Tips to get you out of your comfort zone, making new friends and socializing more.
If you’re an introvert you likely not only enjoy, but are quite satisfied spending time alone, and prefer to know a few people well than a lot of people not-so-well. And while we fully support having a few really-close friends, it is still important to have an active social life; meaning you need to interact with various people on a regular basis.
The benefits of an active social life are tremendous for your physical and mental health. So here are 6 steps to get you started.
- Engage in a social hobby. If you enjoy gardening, join a community garden. If you like music, visit local café’s featuring live musicians. Wherever your interests lie, there is a way to make it social. And by doing so, you have an instant conversation starter and an instant connection.
- Say yes more. Invited to a book club, birthday celebration or garden party? Accept the invite! Exposure can be the best remedy for getting over anxiousness. And once you are at the event you will be well prepared with the following advice.
- Recharge before you go. While extroverts become energized from social interactions, introverts need time alone in order to recharge. Take time to read, reflect, or meditate before going out. This way you will arrive at the gathering with the energy you need to make the most out of it.
- Take a break. Putting yourself out there in new situations or amongst larger groups of people can feel overwhelming. Seek out a quiet place that you can slip away to when you need a few moments to yourself.
- It’s okay to rephrase. If you are in the middle of a conversation and find yourself trailing off, paraphrasing is the way to go. It will show that you were listening and help keep the dialogue moving forward.
- Lend a hand. Out at a gathering where you don’t know many people? Instead of standing or sitting to the side, offer to help the host. Refreshing beverages, replenishing appetizers, tidying up, all of this will keep you busy, and offers the perfect opportunity to make small talk with the other guests.
Everyone benefits from strong, healthy relationships. And if you aren’t sure where or how to get started, let Amintro help. Designed exclusively for those 50 plus, we will connect you with like-minded people in your area online so that you can meet up with confidence in person.
Start living a more socially engaged life, you will be happier and healthier for it!
Join for free here or learn more about us, our community and how to become an Amintronian by following us on Twitter: @AmintroFriends, or liking us on Facebook: AmintroFriends.
By Christine Tompa
