How To Make Friends As An Introvert (9 Ways)

If you’re an introvert, you’re probably used to spending time with yourself. You may come to a point where you realize that you’ve lost touch with some of your friends and family.

Perhaps you haven’t felt lonely, but well-intentioned relatives keep mentioning that you might benefit from a few new acquaintances.

When wanting to have more friends, learn to change your behavior about socializing. Don’t change your introvert identity, just level up your socializing skills.

Also, don’t be afraid to make the first move, ask questions, and know their interest. You can consider the people you’re already acquainted with as a start for making friends. 

If you are an introverted person and you wish to make new friends then this article is perfect for you. In this article, we will guide you on how to make friends as an introvert. 

What Is an Introvert?

To begin, know that there is nothing wrong with the way your brain is naturally wired. Perhaps you’re ever unsure of your exact personality type these days, in which case this breakdown of introvert vs. extrovert traits will come in handy.

It’s safe to say that the majority of people place themselves somewhere in between these two extremes.

Introverts are quiet and reserved. They hate becoming the center of attention and praise. Introverts don’t like to brag about their accomplishments or knowledge. They might know more than they admit.

Introverted gifted children are more likely to “dumb down” because they hide their abilities. Exhausted, in a large group, or with too much going on, introverts may show little facial expression or body movement.

Introverts have two distinct personalities: private and public, which is why they can be chatty at home but quiet elsewhere.

What Are Introvert Preferences And Activities?

Introverts require some level of privacy. As a result, people who don’t understand introverts believe that their desire to be alone is a sign of depression.

The behavior is normal for introverts and not a sign of drawing down from life. Connecting with others drains their energy, so they require time to themselves to recharge.

Apart from that, being alone gives them time to reflect and come up with solutions on their own. Even when forced to attend a large gathering, introverts would much rather spend their time with a small group of people discussing topics they are all experts in. 

Introverts prefer activities that they can do by themselves or with a small group of people. Many introverted and gifted children enjoy reading because of this.

For this reason, they prefer activities that allow them to express their creativity, such as writing or creating music or art. Introverted children, on the other hand, enjoy quiet, imaginative play.

Introverts prefer to observe a group activity or game before they join in, preferring to observe rather than participate.

A lot of people mistake this for shyness, but it isn’t at all. They feel more at ease in familiar surroundings, and they’re simply trying to familiarize themselves with the activity before they join in on the fun.

There is nothing wrong with being introverted or lacking close friends. Don’t force yourself into new experiences if you’re happy with your current situation.

If you do feel lonely, however, you should begin by making small social connections to broaden your social circle.

How To Make Friends As an Introvert

If you’re an introvert who thrives in solitary confinement, finding “your people” can be downright impossible. Most nights, introverts prefer to stay at home and relax rather than go out and meet new people.

Having a hard time connecting with others is hard because you, introverts are averse to socializing.

Your brains are wired in such a way that you have a limited capacity for social interaction.

Consequently, the introverted adult was once a child who was just as shy and introverted. Some people believe introverts are aloof, unfriendly loners who lack social skills, but this is not the case.

Some introverts have various social interests and wishes.

Associating with new people takes a lot of time and effort for those who are more reserved by nature. Although introverted people don’t need a large group of friends, they still need to be social.

Are you introverted and want to make friends? Here are some ideas on how to make friends and be sociable:

1. Consider the people you’re already acquainted with.

Do you want to have more friends? Well, you don’t have to go anywhere to meet new people. Almost certainly, you already have acquaintances whom you’d like to spend more time. Like-minded individuals can be found.

Try to get in touch with at least one or two of the people you’ve already known. Who knows, maybe one of your co-workers or your schoolmates has the same thoughts as you. 

2. Don’t be afraid to take the initiative.

Most introverts prefer to wait for others to approach them, so maybe you are too.

When you’ve had your share of awkward encounters, you may be afraid of being rejected. “What if she refuses to go out with me for a drink?” “What if he doesn’t like me once he gets to know me better?” These thoughts may have bugged you but, take the first move.

Even the most confident of us can become self-conscious during the process of making new friends. You may also feel like giving up if you are an introvert who has experienced a lot of rejection.

3. Change your behavior, not your identity.

Behavior change, not identity change, is what you should focus on. To make new friends, you don’t have to change who you are.

Exuding confidence in your ability to “fake it until you make it” may sound like a good plan, but it can backfire.

Characteristics of one’s personality are rarely malleable. But you’re still that person who craves solitude, so it’s no use pretending otherwise. Perhaps changing how you behave can have a positive impact on your health. 

4. Give a glimpse of your inner world.

It may feel like you must charm everyone you meet for them to like you, but it doesn’t. Introverts who are particularly perceptive and empathic can benefit from this trait. In the end, this is where things can go awry.

It’s like walking up and down an escalator, only to realize that you’re not going anywhere. As a result, it can be physically and emotionally exhausting. 

To please the other person, you show only the parts of yourself that you think they want to see. It’s exhausting to keep up this front.

Because it is draining your energy, a friendship is likely to make you reassess why you are in it in the first place.

Let your true self shine through to the people you meet and make a connection with. Give them a glimpse into your world as an introvert. 

5. Asking questions is a great way to learn.

As introverts, we all dread having to talk about ourselves when we meet new people. Often, this is enough to stop a blossoming friendship in its tracks.

The ability to listen is a special trait of introverts. People who aren’t introverts enjoy talking about themselves the most, and listening takes the spotlight away from them.

6. Learn to be patient.

People come and go in your life, and you won’t get along with every single one of them. Assuming otherwise is irrational; it’s normal.

Sometimes it’s hard to accept that your socializing efforts will go nowhere. Rejection is never pleasant, and it can be even more discouraging when you’ve made a real effort to engage and nothing happens.

Never forget that taking risks increases your likelihood of success. True friendship necessitates work and can take time to develop.

7. Pay attention to your emotions.

The most important factor in a friendship is how it makes you feel, not how similar you two appear to others or what they think of you.

Sometimes introverts have to be intentional about checking in with their feelings, as they can get lost in all the other activities going on in their busy minds. 

The fact that introverts are good listeners and appear calm makes us attractive to emotionally needy people. This type of relationship is exhausting for you, introverts because you are gratified when other people take the initiative.

Permit yourself to step away from someone who is draining your energy. Another source of exhaustion is the last thing you need in your life.

As a result, you’ll have more time and energy to devote to the people and situations that are right for you.

8. Know their interest

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered whether or not someone likes you. It’s not uncommon for introverts to have a hard time determining whether someone is truly interested in them or just being polite. 

9. Eventually, the awkwardness will fade away.

Intuitive people, like introverts, tend to hold back their best qualities, such as their quirky, fun, and unique personalities until they feel safe enough to do so.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if it takes some time to adjust to a new group of people. You’ll feel more at ease the more time you spend with them.

Conclusion

Remember that no two introverts are alike. People can be extroverts or introverts, depending on their personality. Shyness and anxiety in social situations affect some people more than others. So, take it easy and be kind to yourself.

To build genuine, long-term connections, you need to put in the time and effort. Your decision will pay off in the long run. You’ll be happy you did it in the end.