The true introvert isn’t really “shy”- Shy would imply that you WANT social interaction but you’re afraid of rejection or appearing like a fool. An introvert just cares to be left alone. “How” can you be left alone when you’re surrounded by those annoying, friendly, outgoing extraverts? Stick with me kid and you’ll live a wonderful life of seclusion (until you’re ready to interact on your own terms).
1. Handheld devices were created by nerds. Nerds are introverted. Nerds are our friends. I am nerd. Maybe you are nerd. If you are, *we* are nerd.
iPods and smart phones are perfecto for hiding away from the world. Maybe you’re talking to someone, texting your BFF, maybe you’re listening to music, perhaps you are watching a Youtube video- no one knows and very few people care to pry if they see a headset, notice you’re frantically typing on the mini-keypad or there’s a phone held up to your ear. You can have it turned off and no one will call you on it, unless they’re a jerk.
2. The book. It’s cliche but if you’re walking around with a book, you have a license to glare at and yell at anyone who speaks to you.
Them: Oh what are you reading?
You: Nothing now since you took me out of my read. Thanks a lot asshole. (they will now avoid you for the rest of the week if not forever)
More than likely you will be left alone, but people are stupid and nosey when they see a book cover. “Oooh visual!”
3. The acknowledged nod when you see someone. This works because it’s not opening yourself up to conversation, but it does make you appear friendly. People will notice that you did acknowledge them and all they really want in life is validation for their existence.
4. Once in awhile do the pained ‘toothache’. Wince and hold your jawline as you walk past someone who is normally a chatterbox. They’ll probably ask the obvious “Ouch, toothache?” Give a pained mummer of a response “Mmm huh.” and the continue on with your day.
5. A cough sneeze will keep people at bay. Practice… it can save you from awkwardly boring conversations.
6. Set an alarm on your smartphone to go off every ten minutes. This way if you do get roped off into a conversation, the alarm will snap you out of it, “Oh damn, I’m late for an appointment/meeting/urination.”
Feel free to add what has worked for you.
Just being myself helps a lot to drive people away. It also has helped me to not try to limit what I say. If I don’t say much, people will try to draw me out; but if I just keep talking and honestly express my thoughts and interests, people will soon cover their ears and start clawing the walls trying to escape further conversation.