Welcome to the introvert side of the spectrum!

Perhaps you are here by force due to unexpected circumstances, or perhaps you are generally curious about what it means to be an introvert and exhibit introverted behaviours.

Look no further! The following guidelines will help you in your understanding and your quest in Becoming an Introvert.

1. Read – a lot. Introverts typically enjoy reading anything – fiction, nonfiction, the back of shampoo bottles; shoot, sometimes when we’re really bored we’ll read through manuals! Reading a book, however, can be done any number of ways: the old-fashioned way with a book in one’s hands, audio books, even digital books. Now, there are even podcasts that tell stories and read books. Introverts take advantage of these.

2. Text, don’t call. Introverts are rather suspicious of telephones (really, they’re rather suspicious of people, but let’s not split hairs). It’s not that introverts don’t value the purpose of telephones in life, but if an introvert doesn’t have to talk to someone, they don’t. Being an introvert means taking time to answer a text, letter, or e-mail because they usually don’t like being put on the spot or feeling rushed. If your phone has texting capabilities, start making the most of it….but also expect longer reply times from your fellow introverts. In fact, when you get a text, it’s really okay to not answer right away (unless it’s extremely important); introverts understand that the talking-to-the-people anxiety is a thing.

3. Hobbies are your friends. Introverts enjoy hobbies, especially ones that don’t involve needing to be around other people. You can take up crafting, sewing, writing, photography – the list is endless.

4. ‘Time Together Alone’ is a motto for most introverts. They can be around people, enjoy it even, if they can retreat when they need to. Practice your distance from others in social settings, and being an introvert will become easier. (Inadvertently, introverts also take advantage of online books clubs and online games – social interaction without having to leave the house? Check.)

5. ‘I’m an introvert.’ If you repeat these words to yourself, you will find them to be true. The more people tell themselves that they are something, the more they believe it. Go on; make those words your mantra.

6. ‘Fake it ’till you make it.’ Just because you do all of the above does not mean you will automatically become an introvert. If you have lived most of your life as an extrovert you will have some difficulty converting your mind to this new way of thinking and lifestyle. Do not worry! The old adage to ‘fake it ’till you make it’ will come in handy. So, start faking. (Introverts are pros at this.)

Remember: you have a large community of supporters around you. Introverts are in this together – alone and separately.