you’re out meeting a group of new people, remind yourself to be real and true to yourself.” I have to remind myself that it’s okay to totally be who I am, wherever I go and whoever I’m around.
Excellent tips, Corinne. Finding like-minded people is the key, isn’t it?
Vinitha recently posted..How Was Your Week? #SoulfulSunday
Great advice all around. Once a week might be too much for this introvert though. I’d put it at once or twice a month. That allows ample recovery time from socializing. Needless to say, this is one thing I enjoy about the lockdown and social distancing. There’s no pressure to go out and meet people.