12 Introvert Problems You Might Relate To

While introverts' experiences may be similar, we all suffer in the way we deal with them. Here are 12 things an introvert might find difficult.

1. Being told not to be shy

Throughout our life, introverts will often hear people tell us to stop being shy, thus resulting in associating shyness with weakness. People tend to confuse the two, even though there's nothing wrong with shyness. Discovering introversion helps us rationalize how we feel, making it easier for us to move around in social situations. Still, most introverts will avoid explaining their introversion to someone they just met, in hopes of stopping the "don't be shy" comments altogether.

2. Writing formal emails

This can be a prime source of anxiety for introverts. There will be at least three sessions of drafting, revising, and editing alone before they feel comfortable enough to press send. And even then, we are not safe from...

3. Overthinking little things

This translates mostly to face-to-face interactions, as we have little to no time to prepare for what we're going to say. We fear we'll make a mistake or spill something we shouldn't. Furthermore, a single phrase during the conversation can plague our minds for the rest of the day, even if the other person didn't think much of it. Not to mention...

4. Reasoning doesn't make it better

This goes along with face-to-face interactions. It's a very distressing experience for introverts, even if it seems minor. Sometimes, we're even aware how minor it is, and that the other person has probably forgotten about it already. This doesn't stop the dark clouds looming above us, telling us we did wrong. Boom.

5. The idea of social engagement

There's going to be a big gathering or work setting. Introvert dreads. We need time to prepare mentally. For this reason, it's important for us to be informed about the time and place of the party, as well as the number of people attending. Make it the least vague possible, and you'll be sure to lessen an introvert's anxiety.

6. Cancelled plans

Trust us when we say we had already accepted the fact that we were going to attend a social gathering. We can't help the anxiety we feel the days prior to it, though. Hearing about cancelled plans is an introvert's joy, since it's a release from the needless anxiety.

7. Navigating social events

Sometimes, we aren't so lucky as to have plans cancelled, and upon arriving to a social event, we'll do our best to get the greetings over with, so we can find a secluded corner in which we can spend time observing rather than participating. It doesn't mean we're alone, though. It means we want to stay with people we trust won't force us out of our comfort zone.

8. Sadly, it doesn't always work out

Maybe we don't find the people we're most comfortable with at the event, and any attempt at making conversation results in us getting pushed further aside. If we fail, this can take a toll on introverts and exhaust them within seconds. This leads us to...

9. Attempting and failing a conversation

When we are discouraged from speaking because we tried and weren't heard, we'll often be left blaming ourselves for even trying.

10. Bad days

On particularly bad days, it's hard for an introvert to find motivation to speak to anyone. This might be difficult to understand, and even cause friction between an introvert and their friends.

11. Restlessness and self-disgust

During our bad days, we look for ways to channel our dissatisfaction with ourselves, either by cleaning or being creative. We don't really want to talk to anyone yet, but we need a sign of reassurance. We simply look to distract ourselves.

12. Being misunderstood

Introverts are often misunderstood by others, who may perceive us as aloof, rude, or boring. We may struggle to express ourselves or make small talk, which can lead to awkwardness or isolation. We may also feel pressured to conform to social norms that don't suit us, such as being outgoing, loud, or cheerful. We wish people would accept us for who we are, and appreciate our unique strengths and qualities.

2018 @Psych2go, "12 Introvert Problems You Might Relate To" @ YouTube-Psych2Go, CC BY 3.0.