7 Things to Remember If You Are Friends With an Introvert

Sometimes they don't feel like talking. Not all introverts are shy, quiet and reserved, they can be quite outgoing and talkative, especially when surrounded by people they feel comfortable with. However, sometimes they don't feel like talking, so don't try to make them do it. Take advantage of the fact that most introverts are damn good listeners instead. You should also keep in mind that introverts don't like small talk.

They prefer small groups to large crowds. Introverts can have a lot of fun, but they like hanging out with small groups of close friends. Large groups of unknown people overwhelm them. They like people, but they hate crowds.

They need time to recharge. For extroverts, communication is a kind of energy source that keeps them going; introverts, on the contrary, lose energy while socializing. Most introverts need alone time to recharge. If you hung out with you introvert friend yesterday, they might want to be alone today. They don't hate you, they are just tired of communication in general.

They typically don't like phone calls. Many introverts prefer texting and IMing to phone calls. If your friend is one of them, don't call them unless there is an emergency. Respect their right to hate talking on the phone and send them a text when you need to get in touch.

Introverts can't be converted into extroverts. Some extroverts try to “pull their introvert friends out of their shell”. But introverts can't change their nature and they hate being pushed to do it. Sometimes they wish they were extroverts, but they are who they are. Don't tell them “to live a little”; they can be spontaneous and fun when they want to, but they will certainly not appreciate you trying to make them do something they don't want to do.

If you are their friend, you are special. Introverts typically have less friends than extroverts because they don't like socializing as much. They don't lack social skills, they just don't like use them right and left. If an introvert considers you their friend, that means you are part of a close group of friends. This is something to be proud of.

Being an introvert is not what defines them. “Introvert” and “extrovert” are labels that put people in categories. Although knowing that your friend is an introvert can help you understand them better, they are a person first. Don't be swayed by stereotypes and take your friend for what they are.