1. Have an open mind: The first rule, have an open mind and don’t judge people. Everybody has their own set of problems, and everyone is trying to figure them out, chances are even they are looking for a friend, all you need to do is be open.
2. Starting a conversation: This is the Achilles heel of an introvert. Suppose, you found a secluded place in the corner of the mess, you have your earphones plugged in and solitary savouring your meal that’s when your batch mate walks in with a plate and sits in front of you. Its a dilemma, to start a chat or not? And if you start, then how? Don’t worry, I have got you covered. People love to talk about themselves- it’s a science. A study shows that humans devote 30-40% of their speech output solely to inform others of their subjective experience. So why not start a conversation on their favourite topic- themselves and witness those treacherous conversation become a cakewalk.
3. Find your crowd: You know you are a lone wolf but as Ned Stark once said, “When the snows fall and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies, but the pack survives”. You need to find your tribe; they would be the support system for these two crucial years of your life. Choose wisely.
4. Be confident: Be confident and have trust in the soft skills you are born with. While your extroverted peers would be great at making first impressions, it would be you who would make much more lasting and meaningful connections without even trying.
5. Find your space: Explore the campus and find yourself a haven. For introvert long hours of social interaction could be very draining, so look for empty places outside the radar of regular people to recharge your batteries and get ready for the next day.
On an ending note, introversion is neither a problem nor is it power, it is just a state of being. Be confident and don’t lose yourself.
Comments