Extroverted? 5 Tips to Stay Quiet Around Introverts

I have seen articles… no, wait… ARTICLES… Hundreds of articles on how introverts can be social. But how come there are so few on extroverts?

Why is extroversion so normal?

Just because I’m your co-passenger doesn’t mean you have the pressure to strike up a conversation. I’m perfectly fine with you sitting quietly for the 2 hours until you get down at your destination.

So, here’s an article for the so-called natural-born speakers, networkers and leaders to learn to stay quiet. Extroverts will find these tips helpful to rein in their natural tendencies to talk and engage.

Shall we dive in? Let’s.

5 Tips for Extroverts to Embrace Silence

Here are my five tips to help you enjoy moments of quietness and relaxation:

1. Find a seat with no one around

One of the simplest ways to embrace silence is by finding a seat away from others. Wherever you are, look for distant corners. Go as far from the nearest human as you can. Just make sure not to fall down the edge of the earth.

Sit in a secluded area where you can have no disturbance. Having some alone time can help you recharge and feel refreshed.

2. Pretend not to see a stranger

Even if you find someone approaching your place, maybe the introvert species, pretend to not see them. You can smile or nod if you make eye contact, but that’s it. Do nothing else to initiate a conversation.

It’s like creating a boundary for yourself. You need to listen to your body’s need to stay still for some time. Else it will age faster (and might not gracefully).

3. Observe what others are doing

Another way to embrace silence is by observing what others are doing around you. Taking a step back and simply observing your surrounding can be a great way to quiet your mind.

You can take note of the scenery, listen to the sounds of nature or just people-watch. And you’ll find yourself doing mental conversations, just like introverts do.

4. Listen to your favourite music

And when you’re bored of sitting idle, engage yourself with activities that don’t involve other people. Listening to music is one of the favourite pastime of the introvert species.

It can actually be quite helpful. Pick a song you love, put your headphones on and do what you feel like. Oh wait, don’t sing along loud, just listen.

5. Carry a book full of stories

I know you love stories. But just for a change, avoid interrupting others to hear their stories. Carrying a book full of stories can be a great way to embrace silence around introverts.

Pick a kids’ book. They are full of visuals and short stories. Reading will transport you to another world and you might find you’re enjoying this alone time.

Check my list of suggested books for beginner readers

Wrapping It Up

There’s nothing wrong with being an extrovert. However, it’s important to be able to balance your social needs with the need for alone time of introverts.

It’s okay to take a break from being the life of the party sometimes. By incorporating these tips, you’ll learn to appreciate the value of silence. Enjoy and recharge yourself for the next interaction.