Here’s what I do to connect more socially without overwhelming or exhausting myself as an introvert.
Yes, introverts like to be alone. In fact, being alone is one basic part of the introverted lifestyle. However, this does not mean that we introverts are immune to loneliness. Actually it is very it is common for introverts to socialize after spending too much time alone. However, the way introverts deal with loneliness differs from extroverts.
For example, an extrovert might go to a loud bar and talk to strangers, or plan a get-together with 15 of their closest friends when they feel lonely. Introverts, on the other hand, take a different approach. Because while the idea of going to a loud party, bar, or concert might seem like a foolproof way to combat loneliness, these types of activities just don’t do the trick for us introverts. Instead, many introverts can attest to the feeling even more so isolated when standing in a loud room full of strangers.
If you’re an introvert like me, you might struggle to find ways to connect more socially without overwhelming or exhausting your mind. But instead of looking for crowds, I suggest they follow you introvert friendly activities that leave you feeling relaxed, youthful and satisfied. If you’re not quite sure what that entails, I’ve listed some of my go-to activities when I’m feeling too isolated.
6 ways to feel less lonely as an introvert
1. Start (and finish) a new project.
Many of my extroverted friends and family admire the fact that I not only start projects, but also finish them. But for an introvert like me, a new project is the perfect source of energy and deep work is our secret weapon. Plus, starting and finishing something gives me that sense of satisfaction I need from time to time to boost my morale.
The project can be anything, big or small. I’ve found that the most enjoyable projects are those that mean something, like making a recent album. individual travel or painting a new frame for my home office. But the project could also be something you’ve been putting off, like assembling an IKEA purchase or finally deep cleaning the bathroom (many introverts love a messy environment). Regardless, finding ways to keep yourself busy in the comfort of your own home can help you feel successful and energized.
2. Call or visit a trusted friend.
Introverts are people who prefer the company of those they trust. Shallow socialization (for example making chat at a dinner party) won’t make us feel better. In fact, it usually has the opposite effect.
Instead, when I feel lonely, I reach out to a trusted friend who I know is willing to engage in a deep and spiritually stimulating conversation. I try to meet my friend in person if I can. But most of the time a phone is enough – although I know many introverts don’t like the phone. I have a few people that I can have open and real conversations with, and that one-on-one time means more to me than 10 conversations with 10 different people at a bar.
3. Take a walk.
Many introverts are drawn to the outdoors. I personally always found it there is something extremely comforting about being in natureand I’m noticeably more at peace with myself on the days I get to spend significant time outside. Researchalso found that it is good for our health.
That’s why if I’m feeling lonely or down, a walk can drastically lift my mood. What I like most about walking is that you can do it anywhere: in the countryside, through the cityalong the water etc. No matter where you are, there is always room for walks.
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4. Listen to an informative podcast.
We’ve moved from the YouTube era to the podcast era, which means there are tons of podcasts out there these days. And in between music can calm my introverted mindI often find that podcasts are a bit more engaging because of the stories they tell.
Introverts are excellent listenersand listening to others speak on an informational topic is captivating. So, in addition to entertainment, podcasts allow me to learn more about a new topic of interest or digest other people’s opinions on a current event without feeling pressured to jump in and comment. I think listening to podcasts is similar to eavesdropping on an interesting conversation (except more socially acceptable). No matter how you look at it, tuning in to a podcast is a surefire way to make you feel less isolated if you’re an introvert who’s feeling unusually lonely.
5. Take up a hobby.
Since introverts are very comfortable being alonewe are the type of people who thrive on pursuing hobbies and keeping up. For me, writing and cooking are my favorite hobbies (which is approx “culinary therapy”). Both activities are comforting because they come naturally to me and I can do them alone.
There are countless other individual hobbies that you can take your mind off, including learning a new craft or teach yourself to play an instrument. Regardless of what you choose, these little hobbies are what we introverts need when we’re feeling lonely—but not ready to face the outside world.
6. Practice at home (or without others joining you virtually).
Similarly, to walk, to move in any capacity it helps alleviate any overthinking I experience as an introvert. However, remember that you don’t have to become a hardcore athlete. Anything that moves you can do the trick. In fact, one of my favorite exercises is yoga. Stretching and deep breathing are ideal for calming the anxiety lurking in my mind, and I often feel refreshed afterwards.
Since I have always prioritized physical activity, I forced myself to go to the gym. But the noise of the other weightlifters and the loud group workouts wore me out for an introverted introvert like me. And despite wearing headphones, I also had to deal with awkward interactions and other gym members.
I now stream training videos from a digital platform. Participating in a home workout video makes me feel like I’m not leaving the conversation. I can do the training at my own pace, while gaining the experience of a professional instructor. Watching an instructor lead a group and talk to me through the screen makes me feel like I’m a part of something without having to deal with large crowds, which is beneficial for an introvert.
Introverts may thrive on being alone, but that doesn’t make them immune to loneliness
So while we introverts thrive on our own, we’re not immune to loneliness. But how we overcome loneliness is different from how an extrovert gets too close alone time. We need to rely on methods like walks, hobbies, and podcasts that fit into our low-stimulus environment if we want to resolve feelings of isolation without overwhelming and exhausting ourselves. So whatever it is for you, I encourage you to do it find the right solution if you feel lonely. 
They are introverts, what to do you do when you feel lonely I’d love to hear it in the comments below!
