Being an introvert in an extroverted world is not easy. Because of that, for those of us who are introverts, it’s an understatement to say that we are misunderstood.
For much of my life, I did not even realize how much my introverted nature was being misunderstood. I figured if I had a good heart, even if I was reserved, most people would understand that I was simply an introvert. Now, I understand that isn’t the truth. I have learned over the years how to ‘fake it’ enough not to seem weird, and to be upfront with the fact that I tend to be an introvert.
If you are like me, and your introverted nature often gets you placed in a tough spot, then you might want to read over the following. And if you are an extrovert who has an introvert as a friend, it may help you to understand their mindset to look over the following as well.
1. Introverts are careful about the people they surround themselves with.
Introverts do not want to be surrounded by a million people. On the contrary, they would rather have a few great friends who they can trust and understand, than a million that don’t understand them and only cause drama in their life.
2. They need time alone to recharge.
Introverts enjoy socializing with their friends and family. However, after a social event, they need time to decompress. Introverts are easily overstimulated in larger groups and sometimes even small ones.
3. They don’t care for unexpected visitors.
If you are friends with an introvert, you have likely already picked up on this. It’s not that they mind the company, that isn’t what bothers them. It’s that they need time to prepare for company, mentally and otherwise.
4. They need time to acclimate to change.
Introverts are sensitive to change. Even the slightest change can completely throw them off. Because of this, the more notice of an impending change they have, the easier it is for them to prepare for it.
5. They value loyalty above all else.
Introverts may not be the most social people in the world, but the people they value are valued on the highest pedestal. They care deeply and with all of their heart, and they will stand by the ones they love, no matter what. To them, quality friendships and family relationships that are loyal in nature are extremely important.
6. They are quiet until they get to know you.
When an introvert firsts meet you, they may come off as rude. Oftentimes, they are standoffish and may even appear as odd or eccentric. However, once they get to know you, they will talk your ears off under the right circumstances.
7. They love spending time with their friends/family, but need downtime too.
While the introvert doesn’t always want to spend their days alone, because they value time with friends and family, they still need downtime. If an introvert says ‘Sorry, not today.’ It’s not because they don’t want to spend time with you, it’s because they need to decompress.
8. They don’t care for attention-seeking behaviors.
Introverts do not care for attention-seekers. They abhor them. They do not like attention to be on them and prefer to stay on the sidelines quietly and to themselves.
9. They don’t answer the phone unless they know who it is.
To an extrovert, who loves chit-chat, it may seem odd that someone would let a call go to voicemail. However, there again, introverts do not like to be caught off guard. Because of this, if a number calls them that they do not know, they are not likely to answer it.
10. They value deep conversation over small talk.
Introverts are people who value deep conversation. Introverts do not care to talk about the weather or gossip. On the contrary, they want to talk about the meaning of life. They yearn for deep conversation. And if you want to engage an introvert, this is the way.
11. They don’t mind canceled plans.
If you need to cancel plans with an introvert, they aren’t going to mind. You might be worried you will hurt their feelings or something, but honestly, they will probably be just as content if you cancel the plans. It’s not that they don’t want to hang out, but they are okay with spending quiet time together or alone too.
12. They aren’t a fan of spontaneous social situations.
Nothing terrified an introvert more than spontaneous social plans. If they have time to think things over and mentally prepare, that’s one thing. However, last-minute plans wreck their nerves.