Feeling stressed? Why don’t you grab some friends and head out on the town? See a live concert? If any or all of these suggestions provoke some anxiety or a strong reaction of “nope,” you might identify as an introvert. Just like extroverts we feel overwhelmed from time to time, but the best ways of soothing our stressed-out souls may be very, very different.
It’s not that introverts dislike being around people, but when it comes to where we feel most safe and comfortable, it is usually in our own company. In times of stress, some traditional pieces of advice to be around people or open up widely about how we are feeling just doesn’t resonate. That is why introverts may need their own guidelines on how to manage times of tension.
1. Spend Time in Your Sanctuary Space
If there is one thing I’ve found most introverts to have in common it is having a space that feels like sanctuary. A niche where someone feels completely at home. This may be somewhere in your home or a special spot elsewhere in the world, but it is important for every person to have an identified spot where they can retreat and feel at peace. If your environment isn’t entirely conducive, even putting in headphones with your favorite music can create a space for healing to take place.
2. Communicate When You Need Time Alone
If we are fortunate enough to have caring people in our lives who reach out when we are struggling we can sometimes find ourselves in a pickle. We may prefer time by ourselves instead of going out for coffee with our supportive friend. Finding a way to communicate this need, while also being grateful for the outreach, is vital to our mental wellbeing. The alternative is feeling even more stressed out. Despite how it may feel, it doesn’t make us a bad or unappreciative friend to decline an offer.
