Introverts are probably some of the most misunderstood people of all time. Their whole lives consist of people telling them to get out more or not be so quiet, and it's pretty exhausting. While each introvert has different experiences, there are certain things a lot of your introvert friends want you to know.
Not all of us are shy
"Shyness" is being quiet or reserved out of fear of judgment. Introversion is a part of your personality, and it means that your brain doesn't need the same stimulation as someone who's extroverted. While it's true that shyness can absolutely come with introversion, some of the best public speakers and leaders are introverted, and some of the shyest people are really extroverts.
We don't hate people
Many people accuse introverts of being antisocial and hermit-like, but in reality it's not like that at all. It's true that a lot of introverts don't like being in large groups or speaking in front of a lot of people, and we enjoy having time to ourselves. However, we love making good friends and having fun just as much as everyone else. We don't hate people, we just don't hate being alone.
We actually enjoy good conversations
Having a meaningful conversation with someone we care about is actually one of the best things that can happen to an introvert (or anyone, really). We have a lot to say, even though we are not always inclined to say it out loud. Finding people who want to get to know us and who will let us share our ideas with them is something we can seriously be grateful for.
We love to listen and observe
In fact, we often prefer either of them to speaking (in big group settings, that is). It's a little hard to explain, but it's how we learn. We absorb everything that's being said or done and process it internally. Outwardly, this looks like we're bored or not paying attention (and sometimes that can happen), but most of the time we're just thinking deeply about whatever's going on.
The "social battery" is a very real thing
After being around a lot of people for a long time, a lot of introverts will suddenly become exhausted and need to "recharge." This means we need some time to ourselves to get some of our energy back before we go out again. Certain things also drain our "battery" more than others. For example, going to a party and meeting new people is much more tiring than spending a whole day with your close friends.
We really cherish the friends we have
A really common thing among introverts is not being close to very many people. We're picky about who we open up to, and because of that we often don't feel like we have a lot of people to rely on. This means that our close friends are our favorite people, because they've gotten to know us and accept us for who we are.
We get lonely too
Yes, we like to be alone, but this doesn't mean we never want to be with people. Humans need social interaction to survive, and some people thrive on that interaction. Introverts don't. However, loneliness is still a major issue, because everyone wants to feel loved and accepted.
There's nothing wrong with us
A lot of people seem to think that being quiet is abnormal and is something that needs to be fixed. This couldn't be more wrong. The world needs a balance of quiet and talkative people, and being introverted does not in any way stop you from contributing to society. We're quiet because it's who we are, not because something's off. Introversion isn't something that can be "cured," because it's not an actual problem in the first place.
To all the introverts out there, don't try to change just because people tell you that you should. Your introversion is not the issue, so don't be afraid to keep being you.
