If you’re a bit of a recluse (i.e., somewhat antisocial), you understand the suffering that comes with attending a party, get-together, or networking event. Without a doubt, you’d rather prefer to remain at home, immersed in a good book, and pensive.
Like it or not, these things will still happen. Therefore, learning social skills can be beneficial if you’re an introvert.
Of course, it’s far simpler to say than to do. Being social can seem like an impossible chore if you are an introvert. Whereas most individuals appear to get energy from gatherings and excursions, you simply appear to be able to endure them (at best). You might even experience complete exhaustion afterwards as if you had just gone through a terrible ordeal (instead of something lighthearted and fun). This is how introversion functions.
An introvert generally:
- feels comfortable being on their own
- is perceived as thoughtful or reserved
- prefers to know a few people well
Bring on the evenings spent by yourself with a book or perhaps a coffee date with a close friend.
How to Be More Social as an Introvert
Even though it’s completely OK to prefer your own company, there will be times when you must leave for a wedding or attend the corporate holiday party. In that situation, you shouldn’t worry because there are things you can do to be more social as an introvert. These are some of those ideas.
1. Find an exciting cause to leave the house.
It’s like asking a fish to run a marathon to ask an introvert to go out just to socialize. What would make us do that? However, it can be more enjoyable if you have a strong motivation to interact with others.
Consider the activities you find enjoyable. Try activities like board games, pool, yoga, or crafting that have meets. or any of your favorite sports that have regular weekly matches. Or you could work as a volunteer for a food bank or an environmental organization.
Do something you enjoy that will help you make new acquaintances and provide you with easy conversation starters. When you have a purpose for being there, socializing becomes less painful.
2. Prepare a few small-talk questions.
Preparedness is the ultimate confidence builder.
Vince Lombardi
So you dislike small conversation, I guess. I also resented small conversation. Though it seems unnecessary and irksome, it isn’t really. It’s the icebreaker everyone needs to get to know one another before we get into the deeper concerns like “Does a tree fall in a forest and make a sound?”
Prepare a few introductory questions to ask when you first meet someone to learn more about them. Items like:
- What are you charged to do?
- What aspects of your employment do you like?
- What coursework do you have?
- Why did you decide to pursue this particular topic?
What about asking them, “What do you do for fun,” if they don’t like their job or school? You’ll eventually begin to break down the wall that keeps you in the “small talk zone” when you show others that you are interested in them by wondering about them.
