How to Make Friends as an Introvert: The Ultimate Guide
Do you find yourself feeling uncomfortable in social situations? Do you often feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t know what to say? If so, then you are probably an introvert.
Introverts comprise a third of the population, and many have difficulty making friends.
If you’re an introvert, don’t worry! This guide is here to help.
We will discuss some tips that will help you make friends as an introvert and keep them. Read on!
Why Is Friendship Important?
Before we learn how to make friends, let’s discuss why friendship is important.
Friendship is a two-way relationship in which both parties share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s a mutual give-and-take relationship that helps us feel connected to others.
Friendships make our lives more meaningful and enjoyable. They give us a sense of belonging, support, and self-worth. They also provide us with a social life and help us learn and grow.
Friendships are vital for our mental and emotional health and are a key element of happiness. Studies show that people with strong social relationships are happier, healthier, and live longer. So if you want to improve your overall well-being, making friends should be one of your top priorities.
Who Is an Introvert?
An introvert is someone who prefers quieter, more intimate social situations. They are often seen as shy and may have difficulty talking to new people. Their shy nature doesn’t reflect their ability to be friends, however. In fact, introverts are often great friends!
One of the most common misconceptions about introverts is that they don’t like people or social interaction and have poor social skills. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Introverts just prefer to interact with people one-on-one or in small groups. They find large crowds and parties to be mentally draining and often prefer to stay home instead.
Another misconception about introverts is that they are always shy. Again, this is not the case. Introverts can be shy in some situations but not in others. For example, introverts might be shy around new people but not around their close friends. It’s important to remember that everyone has different comfort levels and that introverts are no exception.
Introverts can be very outgoing and expressive once they get to know someone. They are creative and thoughtful people with much to offer in friendships.
So, if you’re an introvert, don’t despair! You can have more friends. You just might have to put in a little extra effort to make them.
Why Is It Difficult for Introverts to Make Friends?
One of the main reasons that introverts have a hard time making friends is that they are often seen as shy. People may not approach them because they seem uninterested or aloof.
Introverts themselves may feel uncomfortable approaching a random stranger. They may feel awkward or out of place in large groups. They may also find small talk to be difficult or uncomfortable.
Additionally, introverts require alone time to rejuvenate their social energy and may be less interested in attending social events. This can make it challenging to meet new people and make friends.
How Do Introverts Make Friends?
Introverts prefer deeper, more meaningful friendships. They may have a small group of friends, but they are usually very close to those friends.
Many introverts find that they make friends easily when they are involved in a shared activity or interest. This can be anything from a sport to a hobby or club. They prefer to get to know someone slowly and gradually without the pressure of making small talk.
It can also be helpful for introverts to find friends who are introverted like them. This can help them feel more comfortable and allow them to connect on a deeper level. Introverts can easily spend hours at a coffee shop talking with their like-minded friends about their shared interests.
Online friendships can be a great way for introverts to connect with others. Social media, forums, and other online spaces can provide them with a safe and comfortable environment to meet new people and form relationships without the pressure of in-person interaction.
How to Make Friends as an Introvert
Making friends as an introvert can be challenging, but it is possible! Here are some tips to help you out:
Work on Your Body Language
Your body language can make a big difference in how people perceive you. If you want to appear more approachable, work on developing the appropriate body language that sends this message. Make eye contact, smile, stand up straight, and avoid crossing your arms.
If someone approaches you, make them feel welcome and comfortable. Show them you are interested in what they’re saying and ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation going.
Have Conversation Topics Ready
Having conversation topics prepared can help you feel more confident in social situations. Think about a few issues you are comfortable discussing so that you have something to say if you find yourself in an awkward situation.
Also, prepare a bit beforehand by reviewing the latest news and topics of interest. That way, you can have something interesting to contribute to any conversation.
(Read our tips on how to be a good conversationalist.)
Get out of Your Comfort Zone
Try new things to meet new people. Purposely put yourself in social situations, and don’t be afraid to talk to people you don’t know. The more you do it, the easier it will become.
Try making the first move! Other people may feel as shy and self-conscious as you are, so take the initiative and start a conversation. Develop the self-confidence that you have something to offer others, and they will be interested in getting to know you.
If you need a boost of confidence, try repeating affirmations for confidence. Remember that everyone is trying to make friends just like you.
Join a Club or Group That Interests You
Look for clubs or groups related to your hobbies or interests, such as a book club or photography society, to meet like-minded people with common interests. Group activities can be less intimidating than one-on-one interactions and help you gradually get to know people in a more structured setting. When there’s a new person in the group, be the first to say hello.
Talk to People You Meet in Everyday Situations
Potential friends are everywhere. You never know who you might meet and click with. So, talk to people you meet in everyday situations, such as at work or school. You might be surprised at how easy it is to make new friendships this way. And even if you don’t make a new friend, you’ll build the experience and confidence to keep trying.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and make friends while doing something good for your community. When you experience a shared sense of purpose with other volunteers, it’s easier to get to know each other and foster meaningful relationships.
Befriend a Family Member or Neighbor
You don’t have to look far for potential friends. Befriending a family member or neighbor can be an easy way to grow your network. This can be especially true if they share common interests or hobbies. Plus, staying in touch with them can be easier since you already have a connection and history.
Ask for Introductions From Friends
If you already have a few friends, it can be helpful to ask them for introductions. They know you well and may know people who would make great additions to your circle of friends.
Reach out to Former Friends
If you’ve lost touch with a former friend, reach out to them! It can feel intimidating, but most people welcome the opportunity to reconnect with an old friend and would be happy to hear from you.
Create an Online Presence
An online presence can be a great way to make friends as an introvert. You can create a profile on social media, join an online forum, or start a blog. When you share your ideas and opinions online, you can reach a larger audience and attract people with similar interests. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your communication skills.
Be Patient
Making friends takes time. So be patient and don’t give up if you don’t make new friends immediately. Don’t drain yourself too fast; otherwise, you’ll likely end up feeling overwhelmed and may want to give up.
Remember to take time for yourself to recharge so that you’re energized for your next outing.
How to Keep Friendships as an Introvert
Introverts may have difficulty maintaining friendships because they require alone time to rejuvenate.
Try to balance your need for alone time and spending quality time with friends.
Here are our tips to help you keep your friendships:
Be Yourself
The most important thing is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. People will like you for who you are. So relax and be yourself! When you’re not, your true colors won’t shine, and you won’t be able to make meaningful connections. You’ll also drain yourself faster with the added effort.
Don’t Overthink
Don’t overthink it. Don’t spend too much time analyzing conversations or worrying about saying the wrong thing. Nobody is ever as hard on you as you are. Focus on the moment and enjoy your time with friends.
Make Time for Your Friends
It’s essential to make time for your friends. Schedule time to catch up with them or invite them for a fun activity. But also be flexible and make yourself available if they need you.
Stay Connected
Keep in touch with them even when you’re not hanging out with each other. Whether sending a text, calling, or video chatting, staying connected with your friends will help you cultivate strong relationships.
Show You Care
Listen attentively when they’re talking. Ask follow-up questions to show you care about what they have to say.
Support them during tough times. Be there for them when they need you. A very thoughtful way to show you care is to reach out on the anniversary of the death of a loved one. You don’t have to say much – you know it’s a tough day for them, so let them know you’re there for them if they need to talk.
Also, help them celebrate their special occasions and any small wins they have! This shows that you’re paying attention to their life and care about what’s happening with them. Remember to send sincere birthday wishes when their special day comes around – it’s a simple yet meaningful gesture that demonstrates your thoughtfulness.
Express Gratitude
Every so often, let them know you appreciate them and that they are one of your reasons to be happy. It’s one of the simplest yet most meaningful things you can do.
Set Boundaries
It’s okay to say no to plans if you’re not up for it. You don’t have to do everything your friends want you to do. It’s okay to do your own thing sometimes. Spending time alone is necessary for introverts, so don’t feel guilty!
However, don’t always decline their invitations. If you do it too often, they may start feeling like you don’t want to spend time with them. Plan activities that you both enjoy so that you can have a great time without feeling drained afterward.
Final Thoughts
Making friends as an introvert can be tough, but it’s doable and definitely worth it. With a little effort, you can build strong, lasting friendships! Remember to be yourself, make time for your friends, and show them you care. Don’t be afraid to say no if you need some time alone.
And, above all, practice patience. Making new friends takes time, but you’ll eventually get there. You’ll meet those who enrich your life and understand and accept you for who you are.
Do Happy: Daily Happier Habits App
Staying in touch with your friends is integral to keeping them, but it can sometimes be challenging. There’s an app that can help with this!
With the Do Happy App, you can remember all the important dates and details about your friends that make them special to you. The app sends reminders of your friends’ birthdays and special occasions, so you reach out when it’s important.
The app also has a rotating relationship maintenance task that encourages you to contact your friends and loved ones on a weekly rotating basis. This helps you keep in touch even when life gets busy.
You can also use the app to record happy moments with your friends, which you can look back on and cherish later.
In short, if you want to ensure you stay in touch with your friends, the Do Happy App is exactly what you need!
Download the Do Happy App and start building stronger friendships today!