How to Be More Introverted if You're an Extrovert

Co-authored by Trudi Griffin, LPC, MS

Last Updated: February 12, 2023 References Approved

Extroversion is a natural and healthy personality trait.^{[1]
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Research source} However, it can be worthwhile for an extrovert to cultivate a few contemplative practices. If you're an extrovert, perhaps you've never considered how a rich inner life can bring positive benefits for both you and the people you care about. In fact, it may be very valuable to learn how to enjoy solitude as well as social relationships.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

What Being an Introvert Means

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Don't confuse being an introvert with being shy. A person who is shy usually wants to socialize but can't, because they are anxious in some way. But an introvert chooses not to socialize sometimes because they acquire psychological energy (or "recharge") from time spent alone.^{[2]
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Keep in mind most people are neither fully extroverted or fully introverted. Famed psychologist Carl Jung, who coined the terms “extroverted” and “introverted”, argues there is no such thing as a complete extrovert or a complete introvert.^{[3]
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- In fact, most people have a mix of extroverted and introverted tendencies, but tend to fall more on one side of the continuum.
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Consider the benefits of balancing being an extrovert with introverted practices. Generally, the people most likely to display all the qualities of emotional, mental, physical and spiritual well-being are those who have a well-rounded balance between the introverted and extroverted sides of their personality.^{[4]
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- For instance, if we prefer a life of solitude and are aware of our introverted nature, taking some new risks and adventures that involves interaction with groups of people could enrich our lives in a different and interesting way.
- Similarly for extroverts, if we are "the life of the party," we may also benefit from adding a "time-out" to our lives, such as a time for reflection, a daily walk around the neighborhood or perhaps committing to reading a book 15 minutes a day.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Developing Introverted Practices

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Keep a journal. While extroverts are primarily concerned with what's going on outside themselves, introverts are often preoccupied with their inner world. One way to shift focus is by keeping a journal; commit to a daily writing practice.^{[5]
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Research source} Ask yourself questions like:
- What did I feel? Why?
- What did I learn today? Who did I learn from?
- What ideas arrived? Who did I think about today?
- How was today different than yesterday? Than last week? Than last year?
- What can I be grateful for? Who in my world seems lonely? Why?
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Nurture your individual creativity.^{[6]
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Research source} Imagination and ideas develop from observation of the exterior world. The more you observe outside you, the more you take notice and the more connections you can make from concepts that may not naturally fit together.
- When you're by yourself, what do you notice? What impressions does the world make on you? Creativity could be seen as 'self-absorbed', but a tremendous external focus is involved.
- Write fictional short stories
- Create works of art - painting, sculpture, sketching, etc.
- Use an art journal
- Write songs
- Write poetry
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Enjoy solitary tasks. Such activities will cultivate patience and possibly relieve stress, as well as boredom, during times when you have to be alone. Here are some ideas:
- Reading
- Knitting, crochet
- Programming
- Listening to music by yourself
- Practicing an instrument
- Taking a solitary walk or hike
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Increase your awareness.^{[7]
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Trustworthy Source
Harvard Business Review
Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices
Go to source} Whether that means relating to a higher power, meditating or just taking time out of your day to learn something new, any shift or increase in perspective will nurture your introverted side.
- Practicing mindfulness and things like Zen driving will also help.^{[8]
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  Research source} Contemplating the mysteries of science (the universe, quantum theory) can also be an intensely introspective experience.
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Be patient.^{[9]
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Research source} Sometimes solitude and looking inward can seem "boring" to an extrovert, since you're used to drawing energy from external stimuli. Think of learning how to embrace solitude similar to starting a new sport, one that you're not already naturally talented in. At first it's awkward and repetitive, but once you get the hang of it, you'll start having fun.
- Keep in mind that introversion is not a mountain waiting to be climbed. In fact, most introverts use 'alone time' to recharge themselves. Alone time can be a good way to replenish after giving a lot of energy to a highly social situation or to someone that is also extroverted.^{[10]
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