The difference between extroversion and introversion is based in how people interact with the world around them. Introverts are individuals who recharge by being alone, whereas extroverts feel the most energized when they are surrounded by others.
Because introverts don’t like overly stimulating environments, when they’re feeling stressed, it’s best that they take time for themselves away from others. Once they realize this, they are better able to find stress-relieving methods that help them achieve an inner calm.
As an introvert, I have learned over the years of the best ways to calm myself down in general and in stressful situations. If you’re an introvert or know an introvert who becomes easily stressed, try the following methods.
1. Get a journal.
Journaling is one of the best things an introvert can do. Introverts are reflective and often live within their own internal world. Being focused on so many thoughts can easily cause an overload of information and emotions, which is why daily journaling can be a game-changer for any introvert.
Introverts are more likely to fix situations by processing it on their own rather than talk to somebody about their problems. This is why journaling is a great way to get distance from those difficult thoughts while tackling them at the same time.
2. Create your own space.
Whereas extroverts thrive in busy environments where they talk to people, introverts need to be by themselves in order to recharge. After being in any place where there are a lot of people, introverts often need time alone to regain their energy. It’s important to have a space where you can do just that.
Whether it’s your bedroom, a meditation room, or even a coroner in your local library, find a place that is not too stimulating and allows you to be alone with your thoughts instead of being flooded by others’.
3. Set boundaries.
This is something that every introvert needs to take into account.
Often, it can be really easy to get swept up by your more extroverted friends into doing something in a loud or busy setting.
I’m not suggesting that introverts stay away from crowds or cancel plans with friends, but it is important for them to know their boundaries before they commit to doing anything.
Introversion is a spectrum. Some people are extremely introverted in that being around a group of people they don’t know can be extremely distressing, while others may not be as introverted and will grow tired after spending a whole day talking to people. Everyone has different limits, and it’s important that you find yours and learn how to set boundaries.
For instance, if you have a full day planned with your friends and then they invite you out for the evening, but you know for a fact you’ll be completely tired by then, set that boundary and tell them.
Only do whatever you’re comfortable with and try to inform the people around you of those boundaries. It can be difficult, especially when you don’t want to miss out on something, but in the long run, it will be better for your physical and mental health.
4. Know your cues.
After realizing that I was an introvert, I became more aware of when I would grow tired or become anxious. According to a Psychology Today article, introverts are more prone to anxiety than extroverts, and this anxiety often occurs in social settings.
Whether it’s knowing if a panic attack is coming or knowing what your limit for socializing is, it’s important that all introverts understand what their cues are so they can take a moment for themselves.
For some, they’ll know they are running out of energy when they can’t focus on a conversation anymore or they feel themselves growing sleepy.
Others may shut down completely and not want to talk to anyone. Everyone is different, but I find that introverts have personal cues that alert them when they need some time by themselves, even if it is just for five minutes.
If you’re unsure of your cues, keep track of your routine. Jot down at what point in the day your energy decreases and describe the environment around you. This can allow you to become more aware and will ultimately help you know when you need to take a step back.
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Introverts are known for their intuition and reflective nature, and in turn, need time to dwell in their own thoughts and be away from others.
By implementing these methods in your daily routine, you will not only be more aware about how you function in stressful situations, but will also have better tactics to prevent yourself from becoming stressed in the first place.
Reflect & Refresh 