Let’s face it: socializing can feel like a Herculean task for us introverts. The thought of mingling with a crowd can send us into a spiral of anxiety faster than you can say “awkward small talk.” But fear not! With a few practical tips and a sprinkle of humor, you can navigate the social scene without sacrificing your sanity—or your beloved Netflix binge-watching sessions.

Prep like you’re going into battle: Before any social event, clear your schedule for some sweet, sweet alone time. It’s like carbo-loading, but for your soul. I usually like to do this a full day in advance, nice hot shower, five minutes listening to your favorite songs, any and every little bit helps.

Have an escape plan: Know where the exits are, and don’t be afraid to use them. A quick “bathroom break” can be your secret weapon for recharging mid-event. I’ve been known to dip into a bedroom and pet a cat. I find their purrs ground me.

Quality over quantity, people: Choose events that actually interest you. Life’s too short for small talk about the weather with Karen from accounting. You don’t have to go to everything you’re invited to and you shouldnt be made to feel bad about prioritizing your sanity over a meal and a show or something.

Bring your extrovert shield: Got a chatty friend? Use them as your social buffer. They get to talk, you get to nod and smile. Win-win. Lol most of the time I’m the chatty one because I ramble when I’m anxious. I hate that about me

Embrace the power of curiosity: People love talking about themselves. Ask questions and let them do the heavy lifting in the conversation. I could be an interrogator when I meet new people and even moreso if its new people talking about something thats new to me.

Small groups are your friend: Intimate gatherings mean deeper conversations and less energy drain. Plus, easier escape routes. Make sure at least one person knows when you are overwhelmed you need help

Recharge like it’s your job: After socializing, indulge in your favorite introvert activities. It’s not lazy, it’s self-care. I like to reward myself with chocolate or something when I have to go out into the world.

Digital socializing counts: Sometimes, a good text conversation is all the human interaction you need. Thank goodness for this rule since I talk to people like vocally lol sometimes I forget what I sound like.

Let extroverts be your social curators: Have an outgoing friend? Let them pick the events worth attending. It’s like having a personal social secretary, or a blocker for a quarterback if thats an easier reference for you.

Reframe small talk as a mission: Approach conversations like you’re a secret agent trying to uncover interesting facts. It makes boring chats way more fun. Ok thats silly but I do in my mind make myself pass little tests or like ‘if I get this and this done, I can do nothing tomorrow’.

Remember, being an introvert doesn’t mean you’re broken, it just means you process the world differently. So go forth and socialize… in small doses, with plenty of Netflix breaks in between! Til next time guys. Take care of yourself and each other.