How to Become an Introvert If You Are an Extrovert

Extroversion is a natural and healthy personality trait. However, an extrovert can enhance this trait through the practice of self-reflection. If you're an extrovert, you may not realize how the rich inner life of introversion can benefit both you and your loved ones. In fact, you can learn to enjoy the tranquility and social connections that will nurture your personal growth.

Don’t confuse introversion with shyness. A shy person typically wants to engage socially but feels anxious and unable to. An introvert, however, chooses to avoid social interactions at times, preferring to recharge their mental energy (or ‘recharge’) by spending time alone.

Remember that most people are not entirely extroverted or introverted. The renowned psychologist Carl Jung, who coined the terms "extroversion" and "introversion", argued that a typical person is not fully extroverted or introverted.

• In reality, most people exhibit both extroverted and introverted traits, but usually lean more toward one side.

Consider the benefits of balancing extroversion and introversion. Generally, those who exhibit emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are those who balance both introverted and extroverted traits.

• For example, if we desire a peaceful life and are aware of our introverted nature, embracing new risks and embarking on adventures, which include interacting with different groups of people, can enrich our lives in unique and exciting ways.
• Similarly, for extroverts, even those who enjoy "partying" can still benefit from taking time to reflect, taking walks, or committing to reading for 15 minutes a day.

Write a journal. While extroverts tend to focus on the external world, introverts are often absorbed in their inner world. One way to shift focus is by journaling; you could set a daily journaling goal. Ask yourself questions like:

• How did I feel? Why?
• What did I learn today? Who did I learn from?
• What ideas popped into my head? Who did I think about today?
• How is today different from yesterday? Compared to last week? Last year?
• What am I grateful for? Who seems lonely in my world? Why?

Foster your own creativity. Imagination and ideas stem from observing the outside world. The more you observe, the better you’ll be at creating connections between concepts that may not naturally align.

• When you are alone, what catches your attention? What impression does the world around you leave on you? Creativity might be considered as 'just focusing on oneself', but it still observes the surrounding environment.
• Write a short fantasy story
• Create art – painting, sculpture, sketches, etc.
• Use an art journal
• Compose music
• Write poetry

Enjoy activities that you can do alone. These activities help you practice patience, reduce stress, and eliminate the boredom that may arise when you "have to" be alone. Here are some ideas:

• Reading books and magazines
• Knitting, crocheting
• Programming
• Listening to music alone
• Playing a musical instrument
• Taking a walk or hiking by yourself

Increase self-awareness. Whether this means connecting with a higher power, practicing meditation, or simply dedicating time during your day to explore new ideas, any shift or enhancement in your perception will nurture your inner life.

• Practicing mindfulness and meditation can also benefit us. Contemplating the mysteries of science (such as the universe, quantum theory) contributes to strengthening our inner experience.

Patience. Sometimes, stillness and introspection can seem "boring" to an extrovert because you’re accustomed to gaining energy from external stimuli. Think of learning to appreciate solitude as akin to starting a new sport that you're unfamiliar with. At first, it might feel clumsy and dull, but once you become proficient, you'll begin to enjoy the joy it brings.

• Remember, introversion isn't a mountain waiting for someone else to climb. In fact, most introverts use 'alone time' to recharge. Solitude can be an effective way to replenish energy after investing too much effort in social interactions or with an extroverted person.

• As an extrovert, deciding to spend some quiet time alone will enrich your life, adding depth and fulfillment.
• Always be yourself. Both introverts and extroverts should admire and complement each other, without envy. As long as we treat each other well, there will always be ample opportunities for both to shine in this world.
• If you're a natural extrovert, don't try to change yourself into an introvert just because you think that personality type is great – it's a misguided idea. What's important is to live true to yourself rather than pretending. However, you can always take a break from socializing whenever you need time to reflect on your own.