Dating can be great. I know that should sound obvious, but it can be tough for a kid who doesn’t exactly consider his/herself a people person. Now this may sound contradictory, but introverts do, in fact, enjoy other people’s company. That said, when dating an introvert, you need to keep a few things in mind in order to make it work.
We all want to find love, it’s just a little different for some people. Learning these lessons can help you in the long run as well because empathy is key to any healthy relationship.
Me Time
A general misconception about introverts is that they hate any and all forms of human interaction. This is patently false and a gross oversimplification. In reality, most introverts do enjoy parties and social gatherings, just not all the time. Think of it like a battery; constant interaction and people around charge extroverts. Introverts, on the other hand, can enjoy parties, but recharge during their alone times.
To put it simply, we introverts greatly value our alone time. Whatever we do with it, whether it’s reading, binge watching or listening to music, we need time alone to relax and reflect.
Now, as someone who wants to date an introvert, you need to understand that the need for alone time has nothing to do with you. Do not take it personally when your significant other wants a quiet night alone. They don’t hate you, they just want some time to chill. As a good significant other, try to understand and accommodate that need.
Ms./Mr. Independent
In a similar vein, don’t be surprised if an introvert doesn’t always come running for help. One of the benefits of the loner lifestyle is that we quickly learn to be independent and rather resourceful. We like handling our own business and rarely reach out for help, sometimes to a fault.
Again, don’t hold it against us when we don’t always share our problems. Be patient, we’re not hiding anything, we’re just better at doing it ourselves.
Give it Time
Lastly, patience is key. This is true with almost any relationship, especially when dating an introvert. At our core, we are deep and thoughtful. We have to be given time alone with our thoughts and trust is very big with us. It takes a lot to let people into our world, so give it time. It’s not like a little work ever hurt anybody, right?
