#introvertguy

First of all, I want to say Happy Holidays to all introverts out there. May you enjoy your holiday feast, hot chocolate and the new Season of the tv series you just downloaded. 😅

Without further ado, here is my guide to not be affected by your family's holiday rush and cheer 😛

1. Recognize that there's nothing wrong with what you feel.

If you feel like you don't care, then it's totally okay. That's what identifies us from the noisy world. If you don't feel like buying gifts, or helping in the cooking then so be it.

2. Don't try so hard to socialize with the arriving relatives.

Pacing is important. Act like your normal self. If the conversation is over then it's over and walk away.

3. Stay in areas where you are comfortable being alone.

4. Learn four or five social questions that you can get other people talking about to alleviate yourself of the pressure to communicate. My favorites:

(a) “What kind of work do you do?” or “So, how do you keep yourself busy?” Followed quickly by “How do you see your field changing?” If there is one thing that is constant it is change, and everyone’s role is changing, even stay-at-home parents and retired people.

(b) “How did you meet …?” This can be the host of the party, the person’s date, or partner, etc.

(c) If you have an idea who will be at the party, prepare by thinking of conversation starters. For example, I know that my husband’s boss had a baby this year, and that he has an older son. My plan at this year’s holiday party is to ask, “So how is your oldest son liking his role as big brother?