Do introverts really have friends? On the eve of Friendship Day, quashing some myths about introverts and friendship here…
Introverts are those people who do not talk much and are happy in their own company. They do not have too many friends like an extrovert. They may have just a handful of friends but an introverted way of friendship is super-special. Introverts consider each friend as an asset. A pricey possession.
As an introvert, we often come across extrovert people who refer to us as “that silent friend”. Introverts usually don’t pay any heed to them. We are inwardly focussed and feel unapologetic about it.
If a tag of “silent friend” or “calm and quiet buddy” still hurts, that means you are not yet comfortable in your introverted skin. Know your silent nature, you will stop bothering about any random remark. Thereafter, you will laugh hard at those remarks.
As of now, I am going to clear up 6 common confusions or myths related to introverts and friendship.
Myth 1: Friendship with introverts is not easy
Fact: Introverts are certainly closed off in front of strangers. We take our own sweet time to build a rapport with strangers or unknown people. By and by, we know and understand them better. Then, they can see our easy-going nature. Introvert friends share a deep bonding with zero demand. It compels people to remember their camaraderie for a pretty long time.
Myth 2: Introverts can be friends with introverts only
Fact: There is a saying ‘Opposites attract’. We have mutual respect for each other. Extroverts are naturally drawn towards us. They find an expert listener in an introvert. On the other hand, we appreciate extroverts’ ability to initiate conversation. Sooner or later, it turns out to be a good pairing of a fine orator and a patient listener.
Myth 3: Introverts don’t socialize with their friends
Fact: We have limited social energy. Hence, we are extra careful about where and on whom we are spending that energy. Moreover, we cannot interact in a large group. We feel some kind of physical and mental exhaustion amidst chaotic overlapping conversations. For this reason, in most social gatherings, we either observe the happy crowd from a quiet corner or engage ourselves in simple one-on-one conversation. It preserves our energy.
Myth 4: You cannot have fun with introvert friends
Fact: We rarely enjoy noisy parties. Neither do we get into small talks. It’s a complete waste of time for us. So, we crave for solitude even in crowded places filled with hustle-bustle. We like to invest time in more interesting activities than talking. If you have interest in non-noisy recreational activities (gardening, fishing, hiking, etc.) along with some light-hearted, meaningful conversations, you can join us and have fun!
Myth 5: Introverts judge their friends a lot
Fact: We are lost in our own world so much so that we hardly bother to judge others. Observing people from a distance and studying their behaviour is like a hobby for many of your introvert friends. They never do it with any ulterior motive to criticise others. There is no gossip behind it. An introverted mind in reflective mode is always inclined towards positivity. Therefore, the intention behind watching a friend from close quarters is to capture subtle non-verbal cues. It is a key to develop better understanding and nurture a stronger interpersonal relationship.
Myth 6: Introvert friends can be toxic with silent treatment
Fact: We are too sensitive and emotional to pull down or hurt someone with any malicious intent. Being an introvert, we struggle on a daily basis to navigate through varied complex emotions. We are well aware of how bad it feels when someone offends you. So, giving silent treatment is out of the question. For us, not talking to people means we need some quiet moments and are trying to find comfort in silence.
CONCLUSION: Introverts are not as friendly as extroverts. True, but we value each and every friend that we have and never let them down.
