I used to stress out every time there would be a gathering at my place, or whenever a group of friends’ friends organized a massive BBQ and everyone was going.
The thing was, I realized, I didn’t have to go. Sure, my friends were going to be there, but I can easily excuse myself earlier and all would be well.
I forgot to mention, I used to have social anxiety, which made me miserable around people.
As an ambivert (part introvert and part extrovert), while I didn’t mind social events, I just as same didn’t mind being by myself. So that left me on neutral grounds. Most of my decisions were then deflected to these questions:
‘Who else is going to be there?’ and
‘Do I really have the time to go there?’ and
‘Do I have something to wear for this event?’
Once I had the answers, it made it easier to schedule my time and work around with what I had left to finish of my pending chores.
So how to Party like an Ambivert?:
- You know who your friends are. And you also know which of those friends you are most comfortable with. It’s highly likely that they will be similar to you in terms of personality. Hanging out with them during social events, will give a sense of security to your introvert-side, while your extrovert-side still has fun.
- You don’t have to go to each and every single party or Happy-Hour you are invited to. Pick out the places that you like to visit or is convenient for you. This way, it’s easier when you need some quiet-time from all the socializing. But hey, if you want to be a party-animal; by all means, who’s stopping you.
But what to do when you are at a work-related event?
How to Network like an Ambivert?
- For a Seminar or conference, you might be able to find out who is attending. Look them up and connect with them via online platforms beforehand, then re-introduce yourself at the event.
- Observe the audience. You are not the only one who doesn’t know anyone or is feeling out of place. Narrow down to couple of people you might be interested in talking to, they might be of the same industry or might have mutual connection with you.
- Small talk is ugh, probably avoidable, because it may make you awkward. Instead start with some industry news you read recently, or better yet, discuss the topic of the event itself.
- Don’t push yourself, you don’t have to meet everyone. Quality over quantity.
Hope this helps! Happy Partying!
🙂 FTK
Photo via Visual Hunt .com
