How introverts can prepare emotionally for offices reopening
Harvey Deutschendorf, Fast Company
There is a misconception that introverts are cold, shy, and socially awkward. That’s just not true. Introverts often do enjoy being around people, but prefer small groups of people, rather than large crowds. For introverts who are dreading a return to in-person meetings, conferences, or other office duties, here’s how to prepare.
Practice self-care
When moving back into situations that are stressful, it’s crucial to set aside adequate time to recharge and regenerate. Introverts need to reach out to support systems they have already established. It might mean exercise, meditating or other activities one finds regenerating.
Ask for what you need
In the Western world, extroversion is often regarded as the norm for success. Introverts may feel uncomfortable asking for what they need—whether that’s a hybrid work schedule, a quieter workspace, or time during the workday that’s reserved for quiet, individual work. Having a frank conversation with your manager about how you work best can go a long way to quell nerves about a return to the office, and ensure you have time to recharge.
Gradually expose yourself to new situations
Slowly exposing yourself to new situations before the actual event will help ease the transition. Perhaps you can go in to the office during a quiet time in order to get re-acclimated. Or maybe you could start by going in one or two days per week. Laying this groundwork may be helpful in alleviating the stress when the day comes when you have to return to work full-time.
Reach out to others for support
As an introvert, you may feel that you are alone and everyone else is more extroverted than you. However, a survey by Myers-Briggs discovered that 50.7% of the U.S. population is introverted and 49.3% is extroverted. That means that half of the people you work with are likely in the same situation as you. This is a group that understands what you are going through–meaning you can reach out to them for support.