Do you know someone who needs to slip away to recharge batteries every so often?
It isn’t easy to understand others in this world. You may sit next to a lady at work and know nothing about her. Then on the other side of you may be a gentleman that you could tell his story as if you had written a book on his life.
The difference is one has an introverted personality, and the other has an extroverted one. How would you classify yourself? Do you tend to be outgoing and the life of the party or sit back and watch as life happens around you?
You will meet people every day who are either social or anti-social, according to the world’s perception. However, both types of individuals are just as valuable to society. You view people through your eyes and with your methods for doing things, and your expectations skew your opinion of others. Thankfully, everyone is unique.
Understanding the Differences Between Introverts and Extroverts
Personalities can be grouped into two categories. The extroverted person tends to be favored in society, and if someone isn’t a socializer, then they are considered abnormal. Those with an introverted personality may have a challenging time in school and the workforce, as they are commonly misinterpreted.
A teacher may write on their grade card that they don’t like to participate in class, or a boss might see them as quiet and disconnected. Being in a romantic relationship can be even more difficult. They may continuously field insinuations that they don’t love their partner or don’t communicate efficiently.
In life, the extrovert is often celebrated. They’re the ones that get the job promotions, have the best relationships, and are go-getters. The sad thing is that introverted personalities often are disregarded and very misunderstood.
Children are taught that they must speak up for themselves and be more assertive in life. When they go to college, they will get farther when they network and put themselves out there. An extrovert has no problem mingling with strangers and thrives during social events, while the introvert is often a bundle of nerves at the thought of a crowd.
Since an introverted personality doesn’t feel like they fit into the mainstream, they avoid social interactions. Their feelings make them question if there is something wrong with them. The energy from a large group can make an extrovert thrive, but the introvert feels drained and like they need to recharge their batteries.
12 Ways Introverts Can Recharge Their Batteries
Did you know that over one-third of the population is introverted? People look down on these folks because they are quiet and avoid gatherings. Sadly, these individuals often go through life being viewed through biased eyes.
In the continent of Asia, being an introvert is considered a high quality that is valued among the people. In the Western world, it’s the opposite. Anxiety is high among introverts because they continuously feel as if they can’t measure up to social norms.
All this pressure to fit into a world where they don’t fit causes them significant problems. These individuals need to recharge their batteries, and here are just a few ways to do it.
1. Meditation
Meditation has been around for more than 5,000 years. Introverts looking to recharge their batteries should look to this Chinese method first. When you’re meditating, you’re releasing anxiety and tension that harbors inside.
One of the biggest problems an introvert has is that they cannot articulate how they feel, and all their emotions become trapped inside. This ancient art is a great way to relax the mind, body, and soul. By visualizing and releasing pent up energy, it can be a very freeing experience.
2. Alone Time
Have you ever heard someone say that they wanted some alone time? Introverts love to go into space, close the door, and be alone with their thoughts. It’s a way to recharge their batteries by sitting in the quiet.
Remember, these people don’t always know how to vocalize how they are feeling, so they need a quiet space to reflect.
3. Go Where Nobody Knows You
When you feel introverted claustrophobia, you want to go somewhere where you won’t stand out in the crowd. Maybe you want to hear the noise around you, but you don’t want anyone to expect anything from you.
Some introverts love having people around, but they don’t want to interact with them. If you’re feeling a bit claustrophobic and can’t get any peace, then drive to another city where no one knows your name.
You will be surprised how much better you feel to mingle in an area where people don’t want to chit-chat.
4. Delve into a Good Book
Is it any wonder that the introvert usually loves a good adventure story? Books allow you to transport yourself to another time and place. You can live out an account through the character, and it doesn’t make you uncomfortable either.
Some people use books or movies to get over the loss of something near and dear to them. It’s an outlet that helps recharge your batteries and help you escape the stressors of life.
5. Engage in Mindful Distractions
To recharge your batteries and keep you from ruminating about things, engage in mindful distractions. Items such as crossword puzzles or coloring can help you to focus on something other than your feelings. You need these distractions to help you with your anxiety.
6. Take a Walk in Nature
One of the best things for you to do when you feel like you need to be alone is to take a walk. Did you know that walking barefoot on the earth it will help you feel grounded?
If you feel like your world is out of sorts, then taking your shoes off and feeling the ground beneath your toes can be beneficial. There’s something so calming and tranquil about the gentle breeze blowing against your face and the whistle of the birds in the distance.
If you feel like you need to be alone to stop the noise inside your head, Mother Nature can provide the relief you need.
7. Soak in a Hot Bath
For centuries, the value of a warm bath has not gone unnoticed. Roman bathhouses were used for public sanitation, and these bathhouses allowed people to socialize. The concept developed into the swimming pools of today.
An introvert won’t like the socialization of a public pool, but a hot bath can bring about the same effects. You can recharge your batteries while listening to soft music, sipping champagne, or relaxing in some delicate bubbles. It’s hard to feel stressed or out of sorts with life when you’re soaking your troubles away.
10. Take a Drive
Another way that introverts can get the peace and tranquility they crave is by taking a drive. There’s something almost euphoric about jumping behind the wheel of a car and blasting the radio. The best time to drive is down a country road when the sun is shining bright.
These little get-a-ways don’t cost hardly anything and can be just what you need to regroup and recharge.
11. Journal
Did you know that many people can’t express how they feel, but they can write it down? Just like so many people use text messages to break up with a lover. It’s easier to put things into writing than to vocalize them.
A journal can be written or on your computer. It’s just a place where you can collect your thoughts and get out of your feelings. It’s also a great way to be alone and has time to meditate on the day and your life.
12. Listen to a Podcast
Podcasts have become the best way to gain inspiration without leaving the comforts of home. Ted Talks, as well as The Moth, are two great places where you can find stories of people who have overcome insurmountable odds in front of them.
Introverts care and have hurts, but they don’t share with the world their pain. While listening to these short stories of how people have won against a great battle, it can help you with what you face.
Final Thoughts on Breaking Away to Recharge Batteries, as Needed
The things that work for extroverts won’t always work for an introvert. People watching, for instance, might make you more nervous. Additionally, going to a spa and having a massage, pedicure, or manicure might not be the ticket.
You can treat yourself to a gift for a job well done, but your idea of relaxation isn’t going to be going to a rock concert. The noise, crowd, and claustrophobic nature of the venue may be too much for you to handle.
You should lay your head on the pillow and know that you are uniquely you. While you may never become the director of a corporation or a politician, your contribution to society is significant.
The world would be a boring place to live if everyone were the same. Having a quiet and subservient personality is what many people are attracted too. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, you can still have a successful career, a beautiful family, and a life that many people desire.