Some people love social interactions, while others prefer to spend time on their own. But no matter if you are an extrovert or an introvert, sometimes you will face challenges and mental pressures that may affect your well-being. That’s why you need to know how to take care of your energy and mental health, no matter your personality type.
If you feel that your lifestyle is not balanced, some adjustments can help you to achieve a better sense of balance and well-being. For example, try to replace an overwhelmingly busy agenda with practices that help you heal emotional wounds, and try to incorporate mindfulness into your life. So, let’s talk about what it means to be an introvert or an extrovert and discover new tips on how to stay energised and mentally healthy no matter the circumstances.
Are you an Introvert?
An introvert is someone who prefers peace and quiet to loud and crowded environments. If you recognise yourself as this, you may also find that spending time alone or with a few close friends is more pleasant than spending time with a large group. You probably also prefer to concentrate on your own thoughts and feelings rather than seek external stimulation. Some of the challenges you may face are feelings of loneliness, isolation, or social anxiety. Therefore, it’s crucial to strike a balance between your social and personal life. Here are some self-care techniques that might work for you:
∙ Recharge your social batteries
Give yourself the time you need time to rest and recharge on your own when you feel like it. A stroll in nature can help you feel mentally balanced and refreshed.
Or, why not become a tourist in your own city? Explore new neighbourhoods, discover historical buildings, and visit museums.
Don’t forget about yoga, pilates, journalling, meditation, and sports that you can perform on your own or with close friends.
∙ Allow yourself some quiet time
Participate in social events, parties, festivals, and meetings for as long as it feels pleasant and comfortable. Take a break from activities that you find exhausting when you feel your energy levels are dropping. Gardening, reading a book, or watching your favourite tv show are fun alternatives that you can do on your own.
∙ Create and respect your personal boundaries
Making new friends and getting to know new people is good for you, but when you need emotional support don’t hesitate to talk to your close, trusted friends who can truly understand your nature.
Also, feel free to refuse invitations that don’t interest you, and avoid investing your energy in connections which consume you.
∙ Relax with your hobbies
Spend time pursuing your old hobbies or taking on new ones. Whether it’s a DIY project, playing an instrument, or dancing, this type of activities will keep you occupied and develop your creativity without making you feel emotionally tired.
Are you an Extrovert?
You may be an extrovert if you enjoy being around others and if you usually seek social interaction. Plus, you usually have a flamboyant lifestyle. You may also feel easily bored when you are alone or with nothing to do and seek new and stimulating experiences. Expressing thoughts and feelings? Not a problem for you!
If you feel these characteristics describe you, then you might sometimes also deal with overstimulation, emotional tiredness, and even burnout. So, take care of your energy and mental health by following these tips:
∙ Join groups of like-minded people
Physical activities are great for anyone. As an extrovert, you might feel more motivated to do sport together with other people. Why not join a gym, a group, or organisation or take part in group activities? Look for activities that suit you best, whether it’s biking, hiking, jogging, dancing, group meditation, yoga sessions, or volunteering for a social cause.
∙ Go out with your friends
Organise a get-together with your friends! You will surely enjoy calling them and catching up, and you can plan the outing together. Go out for a walk in nature, in the park, or in the historic part of town. Check out the latest restaurants and cafes together. Enjoy a relaxing day at the swimming pool. Discover new places around the city, like villages, resorts, nature reservations, or adventure parks.
∙ Organise a get-together at home
If you don’t feel like going out, or if the weather doesn’t allow it, invite friends over for a meal or a movie night! You can cook together, or everyone can bring something. Why not also try board games or video games?
∙ Prioritise and stick to your plans
Sometimes you might feel tempted to take part in too many activities and this might cause you to feel emotionally and physically drained. Try to prioritise activities, invitations, and events – don’t make your agenda too full.
Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, understanding your unique needs will help you practise self-care and achieve balance and well-being.
