How to Be More Extroverted in Reverse
There are numerous articles and lists available that teaches introverts how to become more extroverted. They want introverts to speak more, be more confident, show up and show out. But what about the other way around?
There are not nearly as many articles that teach folk about the benefits and the how on being introverted. Why?
That’s because of the misconception that introverts are shy, soft-spoken, easily anxious, and awkward folks. But more than that, we see introverted traits as being less than and something about ourselves to hide. Truth is— there’s more to that “silence” an introvert brings than just being socially awkward. Being silent misleads people into thinking that introverts have low self-esteem.
It might be a surprise but the term “introvert” itself came from the Latin word “intro” which means “inward” and “vertre” means “turning”. The term “introvert” itself describes a kind of people who are more reserved and look inward rather than accepting what’s seen on the surface.
The reason why introverts love being alone is that they can energize independently and don’t rely on other people to be energetically influenced. They tend to think before they speak and prefer deep conversations rather than “small talk”.
With that being said, they’re nice folks to hang out with. They give introspective conclusions, listen well, and better know what they want and what they need. And the skills that an introvert has can be useful to extroverts, too. So here are 3 ways to be a bit more introverted!
How To be An Introvert!
#1. Sit down and think
Sit down and think about what it is that you want to say and why you want to say it. Introverted, or extroverted, we all need some time to hit pause- sit down and think. It might sound counterproductive, but pausing and sitting down to think helps us grasp more about what’s happening around us, our emotions, and our feelings.
With the constant distraction of hustling, or always pushing ourselves to be always on the go, hustling and grinding, we set aside ourselves in the process. We don’t even give time to think and ask ourselves about what we need and want. Having some quiet time and being alone will help us check on ourselves inwardly. We get to finally think about what we need and want.
It will strengthen your self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-confidence. It’s all about finding yourself and trusting who you are. Look at how beautiful you are without the constant influence of other people! You should be proud of who you are inside and outside. If you’ve decided to finally have some quiet time alone, you can learn more about self-esteem here!
#2. Observe
Observing ain’t much more than “Read The Room.” And let’s be real, some of us need a little more help in this area. Observe what is going on around you. Note how people seem to be feeling, what they might be thinking, and generally note how they're interacting or not interacting with the people around you. Taking time to observe the people around you improves your awareness. It makes you more aware of yourself and it will help you be more introspective in the way you interact or approach other people.
If your world is in turmoil and you are constantly caught up in chasing time, observing will help you ease up and calm down. Try and disconnect for a while from all the jazz and busyness, and just take time to stroll around. Observe the beauty of the surroundings, and the smiles of the people walking with you on the street. You can take a break and observe while buying your favorite coffee down the street. Being in the moment and feeling in the moment helps us to be more appreciative and thankful.
Not only does this improve your social interactions, but it also improves you inwardly. The more you observe, the more you become mindful to distractions. It teaches your brain to concentrate and take control. And there’s self-confidence in knowing that there’s more that’s in your control.
#3. Mind your business.
Minding your own business means literally minding what’s within your business, not to mention, it’s great for your mental health! Part of your business is yourself, the things you care about, and the people you love.
Minding your own business is the reason why introverts love deep conversations. And why in a conversation do they prefer to listen more than talk. It’s a good practice to take time and digest what you’re friends, family, or the person you love is talking about. Noticing those details in their story helps you become a better friend, family, or partner to them.
Being in your own mind to care about the people in your circle, and yourself will eliminate the distractions life throws at us.
Try and think about your business, feel your business, and consider your business to cultivate deeper connections with your friends, your small group of friends who you say you love. It doesn’t do any harm to learn from the introverts and move beyond the “small talk” into the deeper unexplored areas of who they are and who you are.
Final thoughts
Society trends have made being an introvert synonymous with being quiet, soft-spoken, socially apprehensive, and awkward in social circumstances. Just because a person is quiet doesn’t mean they’re shy. There is a distinction to be made between introversion, social anxiety, and shyness.
The truth is— introverted folk prefer to examine themselves within. They are concerned with what is going on inside them, and they monitor and understand other people. They let others be themselves and do their thing because they realize this. That’s how introverted people think before they speak.
Being an introvert is as good as being an extrovert and does NOT require them to change who they are to make others more comfortable.
They're probably more introverted people around you than you know. And they might be noticing things about you and the other people around us that we don’t usually notice.
Introverts make up from ⅓ to ½ of the world’s population. So, whenever you meet one that is kind of quiet and reserved—- don’t jump to conclusions and assume that they’re shy or they “need fixing.” Not all introverts are the same. Learning about the misconceptions and some of their good qualities can help improve our understanding of people who are different from us.
So, I don’t know why anyone would want the introvert to be anything other than what they are, if you truly value people for who they are and how they show up.