Hello, introvert here!
Do you feel like your energy is drained every time you hang out with friends? It’s probably because it is. Even though we might not realize it, socializing drains our introverted selves in more ways than we think.
Socializing is draining because it’s directly against the natural instincts of an introvert. It’s almost as if they are two opposing forces that cannot co-exist at the same time.
Given time and space, an introvert will naturally un-rush themselves and retreat back into their shell – away from the irritating noise and unnecessary stimulation of a large group of people.
Introverts tend to get their energy from being alone or in small groups, listening to music or reading quietly, staying home instead of going out, and keeping things simple by reducing sights and sounds.
Why is socializing draining for an introvert?
Introverts, as we know, tend to prefer quiet, low-key environments. We recharge by spending time alone, rather than with people. In fact, socializing can actually be draining for an introvert, creating physical and mental fatigue.
Introverts tend to be more sensitive than extroverts, and socializing put us under a lot of stress, making us feel overwhelmed. Our brains have to process all of the sights and sounds around us, which takes up the energy we need for other important tasks.
Socializing also involves effort. We have to be aware of our surroundings, respond to others, and make sure we’re coming off our best. All that takes energy, too. Finally, we have to monitor our own moods, as well as the moods of others.
Networking is draining for an introvert
It is true that introverts tend to make better entrepreneurs, but networking is still extremely draining for them. Networking is the art of building connections, relationships, and partnerships with the goal of growing your business.
In order to network, you will have to bring yourself out of your comfort zone and talk to people who you may not know or even like. You will also have to put yourself out there, which introverts tend to do poorly at. If you are an introvert, networking can be extremely draining and lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Going out and being in “public” is draining for an introvert
Going out and being in public is one of the most draining aspects of being an extrovert. For an introvert, it’s the opposite. Extroverts love to be around people and thrive off of attention and stimulation found in large parties and gatherings.
Introverts, on the other hand, would prefer to stay at home in a quiet, low-stimulation environment. Going out can leave them feeling drained, bored, and even anxious. Going out to dinner with friends, attending parties, and spending time in loud, busy places can be draining for an introvert.
When surrounded by a lot of people, introverts can feel like they are drowning because they are being bombarded with too much stimulation at once.
How can extroverts understand the circumstance of introverts?
Introverts are people who introspect. They are deep thinkers and they like to be alone. They are not shy, they just like their own company. Extroverts are outgoing, social people. They like being around others and they get their energy from being around people. Being an introvert in a world that is geared towards extroverts can be hard. Here are some ways that extroverts can try to understand the introverts in their lives:
- Introverts need time to recharge after being around people. This means that they might not always be available to go out or do things. It’s not personal, they just need some time to themselves.
- Just because introverts don’t always want to talk, doesn’t mean they don’t have anything to say. Sometimes introverts just need time to process their thoughts before they can share them with others.
- Don’t take it personally if an introvert doesn’t want to go out or do something with you. They are not rejecting you, they just need some time to themselves.
- Try to be patient with introverts, they might take a little longer to open up but it will be worth it in the end.
Socializing is draining for anyone, but especially for an introvert. It takes energy for an introvert to make themselves go out, and once they’re there, it takes even more energy to try and fit in. Being around large groups of people is loud and chaotic, and it’s easy for an introvert to get lost in the shuffle.
