As an introvert, you may have found yourself feeling misunderstood by your more outgoing extroverted friends. It’s not that extroverts are bad people or incapable of understanding introverts, but it’s important to acknowledge that there are certain things about introverts that extroverts just don’t quite get. Here are five things that may help explain what it’s like to be an introvert:

1. We Need Alone Time to Recharge

One of the biggest differences between introverts and extroverts is that introverts need alone time to recharge their batteries. Being around people, even those we love and enjoy spending time with, can be draining for introverts. We need time to ourselves to rest and recharge so we can be our best selves when we’re around others.

Extroverts, on the other hand, tend to feel energized by being around people. They may not understand why we need to be alone so much, and may even take it as a sign that we don’t like them or don’t want to be around them. It’s important to explain to extroverted friends that it’s not personal, we just need some alone time to recharge.

2. Small Talk Isn’t Our Thing

Another thing that extroverts may not understand about introverts is that we don’t enjoy small talk. For us, it can feel like a waste of time and energy. We’d much rather have deeper conversations that really get to know someone on a personal level.

Extroverts, on the other hand, tend to love small talk. They may not understand why we don’t want to chat about the weather or our weekend plans. But for introverts, these types of conversations can feel superficial and unfulfilling.

3. We’re Not Unfriendly, We’re Just Quiet

Introverts often get a bad rap for being unfriendly or standoffish. But the truth is, we’re just quiet. We may not be the life of the party, but that doesn’t mean we don’t like people or enjoy socializing.

Extroverts may not understand why we don’t talk as much or why we seem aloof. But it’s important to explain to them that we’re just more reserved and prefer to listen rather than talk.

4. We Don’t Need Constant Stimulation

Another thing that extroverts may not get about introverts is that we don’t need constant stimulation. We’re perfectly happy spending time alone, reading a book or watching a movie.

Extroverts, on the other hand, may feel bored or restless when they’re not doing something or hanging out with others. They may not understand why we don’t need constant activity or stimulation to be happy.

5. We Value Deep Connections

Finally, one thing that extroverts may not understand about introverts is that we value deep connections. We may not have a ton of friends, but the ones we do have are very important to us.

Extroverts may have a lot of friends, but they may not understand why we don’t have as many. For introverts, it’s all about quality over quantity when it comes to friendships.

Being an introvert can be hard in a world that often values extroverted qualities. But by explaining these five things to our extroverted friends, we can help them better understand us and appreciate our unique qualities. Introverts and extroverts can coexist and even thrive together, as long as we take the time to understand and appreciate each other’s differences.