How to Flip the Extrovert Switch 7 Secret Hacks for Introverts - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / How to Flip the Extrovert Switch 7 Secret Hacks for Introverts - Introvert Whisperer How to Flip the Extrovert Switch: 7 Secret Hacks for Introverts There is nothing wrong with being an introvert. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to close the door and breathe and shut off the obligation to interact. There’s nothing wrong with needing quiet to hear yourself think. Of course, there are times when we either have to be more extroverted or feel like we should be more extroverted. If you’re extroverted and shy those moments can seem pretty daunting. How do you do it? You’re probably getting tense just thinking about it. Not to worry, there are solutions! Let’s look at 7 methods for bolstering yourself to get social. Listen As an introvert, you might not think you have the gift of conversation. Nothing could be further from the truth! Talkers want to talk. You just have to listen. Some of the best conversationalists aren’t the best speakers, they’re the best listeners. They absorb what is being said in thoughtful consideration. Their responses are responses, not one-upped interjections. So, even though you might remain quiet, you can still be part of a great conversation. Let the other person talk, listen thoughtfully, and take your time to craft a meaningful response. The other person will come away thinking that you’re the greatest conversationalist in the world â€" and a wise one too. Don’t Blame Your Introversion Every once in a while you need to take a step out of your comfort zone. You can’t fall back on your introversion all of the time. Do you really want to miss out on new experiences? You might be nodding your head yes, but think about those times that you have stepped out of your introversion and tried something new. At least a few of those experiences had to be positive. If an old friend invites you to a holiday party, don’t make an excuse. Set yourself up to go and plan to stay for a short time. Odds are that you’ll end up enjoying yourself for longer than you thought you would. If a coworker invites you to join a group nature walk, give it a try. If you get overwhelmed, just pretend to be having a “mindfulness moment” over a butterfly until it passes.   Lead by Example Most people think that to be a great leader you have to be an extrovert. Not true. Some of the greatest leaders were introverts. Ever hear of Abraham Lincoln? Thomas Jefferson? There are several attributes of introverts that make them great leaders. The ability to focus, a commitment to quality rather than personal recognition, thoroughness, and the ability to make bonded connections rather than many superficial acquaintances. With those factors, it’s easy to see why introverts make great leaders. They lead by example. People want to follow someone who is inspired, dedicated, and authentic. More so than someone who is loud, self-advancing, and micromanaging. They would rather follow and emulate someone’s actions. Actions are a better motivator than words. Embrace Your Differences Most introverts feel pressure when spending time with other people. It can be hard to feel like yourself when surrounded by higher energy extroverts that want your attention, approval, or opinion. Those feelings are valid and authentic and there is value in embracing them. History is littered with successful introverts. People like Einstein and Bill Gates were able to do amazing things and reach extraordinary heights. They accomplished this because they refused to conform to extroverted norms rather than change their natural inclinations. Both Gates and Einstein credited having time alone to think with being able to construct complex ideas that changed the world. Embrace your differences and use them to your advantage. Be a Copycat When you’re out amongst the throngs in a bar, at a work function, or another public place you might not know what to do with yourself. Should you approach people? Get a drink? Talk about something current and relevant? When you aren’t quite sure what to do, do what the Romans are doing. Within reason, of course. It might not seem authentic and you might feel foolish, but you only have to do it until you’ve adapted to the situation. Then you can let your true colors shine. Reward Yourself Trying to be an extrovert when you’re not can be so tiring. When introverts step into social situations they take on not only the stress of interaction but the stress and high energy of those around them. That’s why you need to reward yourself. You have to recharge. Not only because you want that escape, but because you need it to be your best self. Reward yourself each time you step out of your comfort zone. The reward could be as simple as taking some time in a quiet place or comforting yourself with something delicious. Close your eyes and enjoy the peace. Accept Challenges As an adult, you may have been indulging your introversion for a long time. You don’t have people (outside of pushy friends) forcing you to do things you don’t want to do. As a result, you might not think there are many opportunities for you to try to be an extrovert. There are. The trick is just to say yes. Say yes to the dinner party invitation. Say yes to the group lunch. Say yes to the mini vacay. Sometimes we don’t know that we have the strength to do a thing until we’ve done it. At the very least, take it in baby steps. You might like it. Pushing your comfort limits occasionally can open you up for greater success. Success in your career and more enjoyment in your life. There are advantages to throwing that extrovert switch. Embracing your introversion can do the same. It’s a matter of knowing how to balance it. Be yourself, most of the time. Don’t fight your introversion â€" use it to your advantage. But also be willing to flip that switch on occasion and let out your inner extrovert. You do have one in there somewhere!