Being an introvert is one of the most frustrating yet glorious characteristics one could possess. Introverted people have beautiful minds and blossoming souls, but we oftentimes struggle with expressing ourselves. We're usually viewed as loners, boring, and flighty, however, we truly have so much to offer. Familiarizing yourself with an introvert takes a little bit of TLC, but once you get there, you'll realize that our soft-spoken, down-to-earth, and sensitive selves make great companions. Here are some things to keep in mind when interacting with your introverted friend:
1. We are not snobby.
Despite our potential RBF and standoffish demeanor, we're actually just really shy. While extroverts are outgoing and naturally free-spirited, introverts are a lot more reserved. We prefer to stay quiet and keep to ourselves; we're a lot more comfortable not being in the lime light. Typically, we're so engrossed in our own thoughts and in what others have to say that we may come across as rude or socially awkward.
2. We want you to invite us out and include us in your plans.
Even when we're unavailable. It's not like an introvert to initiate plans; don't take it personally. We don't like going out on a limb to organize an outing or get-together because, in some way, that's a form of commitment to other people and it makes us anxious. We love to know that we're thought of enough for someone to invite us out, though. Though we prefer to be homebodies, we're human, too. We thrive on genuine interactions.
3. We value our personal space and downtime.
So if you do try to make plans with us, fully aware that we aren't busy, and we still turn you down, it's nothing against you. Social interactions take a lot of introverts and we cherish quality alone time to recharge our batteries. We need time to just relax and spend time with ourselves before mustering up the courage to engage with others.
4. We can be incredibly sensitive.
And we are hyperaware of our surroundings, often causing us to overthink situations that really may not amount to anything. We are constantly analyzing your text tone and body language to make sure that everything is OK and everyone is content. We are very in-tune with our emotions and our gut and can sense when even the slightest thing is off.
5. Stepping out of our comfort zone is oftentimes nerve-racking.
This could relate to anything from going to parties, to trying new foods, to staying at someone else's house, and just experiencing newness in general. Introverts are perfectly content with their routine. Trying new things may be exhilarating to extroverts while the thought of change makes introverts want to vomit.
6. We are awkward when accepting compliments.
Maybe we're too humble, but this goes back to not wanting to be the center of attention. Don't get me wrong, we appreciate when people say nice things to us, but we often focus more on what we can improve about ourselves rather than our accomplishments. (Even if you think we're having a nice hair day, we can point out that one strand that won't cooperate and it will eat at us).
7. We avoid conflict.
Because negative energy makes us unbearably uncomfortable. There's nothing worse than feeling unbalanced in any aspect of our lives. We typically avoid debates, arguments, voicing our opinions, and getting on anyone's bad side. If we find ourselves in the midst of drama, we tend to isolate ourselves until we feel that we're prepared to deal with the turmoil and move forward.
8. Small talk is painful.
Genuine conversation is hard to come by these days, so if we sense that our time will be wasted, we dodge small talk at all costs. Awkward silences make us squirm and vocal fillers drain our energy. What's the point in carrying out pointless conversation if it isn't going to challenge our brain or feed our soul?
9. We do not mean to blow you off.
Sometimes, we don't have an explanation for being flighty; it's in our nature. Introverts can be obnoxiously avoidant and awkward, but we don't mean any harm. It's easier for us to come out of our shell some days rather than others. Just understand that solitude is our version of a security blanket.
10. Leadership positions make us uncomfortable.
We hate being in charge and loathe telling other people what to do. We'd much rather follow the pack or lead ourselves separately. And let's not even discuss the pain of having to speak in front of a large group of people; we can feel their eyes looking right through us.
11. Large groups are typically overwhelming.
It doesn't matter where we are or for what reason- if there's a mass amount of people in a small space, we're almost guaranteed to freak out. Not all introverts react the same way, though. Some get upset, anxious, nervous, stressed, or antsy. Large groups means many sets of eyes, a lot of judgement, and, depending on the situation, unwarranted attention. No thank you.
12. We are great listeners.
Introverts and extroverts make great friends because, like yin and yang, they complement one another. Introverts would much rather let you unload your whole life story and a novel of problems before opening up to you about their own. We're glad to reciprocate conversation, but we do a much better job at taking in what you have to say and making sense of it or comparing your thoughts to our own. So chat away, Little Miss Chatterbox.
Introverts may come across as quirky, socially awkward, and highly emotional individuals. I'm not saying that every introvert behaves this way, but from an outsider's perspective, these characteristics are so commonly overlooked. Not fully understanding how our minds work can be truly damaging to friendships and relationships. Always remember to be open minded with everyone you meet; we're all wired a little differently.
