If you do these 11 things, you’re definitely an introvert

Do you often feel like staying in when your friends are heading out? Or maybe you feel tired after a full day of talking and laughing at work?

If so, you might be an introvert.

Don’t worry, despite what you may have heard, it’s actually cool to be an introvert.

They’re often very thoughtful, able to look after themselves, and great at understanding other people’s feelings.

But how can you be sure you’re really an introvert?

Well, we’ve got 11 signs that could help you figure it out.

If these sound like you, then chances are you might be an introvert! 

1. You Enjoy Your Own Company

One of the biggest signs you’re an introvert is if you love spending time alone.

This doesn’t mean you’re a loner or that you don’t like people, far from it. It just means that you find joy in your own company.

Maybe you like curling up with a good book, watching your favorite movie, or just sitting quietly while sipping on some hot chocolate.

If these sound like your ideal ways to spend time, then this is a strong clue that you may be an introvert.

You see, introverts often recharge their energy by being alone and doing things they love, rather than being out and about with others.

So, if quiet solo activities are your cup of tea, welcome to the introvert club!

2. You Prefer Deep Conversations Over Small Talk

Does the idea of making small talk fill you with a sense of dread?

Do you find yourself zoning out when people chat about the weather or what they had for lunch?

If your answer is yes, then you might be an introvert.

Introverts typically prefer having meaningful, deep conversations about life, dreams, ideas, and experiences rather than engaging in small talk.

They find satisfaction in understanding the world and the people around them on a deeper level.

So, if you’re someone who craves meaningful discussions and gets bored with trivial chit-chat, you’re displaying another classic sign of being an introvert.

3. Large Crowds Drain Your Energy

I remember being at a huge music festival with my friends a few years back. The music was great, the food stalls were tempting, and everyone around me seemed to be having a blast.

But instead of feeling excited, I just felt tired and overwhelmed.

It wasn’t that I wasn’t having fun. It was just that being surrounded by so many people for such a long period was really draining for me.

By the end of it, all I wanted was to retreat to my quiet room and recharge.

And that’s another sign you might be an introvert: if large crowds or busy environments leave you feeling drained, rather than energized.

It’s not about not liking people or fun activities – it’s just that introverts often need some quiet time to recharge after being in a high-energy social situation.

4. You Often Find Yourself Lost in Thought

A fascinating fact about introverts is that they’re often deep thinkers. They have a rich inner world where they process their thoughts, ideas, and emotions.

If you find yourself daydreaming a lot, or getting lost in your own thoughts even when you’re in a crowd, this could be another sign that you’re an introvert.

According to research, introverts have more gray matter in the prefrontal cortex – a region of the brain associated with abstract thinking and decision-making.

So next time you find yourself lost in thought, remember – it’s not just daydreaming, it’s your brain flexing its muscles!

5. You Feel a Strong Connection with Nature

There’s something about the quiet rustle of leaves, the gentle flow of a river, or the majestic view from a mountaintop that speaks directly to an introvert’s soul.

If you feel a deep, heartfelt connection with nature and often seek its tranquillity to escape the noise of the outside world, then you might be an introvert.

Introverts often find solace in nature. The peace and quiet it provides allows them to recharge, think deeply, and connect with their inner selves.

It’s like nature speaks their language – the language of silence and serenity.

So if your perfect day involves a quiet walk in the woods over a bustling city tour, it’s quite possible that you’re an introvert at heart.

6. You’re a Great Listener

I’ve often noticed that when I’m in a group setting, I tend to listen more than I talk.

Friends come to me with their problems, not because I have all the answers, but because I’m willing to listen and understand.

They appreciate that I don’t interrupt and that I genuinely pay attention.

If you’re like me and often find yourself in the listener’s seat, nodding along, offering empathy and understanding more than chipping in with your own stories, then guess what?

You’re showing another classic sign of being an introvert.

Introverts are usually great listeners – they’re patient, understanding, and more interested in hearing what others have to say than dominating the conversation. 

7. You Need Time to Think Before You Speak

Have you ever been in a situation where everyone seems to be quick to voice their opinions, and you’re just sitting there, quietly processing your thoughts?

And then, by the time you’re ready to share your well-thought-out point, the conversation has already moved on?

Yeah, that’s a classic introvert moment right there. We tend to need a bit more time to process our thoughts and formulate our responses.

It’s not that we don’t have anything to say, it’s just that we want our words to be well-considered and meaningful. 

8. You Work Best Alone

If you find that your productivity skyrockets when you’re working alone, this could be another sign that you’re an introvert.

Introverts often prefer working on their own because it gives them the space to think and concentrate without distractions.

They perform better when they have some privacy and can control their interactions.

So if you find yourself loving those quiet moments of solo work, it’s probably your introverted nature shining through. 

9. You’re Selective About Your Friends

If I look at my circle of friends, it’s not large, but it’s incredibly meaningful. I’ve never been one to seek out a large group of acquaintances. Instead, I cherish a few close, deep friendships.

If you’re like me and you value quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, then welcome to another introvert trait.

Introverts often prefer a few deep connections to having a wide social network. They invest their time and energy into building meaningful relationships and are loyal and dedicated friends.

So if your friend list isn’t the longest, but is filled with deep, meaningful connections, you’re likely part of the introvert tribe. 

10. You Often Feel Misunderstood

Being an introvert in an extrovert-dominated world can be tough. You’re often misunderstood. People might label you as shy, antisocial, or aloof when that’s not the case at all.

You enjoy socializing, but you just prefer it in smaller, more manageable doses.

You might have felt the pressure to fit in, to be more outgoing, or talkative.

But here’s the thing – you don’t need to be. It’s absolutely okay to be quiet, reflective, and reserved.

Don’t let the world make you feel strange or out of place because you’re different. Embrace your introverted nature because it’s a part of who you are.

11. You Value Your Personal Space

Here’s the raw truth: if there’s one thing an introvert values, it’s their personal space.

That quiet corner in a café, your neatly organized desk, or your cozy bedroom – these are more than just physical spaces for you.

They’re your sanctuaries where you can retreat, recharge, and be yourself without any judgment or expectations.

Having that personal space invaded can feel uncomfortable and overwhelming for an introvert.

So if you’re someone who gets slightly irked when someone sits too close on an otherwise empty bus, or when people show up unannounced at your place, know that it’s just another sign of your introverted nature demanding its well-deserved space.

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Lachlan Brown

I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder, and editor of Hack Spirit. I love writing practical articles that help others live a mindful and better life. I have a graduate degree in Psychology and I’ve spent the last 15 years reading and studying all I can about human psychology and practical ways to hack our mindsets. Check out my latest book on the Hidden Secrets of Buddhism and How it Saved My Life. If you want to get in touch with me, hit me up on Facebook or Twitter.

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