Can an Introvert Become More Extroverted?
I’ve always identified as an introvert throughout high school. I have a tight-knit group of friends and maintain good grades, so I thought being introverted was perfectly fine. However, I’ve come to realize that in many aspects of life, especially in order to succeed, strong conversational and public speaking skills are essential—traits often associated with extroversion.
Is it possible for me to change this? I notice that when I speak with teachers, mentors, or anyone in a position of authority, I tend to be overly agreeable and just go along with what they say. Should I try to express my opinions more strongly in those situations, even if I’m not particularly close to them?
I feel comfortable chatting with guys like me, but I get really awkward when it comes to talking to teachers or girls. I worry about coming off as strange or awkward—am I overthinking this, or is it a genuine concern? Do I just need to practice more? Also, is it considered weird if I approach a girl I’m not super familiar with just to have a conversation?
It’s great that you’re reflecting on your social skills and considering ways to grow! Being an introvert doesn’t mean you can’t develop extroverted traits or skills. Many people find that with practice and intentional effort, they can become more comfortable in social situations.
Practice Makes Perfect: Just like any other skill, conversational skills improve with practice. Start small by initiating conversations with classmates or teachers about class topics or shared interests. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually extend this to more casual topics.
It’s Okay to Be Nice and Agreeable: It’s fine to be polite and agree with others, but remember that sharing your opinions is valuable too. When you express your thoughts, it can lead to deeper conversations and help you feel more confident in your interactions.
Feeling Awkward is Normal: Many people feel awkward in various social settings, especially with those they don’t know well. It’s completely natural! Focusing on the conversation rather than your nerves can help. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that the other person likely feels nervous too sometimes.
Talking to Girls/Teachers: It’s perfectly fine to approach girls or teachers for conversation! Just be genuine and respectful. You might find that most people appreciate someone making an effort to connect.
Set Goals: Try setting small, achievable goals, like talking to someone new each week or expressing your opinion in class discussions. This can help push you out of your comfort zone while also building your confidence.
Overall, don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Change takes time, and being true to who you are is important. Embrace your introverted nature while also stepping outside your comfort zone. You got this!