An introvert’s energy is a precious and limited resource. We are quickly drained by activities that extroverts can’t seem to get enough of. Crowds, loud noises, and group interaction can be very overwhelming for introverts, who are usually also highly sensitive.

In order to protect our introvert energy, we must be diligent about keeping our life as streamlined as possible, while also choosing our commitments and relationships wisely.

If you are an introvert who feels exhausted and overwhelmed on a regular basis, read on to discover my top tips for optimizing your introvert energy.

Streamline your life

Introverts tend to excel in environments that offer room for quiet time, personal space and reflection. A life that is cluttered with too many useless obligations, and energy-sucking relationships will quickly exhaust your introvert energy.

Take a moment to write down all the people, places and obligations in your life that make you feel drained and overwhelmed. Your list might include friends who you’ve outgrown, or never truly connected with in the first place; social obligations that you dread; a romantic partner who sucks the life out of you; and a work environment that is too crowded or fast-paced.

Now, make a list of all the people, places and obligations in your life that make you feel happy and energized. This list might include time in nature, or with close friends who understand you. It might also include activities like jogging, reading or journalling.

Which list is longer? If it’s the first one, it’s time to start editing out as many of those energy-suckers as possible and start replacing them with the things that energize you. This can be easier said than done. A lot of introverts are in the habit of denying their true desires and innate needs in order to do what society tells us we should do. But, as famous introvert author, and blogger Chris Guillebeau says:

“You don’t have to live your life the way other people expect you to.”

It’s such a simple concept, and yet, many introverts really struggle with the idea that they can be the masters and creators of their own life.

Do shorter bursts of socializing

Managing your social obligations wisely is one of the best ways to protect your introvert energy. Most introverts are quickly drained by social activities that involve a lot of interaction. This doesn’t mean that we dislike socializing, but it does mean that we need to be really diligent about how much time we devote to it.

A great way to optimize your introvert energy is to simply do shorter bursts of social activity. If you’re like me, you probably start to feel really exhausted and kinda cranky after a certain time period of socializing. The timeframe could be thirty minutes or three hours. The key is to know how much social interaction you can enjoy before feeling depleted.

Resist the temptation to stay longer or commit to more time just because other people tell you that you must. People might say that you are a party-pooper, or you’re being boring. Ignore them. When you are protective of your time and energy, you will be more present and engaged when you do socialize.

Find your people

It can be really tempting for introverts to simply accept the friendships that fall into our lap. It might seem scary to open yourself up and  cultivate new friendships with people who belong to your tribe.

Your tribe consists of people who share your core beliefs and worldview.  In other words, they ‘get’ you. An introvert’s tribe might be smaller than an extrovert’s, but it still offers great benefits.

The people in your tribe will energize you. Socializing with them is far easier and less draining because you don’t have to waste time explaining yourself to them. They understand you. They accept you. And you joyfully reciprocate.

*Quick tip for finding your tribe: Get really crystal clear on who you are and what you want. Figure out your big why in life.

“Clarify your purpose. What is the why behind everything you do? When we know this in life or design it is very empowering and the path is clear.” ~ Jack Canfield

How do you protect and restore your introvert energy? Have you found your tribe yet?

Lot of love,