Stop Struggling to Socialize & Start the Conversation
7 conversation starters perfect for helping any introvert break the ice!
When someone says, “I’m an Introvert”, most people think they mean they’re a person who prefers to be alone or quiet. Not quite true! An introvert may like quiet environments but that is only one aspect of them. According to WebMD, “Being an Introvert is much more than a personality trait”. It can seem as if one's claims of introversion are an excuse to back out of social events. THEY ARE NOT! Introversion is truly how one’s brain perceives the world around them as they are living and engaging with others.
DID YOU KNOW?
Most introverts struggle with building or expanding their network!
Let’s face it! Introverts are not likely to choose to be the center of attention! They process information deeply so much to the point they draw a blank or appear aloof in public settings! Social responses such as these often make introverts act similar to a tortoise. Retreating to their shells when they are overwhelmed or surrounding by heightened energies. They feel safer observing the world from their shell rather than participating in social settings.
Socially, this translates as disinterested and disengaged, yet this is furthest from the truth. Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not snobbish and do not choose to spend their time loathing others. Honestly, introverts don’t have the energy to socialize with others for long periods of time. Extended periods of socializing in new settings can cause anxiety or heighten stress!
WHAT YOU GONNA DO, INTROVERT? DON’T TURN INTO THE OLD LADY WHO LIVED IN A SHOE!
Introverts often have so many tabs open in their mind they merely don’t have the energy or mental capacity to socialize with others. Communicating for an introvert can be overwhelming and energetically taxing. Especially, if a person is asking a series of questions, that really leads to no end.
Many introverts don’t realize they are disengaged until the person they are talking to asks a question that they have no response to. Usually embarrassed by this characteristic flaw of aloofness introverts tend to avoid conversation or communicating completely.
Please don’t do that!
The fact is communication is an essential part of a healthy daily routine. The way introverts choose to communicate affects their quality of living. Interacting with others is vital to our beings, even the most introverted individual still wants to have someone who understands them and to talk to. Yet, introverts would rather avoid the anxiety or draining feeling they get after socializing. Formulating and visioning social settings prior to engaging can help alleviate the stressors of maintaining an interesting conversation.
Introvert, You’ve Got Brillant Ideas!
Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D. Certified Speaking Professional and Author of “The Introverts Guide to Making a Difference”, called introverts “Quiet Influencers”, arguing that people who think more and talk less often have the best ideas.
Kahnweiler encourages introverts to use their natural strengths versus imitating or taking on a persona that does not align with their core values.
There is more than one way to work in a room and to skin a cat! Don’t let the fear of awkwardness quiet you at your next social outing. You’ve got something to say and it’s good information! Trust me, you’re a reliable source.
The key to overcoming self-doubt is by focusing on what you can improve for tomorrow rather than focusing on what you didn’t do right today!
Stop Struggling, Start The Conversation
As overwhelming as it seems introverts can socialize! Here are 7 Conversation Starters to help introverts lead a conversation and not be consumed by it.
- Family First! Introvert or Extrovert, everyone loves talking about their family. Break the ice by inquiring about a person’s children (spouse), pets, parents, and in-laws. You’re sure to get a conversation started! Be sure to share about your family too! You don't want to begin to feel overwhelmed by only asking questions and listening to someone else talk about their life.
- Talk about What's happening?! Current Events are always a good lead when socializing. Keep it neutral when directly speaking of politics, yet current events are a wonderful kick-start to a conversation. What's new in the news?
- Talk about Free Time! It’s not as if many people have much of it these days. Asking about what a person likes to do in their free time can help you find people you have hobbies in common with. Giving you another aspect to connect over conversations with others.
- Favorite quotes! A more stimulating starter, this ice breaker is sure to keep your attention and educate you along the way. It's not common for people to share the same favorite quote. It is a wonderful way to share and learn while you socialize.
- Favorite Food! Everyone has a favorite food, even introverts! Talk about your favorite appetizer or comfort food. You may just snag a new friend and a recipe.
- Five-Year Plan! Asking a person about their goals or five-year plan is a great way of learning if someone is aligned with the career path you’re on! This is a perfect way of sharing your upcoming business or career goals with others.
- A good read! If you’re an introvert, you’ve most likely finished a book in the past 90 days! Talk about it! Asking a person if they’re familiar with an author or the last book they’ve enjoyed is a great way to strike a conversation.
Stand out and Stay engage in your next conversation! Don’t wait for that interesting person to break the ice! If you see someone you want to know, trust your gut and start the conversation! Are you an Introvert looking to build a better, bigger network? Check out this article!
https://link.medium.com/mPDiP227web