Introverts exist in a variety of flavors; some are reserved and dislike social situations while some people enjoy performing but need quiet time to recover afterwards. (Both Amy Schumer and Oprah identify as introverts.) Others are uncomfortable with scenarios in which they have to communicate with others or face a crowd. I heard a preacher on the television today who said that at one time when someone greeted him on the street, it would be about 2 blocks later that he would respond.

The stimulation of a crowded workplace atmosphere and a jam-packed workday tends to drains introverts. As one has said, “we require calm, restorative time. We need a sense of control over our environment, our pace and other human contact”.

Are you an introvert? Ask yourself the following questions: Do you find that being alone replenishes you? Would you choose to spend a portion of your workday in silence rather than surrounded by coworkers in a noisy office if given the option? Do you go to a lot of social events more as an obligation rather than a desire to be in a crowd? If you answered yes, you are most likely an introvert. It isn't a negative thing, it’s just the way that some of us are built.

How do you survive as an introvert?

ACCEPT YOUR PERSONALITY 

Don't feel obligated to adapt to the rest of society; as an introvert, I suffered for years with the idea that I needed to change in some way. However, living in a way that is not authentically you, will not serve the universe, and you will definitely not be happy. Don't be concerned with what people think; the best and most satisfying recognition comes from inside, and no one can give you as much affection and gratitude as you can. Furthermore, if you truly accept your real self, you will find people who will help you on your journey and enjoy you just the way you are.

TAKE BREAKS

Taking breaks is the single most important thing you can do to support yourself and cope with being in a crowded environment. Excuse yourself to use the restroom, dash out to your car to "grab something," or take a breath of fresh air. It's critical to take five or ten minutes to refresh yourself, collect your ideas, or mentally prepare for further chit chat.

MASTER SMALL TALK

If you know a little bit of the people who will be attending a function, try to make a mental note of a few tastes and preferences. If you're at concert, you would probably strike up a discussion with almost everyone by asking, “What do you like about this artiste?” Alternatively, keep a list of possible topics you could use. Listen to what others are talking about and join in the dialogue.

TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF

Introverts, you realize how easily you can get tired in large crowds or other loud social environments, so make sure that you have a place that you can rest in solitude. If your job requires a lot of social contact, make your home a haven of peace and quiet where you go to after a busy day and unwind; take a relaxing bath, light some candles, meditate, do yoga, colour, or do whatever puts you in a “flow” state of mind. Self-care is critical, particularly in these hectic, stressful times, so don't feel guilty for having time for yourself!

RESPECT YOUR CREATIVITY

Introverts need an expression for their feelings and are typically motivated to engage in solo activities that are imaginative and innovative. Grab any watercolors or paint, purchase a book, purchase a nice camera to practice photography, or do whatever makes you feel more relaxed and help you get in touch with yourself. Introverts like hobbies that do not entail a lot of social effort, and they find solace in quiet activities that enable them to reflect.

SELECT WORK THAT IS SUITABLE FOR YOUR INTROVERTED NATURE.

Many introverts are uncomfortable with jobs that require them to be in positions of leadership or management because they require a lot of contact with other people. Introverts excel in more solo jobs, so pick a profession that best suits your desires and personality. Don't feel guilty if you don't like your day-to-day corporate job; you get to plan your life based on what feels good to you, so pick wisely.

BE HONEST TO THEM

If you wouldn't feel like going out tonight, tell people right away. Inform them if you feel emotionally exhausted after any outing with them. Perhaps you should devote more time to yourself, or just prefer a small set of friends that do not overwhelm you. Although introverts and extroverts can both find some common ground and share a safe, fulfilling interaction or partnership, introverts must be explicit about their limits. You can leave the party early, ask for space, or do whatever you need to do to stop feeling frazzled or exhausted.

TAKE AN EXTROVERT WITH YOU

Do you have an extroverted friend? Quite likely. Often introverts make extroverted friends. In reality, if you're going to a big event, it's probably at the request of an extrovert in your life. Bring this extrovert with you, and they will introduce you to strangers, get chatty, and be a good buffer between you and others. If you are unable to carry a buddy, make one! We are not reluctant to socialize simply because we are introverts. The majority of us simply enjoy intimate parties, or even better, one-on-one talks. So locate a fellow wallflower and discover what they are curious about. When you have a common interest to explore, you're in business!