Dinner Parties Are For Introverts Too
More often than not the word party is not synonymous with introversion. In fact, many people would assume that introverts would much rather hide from the world at home alone when in reality that isn’t always the case.
Introverts simply prefer to limit the amount of time they spend socializing. Being an introvert, however, shouldn’t exclude you from participating in or even hosting a holiday party -- especially if you’d really like to.
Here are some ways to help you navigate hosting and celebrating this holiday season as an introvert.
Setting boundaries is good for everyone, but for introverts, it helps them mentally and emotionally prepare for what is ahead. If you are hosting, ensure invitations have the proper start and end time according to your ability to handle socializing. Then think about the party’s structure and create a schedule to ensure you know what is happening next and reduce any possible anxiety.
As a host of a dinner party, having a comprehensive understanding of the group of people you are putting around a table is important, there’s room for everyone, and the more diversity in personalities the better. The reason being is everyone can feel comfortable to be themselves without having to pretend to be something they are not. This doesn’t mean you can’t invite a new neighbor you barely know, it just means that having a good balance between knowing what personalities to expect with unexpected ones is a good idea.
Comparison is the thief of joy, even in this situation. Don’t try to be someone you are not.
Just because your friends thrive in social gatherings and feel energized by them doesn’t mean you have to be.
If you know you are hosting an event or planning to attend one, clear your calendar for some alone time to energize. It’s about managing your energy and recognizing in yourself when you’re starting to get overextended and drained
Talk to your best friend about co-hosting with you. If you need to take a break and step out to grab some air, have someone ready to take your place as the host. This can help clear your head and re-energize you a bit. In addition, if this is a formal dinner party, sit near an exit for minimal distraction and attention.
When attending a gathering or dinner party as an introvert these same concepts can be applied to help you navigate having a good time, choose wisely where you want to spend your energy and only commit to the gatherings that are truly meaningful to you. If the host is a friend, chances are they care about you and will accept your decision to not attend with empathy. If the host is not a close friend a polite rejection to the invite should be more plenty.
To wrap it all up just remember that you do not have to be the life of the party, and you have no obligation to entertain anyone. Sit by people who can party at your pace, have enough conversation with you and not draw unwanted attention. Remember, everyone is different, and every introvert and extrovert are different so make sure you are listening to your body and emotions.
“Comparison is the thief of joy, even in this situation. Don’t try to be someone you are not.”