The Introvert’s Guide to Small Talk

 

If small talk has got ya feeling all sorts of uncomfortable, I want to share some good news: you are far from alone. Typically, introverts find small talk more difficult. This is because being an introvert means you recharge your energy by being alone. It’s not that you don’t like being around other people, it’s just that social situations drain your internal battery. So, for an introvert, small talk with strangers is a little like running your iPhone on full brightness with 1,000 apps open at once while on LTE. That battery is gonna die really quick and when it does, everything gets about 10x more exhausting.

Coping with culture

We live in an extroverted culture, which assumes people are entitled to your time and energy. Some experts believe extroverts outnumber introverts 3:1, so if you often feel overwhelmed and surrounded, it’s because, well, you are.

So, let’s learn how to cope:  How to Turn Awkward Conversations into Meaningful Interactions.

I’m not here to teach you how to be more social. I’m here to help you survive questions like, “So what do you do for a living?” with more space and grace.

Come up with a list of things you would like to talk about.

 If talking about your job, where you live, and whether you are dating anyone sets your teeth on edge, then talk about weird facts, conspiracy theories, or the paranormal instead. Channel your inner politician and deflect and redirect until you are having the conversation you want to be having.

Figure out how you like to socialize.

 For example, I prefer activities to conversations. I’ll plate the food, play with the kids—you’ll often find me doing dishes to avoid chitchat. Bonus, cleaning up creates a nice exit strategy: Everything’s tidy; guess it’s time to wrap up!

Know your saturation limit.

Maybe two hours of hang time feels good, but four is depleting. It’s helpful to announce your time limit ahead of departing instead of taking everyone by surprise: If you say, “I’m only here for an hour” but change your mind, people are stoked you can stay longer versus the inevitable “You can’t leave yet!” protest.

Get a buddy. 

Have someone you can catch eyes with or mutter to under your breath. Just because introverts like our alone time doesn’t mean we want to feel lonely. Lean on your tried-and-true crew that gets what’s up and lets you be you.

Hold yourself to your standard.

 Be respectful and courteous. Don’t feel like you need to become an extrovert just because that’s what all the cool kids are doing.

Here’s wishing you your perfect blend of play and peace.

Source:  mudwtr.com