At VP Legacies, we realize that learning how to make friends as an introvert is often tricky. Predominately because there are so few helpful tips to assist you along the way. You’re an introvert, so going out of your way to make conversation isn’t always the easiest task for you. The thought of being in crowded spaces and mingling with multiple people might even spark anxiety in you.
You’re used to keeping to yourself and staying at home most of the time. Home is your safe place where you’re most comfortable, yet you seek something more. Spending time alone to focus on yourself has many perks, but you find yourself becoming a bit lonely.
There are times when you feel you need a few friends and are now ready to learn how to make friends even though you have an introvert personality. Gaining real friendships takes time, but it’s not impossible, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve.
Continue reading below for some of the best tips to help you build friendships as an introvert we’ve learned working with various company cultures across the globe!
Related: What is the Personal Connection Crisis?
How Do I Know if I’m an Introvert?
Not everyone who enjoys spending time alone here and there considers themselves an introvert. There’s a lot of grey area, but here are some of the main characteristics associated with introverts.
Introvert Characteristics
Although not every introvert is the same, and some have different characteristics than others, there are a few characteristics that are quite common amongst all introverts. Some introvert tendencies are as follows:
- You become tired quickly when around a group of people
- You have a small number of close friends
- You enjoy your alone time
- You’re often quiet
- You excel in jobs that require independence
- You learn best by watching quietly
Be Introspective
One of the best ways to determine if you’re an introvert or not is to be introspective. Take a look into yourself and uncover your unique qualities. What do you know about yourself and the way you react to certain situations? Are your personality traits reflecting those of an introvert or a shy person? Writing in a diary is a great way to be introspective and can help you take a journey into your thoughts.
Take a Personality Test
If you’re still unable to determine if you’re an introvert or not, you can always consider taking a personality test. A personality test will ask you questions that will help you find the right answer. The only way these tests can work, however, is if you answer them honestly and to the best of your ability.
Taking the First Steps
If it’s determined that you are an introvert, then it’s time to take the first steps in learning how to make friends. Making friends is a process for introverts and non-introverts alike. Here’s how you can get started.
Connecting With Other Introverts
Connecting with other introverts is a great way to get started socializing with peers. When you’re able to communicate with people who have similar interests and personality traits as you do, it’s easier to relate to them. You won’t have to worry as much about explaining why you need time to yourself frequently, for example.
Think About Introverts You Already Know
Making new friends doesn’t always have to involve participating in a networking event or large social gathering. Think about some introverts that you already know. There’s a good chance that you know a few people who seem interesting or have similar interests as you that you could get to know better. Go out of your way to socialize with these people more often.
Don’t Stress About Rejection
If rejection does happen, don’t take it to heart. This happens to extroverts, too! If someone isn’t open to starting a new friendship, then let it be. You never know what this person has going on in his or her life and might not be ready to start something new. The best thing to do is move along and try reaching out to someone more willing to start a new friendship.
Related: How to Deal With Anxiety at Work
Maintaining a Relationship
Once you begin to create a friendship with someone, you have to put in a bit of work to maintain the relationship. Maintaining a healthy friendship requires effort from all parties. Here’s what you need to know.
Schedule Regular Meetings
A great way to keep up a friendship without having to communicate with the other person every day is to set up regular meetings with him or her. For example, you can schedule a monthly coffee or lunch date at a favorite spot. This way, you’ll know every 3rd Saturday of the month (or whatever you choose to do) is dedicated to meeting your friend at your favorite lunch spot at noon. Remember, this is your time to relax and unwind as well. Don’t treat it as a meeting with your boss, but a dedicated time for you.
Sometimes time management or distance can prevent a person from meeting face to face. It is important to keep in mind that scheduling these meetings can also be in the form of a phone call , facetime, or even a simple text.
Shift Focus to Other Person
Being an introvert, you most likely enjoy keeping personal matters to yourself, which can make conversations more difficult for you. One helpful tip is to place the focus on the other person. Be sure to ask the other person about themselves, how their day’s been, and what’s new—this takes the focus off of you.
Be Introspective
Remember to be introspective. Take a few moments to reflect on your meetups, conversations, and more. Think about how you feel when spending time with your new friend. What could have gone better? What went perfectly? Jot down a few notes to keep for yourself.
It’s Okay to Be an Introvert
Being an introvert might cause you more hurdles when making new friends, but it’s okay to be an introvert. More people around you than you think might be introverts themselves!
Remember that all real friendships take time, and you should never force anything. Be yourself and connect with people who deserve your time.
Related: Social Distancing: Today’s Pandemic and Loneliness Epidemic
Learn How to Make Friends as an Introvert Today
Keep these tips in mind when you’re ready to learn how to make friends as an introvert. If you need a bit more assistance, then click here to access our interactive video courses. We’ve found that those who take the course as an introvert are likely to experience two main things. First, they feel more comfortable in their own skin. They no longer feel like being an introvert is a bad thing (something society has pressured them into feeling). Secondly, they are more likely to experience an increased level of happiness and satisfaction in their lives due to the friendships they gain using tactics from this course.