“You’re always in your shell, Phil. Why don’t you just come out and act normal?” 

These questions can be bothersome (on days when they are not annoying), especially when you are genuinely you! As an introvert, it is so easy to be misunderstood, and many times, you get caught up trying to meet up to “certain standards.” Some try to offer advice, ranging from relationship advice to psychology advice, all pursuing the notion that you are shy, weird, and boring. And most unfortunate is that you believe it! As long as you keep nursing this thought, you become trapped, and your hidden potential – those unique qualities that only you, as an introvert, have – will remain well-hidden. You have probably wished you could be more extroverted, but trust me, you are not true to yourself. It is possible to be fun, have good friends, and still be an introvert. And here’s how.

Understand who you are

You are an introvert. In simple terms, you are someone who naturally directs his/her energy inwards and is motivated by internal factors (Hence an introvert…get it?). So, you are not weird. Still thinking you want to be an extrovert? Get this, whatever an extrovert can do, and you can, but differently. And on some occasions, your way is the better way. For instance, you’re never the impulsive one, you don’t suffer from F.O.M.O, and you are the better listener! Come on; you have qualities that are needed out there. 

Go against the flow and Love it. 

Opposites attract. True. But you have to go against that flow. Maybe the reason you feel bad about your true self is that you think you are alone. One random survey showed that 50.7% of the United States’ general population are introverts. Besides, in the relationship between you and extroverts, communication problems and misunderstandings can be paramount, so that’s a good reason to look for other introverts. And an excellent place to start is on the internet. 

Help others understand you. 

As stated earlier, communication problems and misunderstandings can arrive. So here is relationship advice for you; Let people know that you’re an introvert. Tell them to their face, through social media, and any other way you can think of or, without using the term “introvert,” inform them using your preference and habits. And if they still see you as a weirdo, prove them wrong by simple things your way. Those annoying questions and labels will soon stop, and people will value you as a friend to never lose.

Being an introvert in your world is frustrating, but it will be frustrating to pretend to be someone else. So, be you. Know who you are. Get some psychological advice if necessary. You are not the only one; look for others like you. Search for some books about being an introvert. You’re the one to give relationship advice to your family and friends on how best to deal with you. They will accept you, and if they don’t, do your thing and watch them come back with amazement in their eyes. 

Do this and see if you are not an introvert while being through to yourself.