Being an introvert is not a decision a person makes overnight; it is first a personality that can be caused by factors that include the environment and upbringing of a person.
The problem in society is that people judge introverts as being shy, socially anxious, or overly reserved.
While this trait comes with its advantages, it also has its downsides, and we will be looking at how to find that perfect balance.
Signs of an Introvert
It’s easy to know an introvert when you see one. Look out for these common signs, and you most likely would not be wrong.
Likewise, if you are still not sure whether you are an introvert or not, these signs could clear your doubts.
When you get tired easily in a social gathering.
Do social gatherings bore you?
Don’t get it wrong, introverts also ‘like’ to be among people, but they always feel more comfortable with close friends and family. When an introvert is in a gathering of unfamiliar people, there’s a tendency to feel nervous, tired, or reserved unless they have to contribute.
Love of privacy
Do you prefer to read books in a private/lone room, take walks in a quiet environment and spend time alone in the room? Introverts love their privacy, and that’s a sign!
Other personality traits of an introvert include:
• They take time before making a decision.
• Introverts prefer to write down their thoughts rather than talk about them.
• Introverts are not as excited about group tasks.
• They are more comfortable being alone.
• Introverts are self-conscious
• They concentrate better in quiet places.
If these signs best describe you and you’d like to learn how to break free, these next tips will help.
These 5 points will help you overcome being an introvert
1. Talk to at least 4-5 strangers daily
Most ex-introverts have taken this challenge when trying to reduce or break free from their old way of life, and it still works to date.
Practice going out each day and talking at length to 4-5 strangers, not friends.
This might seem difficult at first, so you can do this at least 3-4 times every week till you have built enough courage to talk to someone new every day.
It’s okay to practice a list of general questions like “telling them your name and asking for theirs, giving general compliments, etc.” You will be amazed at the results.
2. Take up the challenge of speaking in front of all
Public speaking is a big challenge most people face, but introverts have a higher tendency to avoid it entirely.
Sometimes you’ll hear public speakers share their experiences of how they dreaded talking to groups of people but had to practice till it became second nature. You can do the same!
You can start by deciding to address your colleagues at work or school when the opportunity presents itself. You could even plan to host an outdoor event and put your name down as the speaker for the day.
Create these opportunities or look out for them; they’ll help you overcome the shyness that naturally accompanies being an introvert.
3. Practice in front of the mirror
After you have made up your mind to speak in front of others, it’s time to practice for your big day: Stand in front of the mirror and recite your speech, imagine your audience in front of you, and you can even imitate how you’ll ask and answer their questions.
Before you leave, you can also do the following:
• Correct your posture (chin up and stand tall)
• Speak with confidence and practice talking clearly.
4. Be open to attending get-togethers or meetups
This is a challenge you should take seriously. Honor the invites from your friends (old or new), family, colleagues, or business associates, especially when it doesn’t affect your morals and faith adversely.
It could be your opportunity to meet someone new and free yourself up some more. Don’t be quick to decline!
5. Start from your house
If you already seclude yourself while at home, that’s the perfect place to begin before you set out to speak to strangers.
You can start with these tips:
• Take active participation in the activities at home.
• Initiate a discussion with your loved ones on a subject you know they’ll be interested in.
• Practice voicing your views more often. Don’t always think your opinion is insignificant or irrelevant.
• Listen actively to your loved ones
Introverts generally have a hard time relating to those around them, as they prefer to be left alone. But if you practice these tips, you’ll overcome the challenges that most introverts deal with and live a free and exciting life.
