Navigating Holiday Parties for the Reserved: Tips and Tricks for Introverts
Nervous about socializing during the holiday season? As an introvert, the festive season can be a daunting prospect with all those large group gatherings. From office parties to family get-togethers and New Year's shindigs, it's easy to feel like you're in for a long slog — especially when you're not exactly a crowd-lover.
"It's a common misconception that introversion is the same as shyness or social anxiety," explains Tabitha Kirkland, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Washington. "But it's really about where you get your energy from."
Introversion and extroversion are opposite ends of a personality spectrum, and most people fall somewhere in between. Introverts generally find solitude rejuvenating, while extroverts thrive on social interaction and find themselves revitalized in a crowd.
So, here are some survival strategies for introverts during the holiday season:
1. Recharge Ahead
Every social interaction is like a drain on your energy reserves. Kirkland warns that introverts often start with a smaller energy budget than extroverts. So, if you've had a busy workday with meetings and presentations, you might be quaking in your boots by the time the party starts.
In an ideal world, you should schedule some me-time before the event. Use it to read, take a bath, or binge watch your favorite TV shows. The key is to feel relaxed and recharged before you step into the social fray.
On days when after-work events are unavoidable, Kirkland suggests scheduling less social activities during the workday to make room for some alone time.
2. Say Yes... When You Don't Feel Like It
It's tempting to avoid social events, but the only way to become more comfortable in large gatherings is to practice. In therapy terms, this is called "exposure." So, if you get invited to a big bash, say yes. But start with smaller gatherings to help prep you for the main event.
Remember, it's normal to have the urge to bail at the last minute. Try to resist that impulse. Over time, your brain will realize that these events and the people at them aren't threatening. You don't have to talk to everyone at the party; you just need to show up.
3. Set Ground Rules with Your Partner
Attending your partner's company party can be even more daunting than your own. But it doesn't have to be a nightmarish affair. Ask your partner to make introductions to a couple of friendly colleagues. Also, ask for periodic check-ins throughout the night.
If your partner is an extrovert, they might find it rude if you step away for a while. Explain ahead of time that you just need some alone time to recharge. Giving your partner a heads-up can help avoid misunderstandings and establish a signal for when you're ready to head home.
4. Take it Easy on the Booze
Having a drink or two might loosen you up and make chatting a bit easier, but too much can backfire. Kirkland warns that overindulging could make things worse and leave you with regret, remorse, or embarrassment. Her advice? Drink in moderation and know when it's time to take a break from socializing.
By implementing these strategies, you can put your best introverted foot forward this holiday season without feeling drained and anxious.
- To ensure a balanced lifestyle during the holiday season, it's important for introverts to participate in home-and-garden activities that can act as a refreshing break from social media and entertainment, helping to recharge their energy reserves.
- After the holiday celebrations, introverts can continue to engage with the world by sharing their experiences on social media, providing an opportunity to express themselves creatively, while also offering a sneak peek into their home-and-garden lifestyle.
