Contrary to popular belief, we introverts do enjoy socializing. We have our playmates and our passions just as extroverts do. Some of us like to dance. Some of us like to drink. Some of us like to flirt, and laugh, and chase sunsets. Some of us have a habit of cramming all of the above into one day.

And then, of course, we pay.

That’s exactly how I felt recently after a weekend of excessive socializing.

The social binge and plunge

Since I hate the cold, Canadian winters force me into hibernation. Admittedly, it is a welcome hibernation after all the excitement and activity the summer months bring.

Lately, the weather has been heating up. And so has my social life. I’ve been relishing the recent string of sunny days – biking for hours, salsa dancing, getting together with my favorite friends, who are also happily emerging from months of holing up.

Last weekend, I went on a social binge. I eagerly drank up sun-filled activities, like long walks by the ocean, paddle boarding (for the first time) https://www.globosurfer.com/best-beginner-stand-paddle-boards/, and picnics. Then I danced the night away. Even though many of the activities were ‘innie friendly’, by Sunday night, I was ready to crawl into my cave again.

I had a social hangover.

That’s me paddle boarding into the sunset. 😉

What is a social hangover?

A social hangover is the feeling of utter depletion an introvert experiences after too much socializing. Symptoms include grouchiness, exhaustion and difficulty concentrating.

Your body and mind feel heavy and slow. You don’t want to talk to anyone. You just want to close the door and be alone for a while. Not for too long – just until the season turns, or reality TV goes out of style.

Sound familiar?

The symptoms of a social hangover are almost identical to the signs that you are about to self-destruct. The cure is the same, too. Sweet solitude is the ultimate salve at this point. But what you do in that solitude makes all the difference. Allow me to explain.

Activities to cure a social hangover

You see, not all quiet activities are created equal. Some have rejuvenating power, while others only drain you more.

In his book The Awakened Introvert, Dr. Arnie Kozak talks about the three levels of activity: goal directed, non-goal-directed, and contemplative. He explains how these different activities impact your mental state.

Spoiler alert: Going on social media, and answering emails are not the best ways to recover from a social hangover.

Dr. Kozak and I discuss the three levels of activity, and which ones have to most rejuvenating power, during our video interview.

During the interview, you’ll discover:

• How to understand and optimize your introvert brain
• Dr. Kozak’s QUIET technique for calming your mind in an instant
• Specific activities for better introvert brain function
• A simple everyday mindfulness practice to master your thoughts

Enjoy!

Xo,