Every now and then, try instead to focus on what others might need from you. Maybe you’ll notice that there’s another introvert who’s been getting left out—approach them and make them feel interesting. This can help Youmetalks you feel less overstimulated, and instead, more purposeful. However, there are many ways to connect that skip this awkward step.
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They may find it hard to initiate conversations or engage in small talk, which can make building friendships challenging. I also learned that there are many ways for fellow introverts like myself to enjoy social interaction without feeling overwhelmed or drained by it. Many strategies for building connections enjoy quiet spaces, solo activities, and deep relationships, but they often wonder how to make connections without feeling overwhelmed. In this guide, we explore ways introverts can build meaningful connections that boost happiness and well-being. You will find practical techniques to nurture your relationships while staying true to your introverted nature. Feeling like it’s hard to keep or make friends as an introvert?
Welcome to the Introvert Mind, a website dedicated to introverts. I want to savor each milestone and appreciate the little victories. I’m taking it slow, just like the tortoise in Aesop’s fable.
On the contrary, you likely float through our busy mind quite a bit when we’re apart. However, as friends, we know we’ll see each other again, and we’d rather catch up in a way that’s meaningful — in person, favorite beverage in hand, one-on-one. It’s perfectly okay to start small and gradually expand (but only if you want to!) your friendships over time. Take time to go deep and slowly learn about your newfound friends, their interests, hobbies, likes, and dislikes. This slow and steady approach is more likely to lead to lasting friendships that are built on a foundation of understanding and mutual respect.
One true friend can be more fulfilling than a room full of acquaintances. These meaningful friendships provide emotional support and allow you to be your authentic self without pretense. I’m learning that silences aren’t necessarily a bad thing and not every silence has to be filled. If there’s a short pause in a conversation, I’m learning to not take it personally.
Finding enjoyable activities with introverts enhances your friendship. Focus on low-key hangouts and creative outings that cater to their preferences. A pioneer in telehealth, AbleTo has revolutionized the way people access quality mental healthcare. Delivering over 1 million patient sessions, AbleTo provides structured, high-quality and high-impact mental healthcare to people, when and where they need help most. AbleTo’s outcomes-focused approach is proven to improve both behavioral and physical health and lower overall medical costs. For more information, visit AbleTo at and follow AbleTo on LinkedIn and Twitter.
They provide a listening ear, empathy, and emotional intimacy to those they let into their world. We like to be around “small” groups, such as those considered to be our closest family and friends, because these are the people we can be ourselves around and open up to. The keyword here is “small” since only a few people fall within our inner circle.
Ending conversations smoothly is a skill everyone benefits from, especially introverts who get stuck in endless small talk. You don’t need to explain you’re introverted or drained. The moment you stop trying to entertain people and start trying connect with them, conversation becomes way easier. Like the tortoise in Aesop’s fable, I have slowly but surely made progress in understanding myself better and learning how to navigate relationships with others. It is interesting to know that while 75% of introverts consider themselves shy, only a handful of 29% of extroverts does.
Maintain eye contact, nod in agreement, and ask follow-up questions to show you’re engaged. When they express feelings or thoughts, validate them without interrupting. For example, if an introverted friend shares their concerns about work, refrain from redirecting the conversation. Instead, offer support by acknowledging their feelings and asking how you can help. This practice encourages them to share more openly and strengthens your bond. You may meet people who like being around you, but don’t necessarily interest you.
Joining a class or group around a shared interest, like art, hiking, or gaming, creates regular opportunities to interact with people who already have something in common with you. One of the hardest things for me to do is to let someone get close to me — physically and emotionally. It takes me a long time to fully open up to people and show genuine emotion and affection. I’m not the biggest hug-giver and I don’t like making myself vulnerable in front of people I don’t know very well.
