7 Tips For Introverts Who Want To Thrive And Succeed
I don’t know about you but I love being an introvert.
If you’re an introvert and you’re interested in making the best out of your life then read on. This post is for you.
Before diving in, let’s make it clear who an introvert is. Introversion is a personality trait in which a person recharges by spending time alone. The level of introversion various among different people. It can also change as we age or change.
Being an introvert is not easy. It is especially hard around many extroverts who don’t understand your nature. They might feel uncomfortable if they think that you’re rejecting them. But in reality, introverts need their alone time to recharge. Introverts can’t stay social for a long time.
Being an introvert myself, here are my top tips on how to succeed and thrive.
1. Schedule ‘me’ time
You must schedule alone time with yourself. This is the time when you’ll be able to recharge your batteries and go through the day full of energy.
While extroverts spend their leisure time socializing, you prefer alone time for leisure. So, don’t feel obliged to do what others are doing. Spend your leisure time your own way.
Alone time can come in different forms such as:
b) Listening to music/podcast/audiobook
c) Working out
d) Meditating
e) Journaling
f) Writing
g) Reading
h) Cooking
i) Eating
k) Doing a hobby
l) Taking a shower
m) Cleaning / Organizing / Planning
n) Browsing the internet / Watching TV
o) Traveling
You can do many of these activities with other people as well like walking, cooking, eating, watching TV, traveling, etc. But according to your energy levels, you can choose to do the activities alone for recharging.
2. Socialize on purpose
As introverts crave out alone time, it can be easy for them to skip the social part altogether. It’s a good idea to take out some time to socialize so that you form relationships and develop your social skills.
Don’t be afraid to make small talks. Even though you don’t like small talks, you can use it to practice your emotional intelligence and people skills. Just smile, say hello, ask about the other person, be interested, listen and open up.
Social connection is necessary for improved quality of life. Good relationships and being part of a community are an important part of life design. Don’t skip it.
3. Know your energy
If you don’t want to burn yourself out, then you need to know your energy limits. Avoid committing to events that you don’t want to go to. Limit your time at social gatherings.
If you’re out of your energy reserves in a social setting, then it’s best to take a break by going to the washroom or any other quiet place to recharge for a few minutes. If you don’t do it, you will feel drained and people will feel the low energy around you.
4. Have friends who understand you
Let your friends know your nature. They will understand and respect your privacy without hard feelings. If you don’t communicate this, they might think that you’re being a jerk by ignoring them.
If you can, make friends with some introverted people so that you can understand each other. But it is also good to have extroverted friends. It will add variety to your social circle and add contrast to your personality.
5. Choose a career that suits you
You like to work in a distraction-free, isolated environment. You don’t like to communicate too often while working. So, instead of choosing jobs that require constant interaction with a lot of people, choose jobs that charge you up.
If you let your coworkers know about your preferences, they will understand your style of working and they won’t make assumptions. Misunderstandings between coworkers can lead to bad results so make sure to be open about your personality and respect each other’s preference.
6. Escape the personality trap
Being an introvert is a personality trait. While it is true that the personality trait is part of who we are, it does not mean that we can’t take characteristics from other personality traits.
You can anytime choose to improve your social skills and be a selective introvert. Yes, it will take some time and practice but if you want, you can learn the skills that extroverts can easily do.
So stop labeling yourself and become a slave to your personality. Choose what you want to work on and start working on it. Your personality will adapt.
7. Embrace your nature
Congratulations! You’re an introvert. You can enjoy being alone, you can reflect on your thoughts well, you don’t need too much dopamine to feel good.
Be thankful for your personality and embrace who you are. Enjoy what you truly like doing without the fear of missing out.
Be awesome. Be you.