8 clear signs that you are more introverted than you might think

I had another dinner with people I don't know well and after a few hours of talking, I was, to put it mildly, dead tired. Just exhausted from trying to be fun. Being social isn't always easy and it has everything to do with whether you're introverted or extroverted.

Introverts recharge from being alone, extroverts from being with others. I think I absolutely have a bit of both worlds: I need time for myself in an ugly tracksuit on the couch and I need cool party vibes and fancy dinners with my girlfriends. Both. Being introverted doesn't just mean you like being alone, but also that you gain energy from moments of self-reflection and that social interactions, especially in large groups, can be exhausting. But these are the clearest signs that you are more introverted than you think:

– Need for alone time
You often feel drained after social moments, even if they were fun. It's enjoyable and you laugh and talk, but afterward, you feel a bit strange. Different. You need time to recharge by being alone and organizing your thoughts. Only after a few hours can you think clearly again. You also sleep worse after a busy social evening.

– Deep conversations
You prefer deep conversations with just one other person over superficial small talk. You feel more connected and at ease when conversations revolve around ideas, emotions, or personal experiences, preferably with just one of your best friends. Not vague acquaintances. You don't care much about meeting up with them. You'd rather be at home (with your kids).

– Selective social interactions
You have a small group of friends that you are really close to and feel comfortable with. You avoid large groups and don't feel the need for new friends.

– Preference for written communication
Sometimes you prefer to communicate via text rather than verbally. This gives you time to think about your responses and articulate your thoughts clearly.

– Reflective and introspective
You tend to think a lot about yourself, your emotions, and your experiences. You often find yourself in your head with self-reflection and analysis.

– Avoid conflict
You often avoid conflicts and confrontations and prefer harmony and peace in your environment.

– Quiet time
You enjoy quiet activities like reading, walking, drawing, or listening to music, where you can let your thoughts wander and relax. You want to be offline more often and easily put your phone away.

– Overstimulation
You are sensitive to overstimulation from too many external stimuli such as noise, crowds, or online messages that keep coming. This can lead to fatigue and the need to be alone: you can't keep up with everything and that's okay. It's good as you are.

Don't let yourself be driven crazy in this busy world where everything always has to be hip, cool, and exciting. Life is what you make of it and especially think of your own happiness. If you run too hard with the rest, you'll crash soon. Better to be that outspoken introvert sometimes, right? Nothing to be ashamed of.

Image:@eristheplanet