Results of a recent study, published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, have proven that being socially active helps to prevent cognitive decline, protects memory and boost your physical and mental health.
Introverts focus inward – they focus into their own thoughts. Whereas extroverts focus outward, into the world. Most people are a little bit of both.
Too much socializing exhaust introverts and alone time is what is needed to recalibrate their balance. And, although introverts can love their own company, too much alone time is not good either as it can lead to loneliness.
Vancouver life coaching can help you re-centre and refocus. Here are 7 ways to increase your social active and improve your mental health.
Socialize with Like-Minded People
Choosing to spend time with other introverts in a small group will allow you to connect in a calm and reflective setting. Whether it be at a small gathering or part of an activity ( golf, bowling, gardening club.) You’ll get your social fix which will boost your energy not drain it.
Go on a Walk
Rather than committing to certain events which you might later regret, call up a friend to go on a walk in a nice park. This is a light, non-obtrusive plan that is easy to move on from should you begin feeling the need to distance yourself and go home.
Have a Phone Call
Sometimes, introverts will feel like socializing but not want to go out. A simple, old-fashioned phone call is the perfect way to interact with a friend without the commitment of making plans and being around a lot of people or in loud environments.
Meet Somewhere Quiet
Setting up a date in a quiet, peaceful setting will create a sense of safety and comfort rather than in a loud, chatty bar, cafe or nightclub which could elicit anxiety.
One-on-One
An introverts’ brain isn’t wired like that of an extrovert, who thrives off high-energy social settings. Introverts can get overstimulated by the noise and chaos of large group parties and gatherings. Hanging out one-on-one with a friend will allow an introvert’s mind to deeply focus his/her attention on the individual in front of them – something introverts excel at doing.
Be Socially Selective
Don’t commit to big plans far ahead of time. Don’t schedule too many events in a row.. A lot of the time, introverts will agree and commit to an invite then regret it when the day arrives. Try to take it easy and confirm with your friends closer to the date of the invite. This will take the pressure off and allow you to have the freedom of socializing when the day comes.
Quality Time vs. Frequent Contact
Extroverts love frequent contact and weekends full of socializing with their favourite people, even multiple days in a row. Introverts, however, text less, call less, and usually need much less contact with friends. A social plan once a week is enough, as they prefer quality contact over frequent contact.
Consciously keep these steps in mind whenever you are feeling the need to isolate yourself in your comfort cocoon. If you need guidance in your goal to finding a balance in your social life, get in touch with me to learn more about my Vancouver life coaching approach and the way I work.
