The Holiday Survival Guide for Introverts

Tips for Dealing with the Holidays

 

The holiday season is here. Your days during the holiday season are probably busy, filled with parties, shopping and more. Unfortunately, if you’re an introvert, the holiday season can be filled with stress due to all of the hustle and bustle. If this sounds like you these tips can help you survive the holiday season.

 

Go with a Friend

If you’ve been invited to a holiday party that you absolutely have to attend, bring a friend is a great way to feel more comfortable. A lot of times, it can be difficult for introverts to join in conversations at parties, especially when there are some unfamiliar faces. By bringing a friend, you’ll already have a person you feel comfortable talking to.

 

Plan Some “Me” Time

All of the social events during the holiday season can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for introverts. If you know that you will be socializing more often than normal during the holidays, be prepared to give yourself some “me” time. Block off a chunk of time in your schedule so that you can be alone. During this time, do anything that you enjoy, such as reading a book, watching a movie, or listening to music.

 

Say a Quick Hello

Just because you feel like you need to attend a holiday party doesn’t mean you have to stay the entire time. Don’t be afraid to go to a party, say a quick hello, and leave if you feel overwhelmed. Once you have been seen and have greeted your friends or co-workers, it’s ok to make your excuses and head out. If you are planning to leave early, be sure to have your excuse ready so that everyone knows why you need to leave.

 

Don’t Overbook

If you’ve been invited to multiple holiday events, you don’t have to say yes to every one of them. Instead, pick and choose which parties you would like to attend so that you don’t overbook yourself. If you’re overbooked, you’re more like to be stressed because you won’t have your “me” time.

 

Learn how to Deal with Small Talk

Introverts hate small talk. I know I do. Here is a secret way to keep the attention off you during conversation. Simply ask questions about the other person. People love to talk about themselves. Stick with open-ended questions (come up with a few go-t0 questions ahead of time,) so the other person ends up carrying the conversation. You may discover something about the other person that you will relate to which may open up an opportunity for a deeper conversation.

 

Seek Out the Extroverts

Expand on that last one a little by actively seeking out your complete opposite. Stick with extroverts and they will carry the conversation and totally appreciate how good of a listener you are.

 

 

Although you might not feel as comfortable as when you are sitting at home with a blanket and a book during your holiday events, I hope these tips can help you feel a little more at ease.

 

What are your best survival tips for the holidays?