How to be a happier introvert

When it comes to personality types, there are introverts, extroverts and ambiverts (those who exhibit qualities of both).

While there’s no right or wrong way to be, knowing your personality type can be beneficial in many ways, such as improving your self-awareness, communication, career development and personal growth. The popular Myers-Briggs test is one common way to gauge where you might stand.¹

One 2014 study asked a group of introverts and extroverts to report their recollection of how they felt during various activities. The report found that, overall, extroverts, the outgoing type, equated to higher levels of happiness than introverts, the more inward type.²

Other research has argued that extroverts are happier because they have a more responsive dopamine-driven ‘pleasure system’ in their brains, possibly making them more motivated and inclined to be social.³

But this doesn’t mean introverts aren’t happy. While extroverts tend to draw more happiness from group activities, for introverts it’s often about finding the right balance and activities.

Let’s look at some ways to lead a happier introverted life.

An introvert is someone who tends to be more inwardly focused, the deep thinker of the bunch. They often prefer spending time alone or with a small group of close friends or family rather than large groups. It’s thought that between one-third to one-half of the population are introverts.⁴

Introverts often feel energised by solitary activities like reading, writing or reflection. They might be more reserved in the way they communicate, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they are shy, anti-social or lacking in confidence.

While introverts may enjoy social interaction, they often need time alone to recharge their batteries after being around others.

Research shows that everyone gets tired from socialising, even extroverts.⁵ However, for introverts too much socialising can cause ‘introvert burnout’, which may result in concentration problems, irritability and distractibility.⁶

So, it may be important for you to honour your solitary time by creating boundaries with family and friends, so they know that you need time alone to be your best self.

And never apologise for needing alone time or not being as social as others. Embrace your introverted nature and recognise the strengths it brings.

Being an introvert might not mean you don't like socialising.

However, an introvert may find that certain activities, like loud and busy social gatherings, drain their energy more than others.

So, instead of forcing yourself to attend every party or event, look at other social options that may be just as communal but less overwhelming, like a yoga class or intimate dinner party.

While it can be important to have extroverts in your life, you may find as an introvert that you have more in common with other introverts.

Introverts tend to prefer deep, meaningful relationships over a large, gathering-based ones. Introverts know all too well how to spend time alone, but it’s also important to have social interaction.

So, seek out like-minded people who understand and appreciate your introverted nature and are eager to share in activities that suit your mutual needs.

Introverts tend to be introspective and reflective. Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation, journalling and positive affirmations can help you become more self-aware and improve your overall wellbeing.

Many introverts enjoy creative pursuits, such as writing, painting or playing an instrument. Finding a creative outlet can be a great way to express yourself and recharge your batteries.

Spending time in nature can be very therapeutic for introverts. So, take a walk in the park or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the scenery.

Practising self-care is important for everyone, including introverts who may be more sensitive to overstimulation. So, make sure you get enough rest, eat well and engage in activities that make you happy.

As an introvert, learning to say ‘no’ to people and events may help you manage your wellbeing and get more out of your life.

So, setting boundaries and respecting your need to spend time alone can help you maintain your energy and avoid burnout.