Are you dating an introvert?

Did you know that introverts make up 16-50% of the population?

If you don’t identify as an introvert yourself, you likely know at least one person who leans more toward introversion. Introverts are easily misunderstood, and often feel that they just can’t fit in with others due to their intense need to recharge in solitude after social situations. Dating an introvert can seem a bit baffling and overwhelming at times because they approach life much differently, but as long as you go into it with an open mind and know what to expect, a relationship with an introvert can be very rewarding.

Here are 15 things to expect when dating an introvert:

1. They don’t do well with small talk.

Introverts would rather just skip the introductions and subtle banter, and get straight to the good stuff. What are your fears? Passions? Deepest secrets? Thoughts about the afterlife? Do you believe in aliens? What about karma? They want to get to the nitty-gritty of who you are, why you do the things you do, and what makes you feel the most alive. They crave depth and conversations that really make them think.

2. Introverts need lots of alone time to recharge their batteries.

They really don’t mean to hide away and forget about the world, but at the same time, they just require some time to decompress and boost their energy levels. Unlike extroverts, introverts acquire their energy from spending time alone, so allow them their space in order to balance their energies and contemplate themselves and life. Introverts speculate a lot, which gives them their depth and mysterious nature.

3. An introvert will get to know you on a profoundly deep level.

Going back to point #1, introverts will open you up to topics and ideas that you would have never dreamed of discussing. Introverts have a whole world inside them that they’re just dying to share with others, so consider yourself lucky if you get to know an introvert on this level.

4. They may not always say what’s on their mind.

Sometimes, they would rather keep things to themselves. Especially if something is bothering them. Introverts often lock their feelings away, because sharing them makes them feel too vulnerable. Be patient with an introvert, and just offer your love and support. They will come around eventually, as long as you make them feel safe.

5. Introverts really do love people, but it takes a while for them to feel comfortable opening up.

It’s a slow burn with introverts..you light the fuse, but it takes a while for the fire to start. Frankly, they don’t excel in conversing with people. It doesn’t come naturally to them, so just be patient. They have a lot to offer, but they’re very much used to people giving up on them or not giving them the mental stimulation they need. They want to get to know you, but may not always have the right words to say.

6. They are highly creative, artistic people with a knack for seeing the beauty in everything.

Introverts usually thrive in the realm of art and music. They see the world through a different lens, and find that their world makes a lot more sense. So, they bring this inner universe to life through their written words, paintings, music, or other forms of art.

7. An introvert will shower you with love and affection.

They may not speak as eloquently as extroverts, but they undoubtedly show their love through their actions. When they can’t think of anything to say, they offer kind gestures and affection to their partner, because as the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words.”

8. They feel everything deeply.

Introverts spend a lot of time in their own heads, analyzing situations, getting a feel for the world around them, and mulling over their own feelings. As a result, they feel everything a million times more than their extroverted counterparts. Thus, dating an introvert offers its advantages and drawbacks. However,  just keep in mind that they are much more sensitive to your words and actions.

9. An introvert prefers a small group of friends over a big crowd of people.

They would rather spend time with a close-knit group of people than a big room full of acquaintances. After a party, it’s pretty much a given that an introvert will retreat into their room for some quiet time and relaxation.

10. They have a high level of self-awareness.

Because they spend so much time analyzing themselves, they are constantly in tune with their feelings. They know the ins and outs of themselves, but their contemplative nature means they will never stop exploring their inner selves.

11. Introverts will give you unconditional support when you need it most.

Introverts, by nature, are loving, compassionate, supportive beings. They know what it’s like to be misunderstood and feel like an outcast, so they don’t want anyone else to feel this way. If you have a goal or just need help with something, they will never leave your side.

12. An introvert sometimes wants to spend all day in bed, away from the hustle and bustle.

Sometimes, spending time alone for an introvert means laying in bed all day hiding from the world. At times, they can feel very overwhelmed by our fast-paced society, and need ample time to regroup and regain their energy.

13. They sometimes have a hard time getting out of their comfort zone.

Introverts take a while to warm up to new situations. Help them feel more comfortable by simply offering your support; you will forever gain an introvert’s trust by doing this.

14. Introverts have so much passion inside them, but often don’t know how to express it.

Like we’ve said before, introverts have a whole world living inside them, but they don’t always show it to others.

15. They may come off as rude or standoffish, but they just take a while to warm up.

They really don’t mean to seem aloof and distant from others; their layers just take some time to peel back. However, once they do open up to you, they will offer some of the best conversations you’ve ever had.

Are you in a relationship with or dating an introvert? Add to the discussion below: