Stress Tips for Introverts and Extroverts
We all deal with stress differently and this is partially because of our different personality traits. People usually fall into one of two categories: introvert or extrovert, and fortunately, there are plenty of specialized stress tips for introverts or stress tips for extroverts.
Are you an introvert or extrovert?
In the field of psychology, introversion and extroversion is determined by how an individual spends and recharges their energy. Extroverts find inner peace when they are around others, such as a large group of friends, and they loose energy when they spend too much time on their own. Introverts, on the other hand, relax when they’re alone. Their energy is usually drained after spending too much time around others, especially large crowds.
Are you unsure which category you fall into? There are plenty of introvert/extrovert tests you can take. Once you’re determined which category bests suits you, check out these stress relief tips.
Stress Tips for Extroverts
- Participate in a social activity. Sometimes getting away from your problems can help relieve stress and social events or activities provide the perfect opportunity for stressed extroverts. Attending concerts or parties, joining a community sport team, or going on an outing with friends are fun ways to relieve stress. Laughing with others and getting exercise will help you feel better.
- Establish a strong support group. When extroverts are under duress they tend to relax when they engage with others; so, having a helpful social network is a great stress reducer. As an extrovert, consider unwinding after a hard day at work by talking to a spouse/partner or if you’re experiencing anxiety at work, send a text to a supportive friend.
- Get advice. When extroverts experience anxiety they not only need someone to talk to, they also want helpful advice. Speaking to a spiritual advisor, financial consultant, or a personal counselor about your specific problems can help reduce your stress levels. Their advice will also be handy for any future stressful situations.
Stress Tips for Introverts
- Prep beforehand. For introverts, preparation can help with stress. If you know you will have a particularly stressful day, take time to prepare. Before the event or task, spend some quiet time alone to boost your energy. Also spend some time coming up with coping strategies. For instance, if you’re stressed about a staff meeting, prepare by bringing a warm cup of tea to keep you calm.
- Take a break. Unlike with extroverts, introverts feel stressed when they are around others for a long period of time, especially large crowds. One way to avoid this stress is by taking little breaks in order to recoup. For instance, if you’re feeling overwhelmed at a large party, take a five-minute break outside to replenish your energy.
- Focus on your strengths. Many introverts are reflective and they connect to their environment on a more intimate level. Fortunately, these traits can be useful when reducing stress. Having a moment of reflection and meditation can help lower stress. Taking time to connect with your environment, with your five senses, can also help reduce anxiety.
Do you fall somewhere in the middle of extrovert and introvert? You may be ambivert, the best of both worlds. For those in the middle, consider using tips from both categories.