Do you ever come home from work or a party and feel mentally drained because you had to talk to SO MANY PEOPLE? Being in a room full of extroverted, talkative, and energetic people can be an exhausting experience for someone who is more introverted. If you are the latter, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. Here are 3 ways to overcome your anxiety and engage more easily:
Start small
When you’re with a group, are you unsure of what to say? You don’t have to take on the whole group at once.
Personally: Scope out the room and find one or two people to talk with. Introduce yourself and chat about something you’re passionate about. Take the focus off yourself; ask a question and really listen to their response.
Professionally: If you find yourself terrified to share your ideas at large meetings, then practice, practice, practice! Gather one or two trusted co-workers and present to them. Get their feedback. You’ll begin to feel more confident in your abilities, and speaking in front of everyone may not feel as daunting.
Don’t let people interrupt you
If you’re not used to speaking up, you’re easy prey for extroverts. If you say nothing and let them talk over you, they won’t notice that you were trying to talk and you will never get anywhere.
Personally: When you are with a group of friends who keep interrupting you, call them on it. They probably didn’t realize that they spoke over you. You’ll know who your true friends are by their reaction.
Professionally: Your colleagues are no exception to this rule. Speak up and say something like, “Those are all really valid points. I also have some thoughts.” Continue to remind anyone who interrupts you that it is your turn to speak.
Have realistic expectations
If you know that you get overwhelmed by a group of extroverts, don’t overdo it. There is nothing wrong with needing some time by yourself.
Personally: If you go to a party when you do not feel like being around people, you will just be in a bad mood all evening. Why put your friends and yourself through that? Skip the party and stay in for the night. The next time you get invited out, you’ll likely feel more inclined to socialize.
Professionally: Go to lunch by yourself if you need time to recharge. An hour away from the office could be just what you need to refuel and get ready to WOW your extroverted co-workers at the afternoon planning session.
