by Kyla Cruz
There once was a time when I found myself elated to be in the same room as multiple people, having discussions, playing video games, and just, you know, basking in the enjoyment of hanging around likeminded folks. It got to a point where I spent every other day with these people and on other days, I longed for them—their company. Now, I’ve outgrown that past version of myself and if this sounds familiar, keep reading.
WHAT IS AN INTROVERT?
Introverts require fewer stimuli, reflect in the quiet, and prefer one on one friendships. Extroverts, on the other hand, may enjoy more stimulation and can boost dopamine by reflecting outwardly when processing feelings, spending time with others, and meeting new people in large groups.
Which one are you? Maybe you’re like me and started off one way then grew to be different. There is nothing wrong with that, except now, we find ourselves lonelier than ever wondering what can we do to pass the time and enjoy making new memories solo.
Social hobbies for introverts do not have to mean only going out with a group of men and women, it can be solo dating or traveling and meeting new people while you’re out. You can still enjoy the company of someone else, get your dopamine hit, and leave. You’re not obligated to anyone in those scenarios and it’s a great feeling, trust me.
How does this look in relationships? I want to touch on this quickly because someone emailed me with a question—that is what promoted me to work on this article—and she asked, “My boyfriend is often off in his own world, doesn’t ask me questions about myself or likes to take me out on dates anymore.
When I asked him why, he said it is because he is introverted.” To my dear friend, this is not what an introvert looks like, that is a man who is simply not interested. But for more on that, check out the article from Danielle, ‘How to Date an Introvert’.
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Now that you know what it means to be introverted, whether you’re single or not, let’s take a look at some of the hobbies you can get into:
SOLO TRAVEL BLOG
Taking on traveling as a hobby does not mean reaching into your pockets and spending your hard-earned money to catch flights and travel around the world. No, this can also look like visiting new restaurants and museums relative to those places you’d like to travel to. For example, let’s say you’d like to travel to Italy or enjoy the culture.
Why not visit an Italian restaurant near you and experience an unfamiliar dish? While you're at it, consider immersing yourself further in the culture by starting to learn the Italian language with resources like the Intrepid Guide. This is a great way to try something new, blog about it, and who knows, over time you will see people leaving comments and sharing their stories. Thus, creating an online community that you do not have to be obligated to. You respond when it feels right.
CREATE A GROUP
Depending on who you are you can create a social group, whether that’s using FeetFinder, Ah!Fare or Facebook. Although with the former you can earn revenue while interacting on your own time and at your own pace. So technically it’s a win-win. I think that option is a great way to go. You can create groups that discuss just about anything, from how to make money online to the best books to read for the summer. Either way, you’re interacting and your social meter is getting its daily dose of dopamine.
CROCHET
No, crocheting is not just for the elderly, many young men and women have begun picking up this hobby, and the better they get at it, they start to earn money. You can create a shop on places like Etsy, Ah!Fare or again, FeetFinder. Think of this as a way to expand your wallet and your social circle. Plus, you can save money on shopping and buying clothes every month.
LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE
Learning a new language can be both time-consuming and fun! Research shows that cooperative language learning is the most effective way to learn a new language and with YouTube, you can start today at no cost. Practice the basics and attend workshops.
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YOGA/DANCE CLASS
Yes, I know this is not ideal when you’re an introvert, but guess what? It’s an amazing way to boost your confidence, self-esteem, and overall mood. When we look good, we feel good. That’s the reality of the situation. Yoga is a welcoming activity with free-spirited communities where you can connect and learn new skills.
HIKING
Nothing beats the outdoors, believe me! I love going for a good hike either by myself or with a family member I know and trust. In those moments sometimes if you’re both just walking you may fall silent, but make no mistake this is not a bad thing. Aside from hiking, if you’re a fan of the ocean, consider diving once or twice with professional supervision.
COMMUNITY GARDENING
Gardening can be fulfilling but costly. However, you can start small and get your hands dirty and learn how to start an organic garden from scratch. Not only will you feel better but you’ll start to glow. Some benefits of growing your garden include:
Fostering a Connection With Nature
Better Taste
Learning New Opportunities
Reduces Carbon Emissions
Provides Better Nutrition
When you’re an introvert, you can fulfill yourself in many ways. Do not allow yourself to get caught up with terms, though. Believe in yourself and your ability to create your dream life using the tools you have in front of you. This is your journey, no one else's, so take all the time you need to acclimatize to whatever hobby you choose, and remember, consistency is key.
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